For spring break we decided on staying at the Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna, Illinois, which is the northwestern part of the state. Since we were there in late March we happened to be there at the prefect time to watch all of the eagles.
CAMPING
There are over 200 camp sites in this park, about half of them have electric hook ups. There are building with flush toilets and showers which are open May 1st thru Oct 31. Since we were there for spring break they hadn’t turned on water services yet. Which is okay if you don’t mind dry camping. We were still able to use the dump station. Reservations are made through the exploremoreil website.
HIKING
This park has many hiking trails and lots of amazing look outs over the bluffs on the Mississippi River. One thing we found was the trials tend to be on the more challenging/strenuous side of things and some trials can be dangerous since they are extremely close to the bluff. I wouldn’t go on some of the trials on the south side of the park if it’s icy or wet. Also keep in mind that the park does close in November for deer hunting season so make sure to look that up before you book. If you are looking for a short walk to an impressive overlook try Ozzie’s Point, Louis’s Point, and Lookout Point. For a simple easy trail to do try Oak Point trail.
THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
Galena
Mississippi Palisades is about an 30ish minute drive to Galena, IL which has a very beautiful old downtown that is amazing for shopping and food choices. For Shopping my favorite place in Galena is Poopsie’s they have the most unique options and they have a kids section as well. We always find something fun to purchase at Poopsies. We had lunch at the Green Tavern in the DeSoto House hotel which was amazing. On a previous (kid free) trip I had stopped in Galena Brewing Company and that is also a worth while stop for beer lovers. I’ve also eaten at the Fried Green Tomato and enjoyed their salmon dish. Our kids appreciate a good ice cream stop whenever we are on vacation and downtown Galena doesn’t disappoint, head over to The American Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and you won’t be disappointed. Visiting Ulysses S. Grant‘s Home in Galena, IL is a wonderful spot to visit even if you don’t take the tour inside the home, it has an amazing view of the down that is completely worth the stop. There are also several wineries to visit in the area between Galena and Mississippi Palisades.
Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa
Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa is about an hour drive from Mississippi Palisades. We didn’t it make it over there this trip but I’ve heard it has a lot of great caves and hiking to explore. The claim on their website if they have the most caves of any state park. This one is definitely on my list for next time.
