Giant City State Park
Makanda, IL
Huge sandstone blocks form “streets” in the forest, with a stone lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
- Nearest town
- Makanda, IL
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 37.6020, -89.1900
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. Hot in July. Cold, short days in January. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Little Grassy Campground & MarinaCampsite4 mi from Giant City State Park
- Crab Orchard CampgroundCampsite10 mi from Giant City State ParkTentsCaravans
- Trail of Tears CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Giant City State ParkToilets
- Turkey Ridge Tent CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Giant City State Park
- Deer Ridge CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Giant City State Park
- Pine Hills CampgroundCampsite14 mi from Giant City State ParkToilets
All campsites in Illinois · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Giant City State Park?
Giant City State Park is in Makanda, IL, at GPS 37.6020, -89.1900. It is about 9 mi from Carbondale.
Can you camp near Giant City State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Youth Campground, about 1 mi away; within 25 mi there are 35 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Giant City State Park?
Giant City State Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Shawnee National Forest: southern Illinois hills.
What is there to see near Giant City State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Bald Knob Cross of Peace (8 mi), Little Grand Canyon (12 mi), Superman Statue (40 mi) and Garden of the Gods (44 mi).
When is the best time to visit Giant City State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)