Fox Ridge State Park
Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.
ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.
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"Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/charleston-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys" name="description"/> <meta content="Fox, Ridge, State, Park, Charleston, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="39.4034"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-88.135696"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/charleston-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/charleston-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-CHARLESTON-IL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-CHARLESTON-IL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys" name="description"/> <meta content="Fox, Ridge, State, Park, Charleston, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="39.4034"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-88.135696"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/charleston-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Charleston</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-CHARLESTON-IL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-CHARLESTON-IL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Fox Ridge State Park - Charleston, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys" name="description"/> <meta content="Fox, Ridge, State, Park, Charleston, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Fox Ridge State Park"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="39.4034"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-88.135696"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Fox Ridge State Park</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>18175 State Park Rd</div> <div> <span>Charleston</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61920</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/FoxRidge.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 217-345-6416</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Fox+Ridge+State+Park%2C+18175+State+Park+Rd%2C+Charleston%2C+IL+61920" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p style="text-align: left;">Fox Ridge State Park, a 2,064-acre park just south of Charleston in east-central Illinois, is known for its steep, thickly wooded ridges, broad, lush valleys and miles of rugged, scenic hiking trails.In sharp contrast to the flat prairieland of most of this section of Illinois, the Coles County park is set amidst rolling hills along the forested bluffs of the Embarras ("Ambraw") River. Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Hiking the trails at Fox Ridge is a highlight for many visitors. The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views.Fox Ridge State Park is a great place to visit at any time of year. In winter, the snow-softened ridges are alive with birds and animals. In the spring, a panoramic blanket of multi-hued wildflowers and flowering trees celebrate the resurgence of growth. By summer, the dense vegetation and new generation of wildlife are thriving in the sun, and autumn brings its brilliant display of color as nature enhances the woodlands with yellows, reds, purples and oranges.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">ActivitiesPicnickingFor the day visitor there are many designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park, with tables and grills (ground fires are not permitted), restrooms, drinking water, playgrounds, two baseball diamonds and sand volleyball courts. A large, brick outdoor pavilion and eight smaller shelters are available for reunions and group gatherings. Six shelters are available for reservation.Camping Picnic tables, cooking grills, drinking water, toilet facilities and a sanitary dumping stations are available to campers. The shower building is closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen April 15 (may be earlier - weather depending)TrailsDue to the rich, abundant plant and animal life in the park and its dramatic hills and bluffs, the 8 miles of the park’s meandering trail system is the natural focus for most visitors. Fox Ridge is a ravine of glacial moraine and many of the 10 connected trails are steep. Eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous rest benches make them easily negotiable. Descriptive markers at each trail entrance provide detailed information. Turkey, deer, foxes, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey vultures, hawks, owls, quail, pheasants and the lush foliage will make your journey both exciting and restful.Eight separate but looping trails are located within the park, allowing visitors to extend or cut short a walk. Options range from a walk along the Embarras River to a nice walk through the deciduous forest once common in the area. A 4-mile horse trail is available, however, users must bring their own horse and there are no overnight facilities for horses (Horse trail closed from October 31 - April 15).The staircase to Eagle's Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck overlooking the river, providing wonderful views during the fall, winter and spring.A fitness trail offers another dimension to the trail system. Two accessible trails are available, one wandering along the edge of a ravine and the other circling a small fishing pond with an accessible fishing pier.Fishing and BoatingRidge Lake is well-stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass and channel catfish. However, fishing is permitted by reservation only at this research facility. Contact the Illinois Natural History Survey at 217-345-6490.Fishing in the Embarras River is open to anglers willing to descend the steep slopes. Lake Charleston, about 4 miles from the park, also provides opportunities. Canoe access: Two canoe launches, one north and one south, provide a 5 mile trip on the Embarras River.HuntingThe northern area of the park contains 1,129 acres open for public hunting. A windshield card is needed for hunting, and can be printed off at dnr.illinois.gov. The Fox Ridge hunter fact sheet shows boundary lines and describes the area and species most abundant.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/charleston-il/report/place/fox-ridge-state-park-charleston-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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href="/charleston-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Charleston, IL</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/charleston-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/charleston-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/charleston-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118