The area is renowned for its wooded areas and abundance of songbirds and wildlife. Hikers on the trail may see woodpeckers, hawks, turkeys, deer, squirrels and waterfowl as they wind through woods and open fields, and around the lakeshore. 11.6 miles of horse trails provide riders with the same panorama of sights and sounds.

Camping
Fifty-one Class BE campsites, ninety-five Class C campsites, an Equestrian with eight stalls for horses, and four Class D (Primitive) campsites available throughout the area. A group camp area has its own shelter, stone fireplace, electricity and tables.

Picnicking
A wonderful escape from a hot summer day awaits visitors in any of the six picnic areas. Nestled among hickory, oak, sweetgum and tulip trees, the picnic areas have shelters, tables, fire grills, and water fountains. Some of the shelters can be reserved, so plan ahead and bring your family and friends.

Hunting
Squirrel hunters will find plenty of grey and fox squirrels which can be hunted with shotgun or bow. Dove, deer, rabbit, quail and woodcock are popular game species. Hunters must check at the park office for a hunter fact sheet, map and regulations. 

Kidd Lake Hunter Fact Sheet | Randolph Hunter Fact Sheet

Winter Sports
On cold, wintry days, the horse trails provide a perfect path for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. For nature observers, winter is a great time to see many varieties of wildlife along the hiking trails and scenic areas.

Satellite Areas

Areas for those who want additional nature opportunities, several other satellite area are close by. Turkey Bluffs State Fish and Wildlife Area is located south of Chester and features picnic areas with scenic overlooks. Hunting for all species with statewide regulations is permissible at Turkey Bluffs. Fults Hill Prairie is located a few miles north of Prairie du Rocher and offers a spectacular view from the bluff overlooking the Mississippi flood plain. Prairie flowers, soaring eagles and hawks provide a breathtaking experience. Piney Creek Nature Preserve is one of two locations in the state that possesses short leaf pine trees. A hiking trail crosses through a ravine with steep canyon walls and past a running stream with waterfalls. This scenic adventure will challenge the most avid hiker. Kidd Lake Natural Area is also nearby and provides quiet retreats from daily routine.

Directions
All access to the area is from the west entrance off Palestine Rd. Coming from the North on Route 3 one will turn east on Shawneetown Trail south of the town of Ellis Grove. At Palestine turn south on Palestine Road and proceed two miles then turn left at the entrance sign. Coming from the north on Route 150 turn west on Shawneetown Trail and proceed to Palestine then turn south on Palestine Road and proceed to the entrance sign and turn left into the area. Coming from the south from Chester head north on Palestine Road to the entrance sign and turn right into the area

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