Buffalo Rock State Park comprises jagged sandstone bluffs and dense vegetation along the Illinois River. It is known for its Effigy Tumuli, an outdoor artwork whose five animal sculptures draw from Native American traditions. Make your way through this scenic park via the flat and short trails that are ideal for beginner hikers.
Inspect the large sculpted mounds made from Illinois clay. They depict animals that play an important role in the local ecosystem: a turtle, a snake, a frog, a catfish and an insect. Completed in 1985 by artist Michael Heizer, these exceptional works fuse artificial mounds with the natural surroundings. Walk along the 2,070-foot (631-meter) snake, which flows into the river.
Stop for a picnic in one of the two shelters in the park, with grills, tables and water fountains. Watch your kids frolicking in the playground or playing on the baseball diamond. Nearby a pen and grazing field hold two American bison.
A short walk south along the River Bluff Trail leads to viewing platforms that overlook the picturesque tree-lined Illinois River. Take the Woodland Trail to inspect the range of plants and animals. Visit the park in autumn to appreciate the full color palette of fall foliage. In winter, snow fills the area and eagles grace the sky.
Note that the 298-acre (121-hectare) park was once an island in the heart of the river, before merging with the northern shore. Illinois Indians lived in these parts, when French explorers arrived in the 17th century.
Buffalo Rock State Park stands on the northern side of a curve on the Illinois River, a little east of Utica. Drive southwest from Ottawa for 10 minutes to reach it. Go to some of the nearby sights, such as the Buffalo Range Shooting Park, Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park.
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