Tags:
Illinois State Parks ,
Murphysboro Illinois Boat Camps ,
Murphysboro Illinois Campgrounds ,
Murphysboro Illinois Parks ,
Murphysboro Illinois Trails
Welcome to Lake Murphysboro State Park, over 1,000 acres of scenic rolling hills and woodlands located in Jackson County, Illinois near Murphysboro.
Park History: Archeologists have discovered evidence of the Old Woodland and Paleolithic Native American Cultures in Lake Murphysboro State Park and the surrounding region. The Paleolithic tribes were big game hunters and the Woodland tribes were more agricultural and left more evidence.
In 1818, Illinois gained statehood, and a man by the name of Dr. Conrad Will, who served in the legislature, operated a salt works on the land and the town of Brownsboro was developed around it. In 1840, the salt works closed and all that remains of Brownsboro is the graveyard. In the 1930's there was growing local interest for the land to be used as a public park for recreational purposes. In 1948, the land was purchased by the State of Illinois. Lake Murphysboro itself was formed by damming of Indian Creek in 1950 by the Department of Fisheries. The lake has nearly 8 miles of shoreline, is 36 feet at it's deepest point, and is stocked with fish such as catfish, bass, and sunfish. Some of the park's plants include twayblades, puttyroots, oaks, and hickories.
For the lover of the outdoors Lake Murphysboro State Park boasts over 3 miles of hiking trails, an archery range, a boat launch, a fishing pier, and several campsites. Come on out and have fun. To contact the office call 618-684-2867.
Lake Murphysboro State Park
52 Cinder Hill Drive
Murphysboro, Illinois
62966
United States
37.775066, -89.386826
Map:
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