Fox Ridge State Park RV & Campground Guide

Ridge Lake is a stocked, 12-acre lake in the park. Fish include bluegill, channel catfish, and largemouth bass. Fishing is allowed by reservation only, so in addition to securing an Illinois fishing license, you will need to contact the Illinois Natural History Survey. Anglers willing to hike down the steep banks can also fish in the Embarras River. It's best for fly fishing and may flood in the spring.

The park has a few geocaches stashed around, waiting for eager adventurers to uncover, including the Geological Potpourri Earthcache.

The park offers a concrete shelter where guests can wait for animals to pass by, but the campground has just as many wild visitors. Wild turkeys often move through the area, along with pheasant, quail, and the predatory species that hunt them. A comfortable camp chair and a pair of binoculars are all you need.

Although parts of the park are heavily forested, the area has very low light pollution and excellent stargazing opportunities. One of the best places to see the stars is the southern canoe launch area. It's also best to go stargazing during cooler seasons when there is less atmospheric haze.

Part of the park features broad meadows dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer, but most of the paths showcase the park's forested hills. The area is a haven for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, hawks, owls, pheasants, quails, raccoons, and turkey vultures.

The park has several excellent trails for eager hikers. Fox Ridge State Park Loop Trail is a slightly challenging 4.8 track that leads through the area's natural highlights. The challenge comes mainly from the steep inclines and wooden staircases built along the sharper drops down the hills. This trail is family-friendly but not stroller-friendly. Acorn Avenue Trail, a 1.7-mile loop, is another excellent option. It's also moderately challenging, with lots of hills and wooden staircases built into the trail. Both paths are great for birding and enjoying autumn colors.

There are two boat launches on the Embarras River. Canoes and kayaks are both welcome, though guests should be aware and consult local weather reports to avoid potential flash floods. Although Ridge Lake is in the park, the waters are protected by the Illinois Natural History Survey. No motorized boats are allowed on the water.

Although many of the park's trails aren't suitable for bikes, the new Embarras River Trail is open to both hiking and biking. It's just under a mile long and runs along the river.