Parks and Recreation

Mt. Vernon Veterans Park has playgrounds, a swimming pool, a softball field, lighted tennis courts, picnic shelters, basketball courts, an in line skating area, a six acre lake for fishing, and a community building available for special occasions. A one mile walking and running trail with exercise stations winds around the lake.(618)242-6890

Rend Lake and Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park offer numerous animal sightings plus outstanding fishing, hunting, boating, horseback riding, and miles of bicycle trails.

Garden of the Gods is one of the most beautiful spots in the Midwest and is a National Scenic Treasure.

Giant City State Park is a 3,694 acre park that features sandstone rock formations and woods excellent for hiking, picnicking, and camping. A rustic lodge offers a restaurant, swimming pool lookout tower and several cabins. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the new 4,000 square foot stone and wood Visitor’s Center, containing an exhibit hall with full color displays of the natural, cultural, and geological features of the park. Information is available at (618) 457-4836.