Pyramid State Recreation Area

Welcome to Pyramid State Recreation Area, nearly 20,000 acres of ponds, lakes, and forested hills located near Pinckneyville, Illinois. This is the largest State Recreation Area in the State of Illinois and is located on what used to be an operating coal mine.

Park History: A section of this land was once used for research by Southern Illinois University. In 1962, the State's first strip mine reclamation law went into effect and efforts were made to reclaim the landscape by planting oaks, hickories, pines, and other plants. The reclamation efforts were successful and today the park's lakes range in size from one tenth of an acre to 276 acres. The land officially became a State Recreation Area in 1968 with the first parcel of land purchased from Southern Illinois University and additional parcels bought over the years from the mining company. Wildlife: This park protects the habitat of numerous wild critters including bobcats, coyotes, weasels, woodchucks, minks, deer, rabbits, squirrels, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors, recreational opportunities here are numerous. This park boasts nearly 17 miles of multipurpose trails, several fishing lakes, boat launches, and numerous campgrounds. Come on out and explore.

To contact the park office please call 618-357-2574.