Mississippi Palisades State Park
Savanna, IL
Wooded bluffs and rock outcrops above the Mississippi River, with trails to overlooks across the water. Go in autumn for foliage, and wear sturdy shoes, since some paths are steep and rocky.
Mississippi Palisades State Park lies north of Savanna in Carroll County, near the confluence of the Apple River and the Mississippi. It covers about 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres) and is part of the Driftless Area of northwestern Illinois. The river bluffs and caves were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1972; the site has been a state park since 1973. The park administration lists hiking, camping, fishing, climbing and cross-country skiing as activities.
According to the administration, the hiking trails follow paths used nearly a thousand years ago. The highest point is at about 229 m (751 ft). Plan two to three hours for a hike to the overlooks; the area is especially beautiful in fall. Wear sturdy shoes, as trails can be steep and rocky. Maps of trails and campgrounds are available in a park brochure. Access is via Illinois Route 84. The park administration lists current closures on its website.
- Nearest town
- Savanna, IL
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 42.1356, -90.1486
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–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. Cold, short days in December–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- South Sabula Lake ParkCampsite6 mi from Mississippi Palisades State Park · 39 pitchesShowersToiletsWaste disposal
- Bellevue State Park Campground - Dyas UnitCampsite15 mi from Mississippi Palisades State Park · 44 pitchesShowers
- Riverview RV ParkMotorhome stopover16 mi from Mississippi Palisades State ParkMotorhomes
- Off Shore CampgroundMotorhome stopover18 mi from Mississippi Palisades State Park · 173 pitchesMotorhomesElectricity
- Spruce Creek Park CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Mississippi Palisades State Park · 85 pitchesTentsCaravansToiletsWaste disposal
- KOA HolidayMotorhome stopover23 mi from Mississippi Palisades State ParkMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposal
All campsites in Illinois · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Mississippi Palisades State Park?
Mississippi Palisades State Park is in Savanna, IL, at GPS 42.1356, -90.1486. It is about 16 mi from Bellevue.
Can you camp near Mississippi Palisades State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is South Sabula Lake Park, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 12 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Mississippi Palisades State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Galena Historic Downtown (24 mi), Maquoketa Caves State Park (32 mi), Fenelon Place Elevator (37 mi) and Field of Dreams Movie Site (53 mi).
When is the best time to visit Mississippi Palisades State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)