Located within sight of St. Louis Gateway
Arch, Frank Holten is an urban site almost entirely surrounded by East
St. Louis. The 1,080-acre park features an 18-hole golf course and facilities
for fishing, picnicking, and other outdoor recreational activities.
The park was established in 1964 and named
Grand Marais. On May 1, 1967, the name was changed to Frank Holten, in
honor of the late distinguished legislator from East St. Louis. First
elected in 1916, Holten served 48 years in the Illinois General Assembly.
He died in December, 1966 at the age of 98.
Natural
Features
In addition to the lakes and facilities located
at Frank Holten, the park features a diversity of plant and animal life.
Shade and decorative trees include Scotch pine, maple, oak, poplar, sycamore,
ginko, tulip, red bud, sweet gum, and wild cherry. Water lily, lilac,
arrowhead, bridal wreath, honeysuckle bush, and mock orange are some of
the blossoming flowers and bushes. Many common wildlife species may be
viewed in the park, such as rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, fox, groundhog,
muskrat, and mink.
Picnicking
Frank Holten has one of the largest day use areas in the surrounding area.
The park area consists of picnic shelters, barbecue pits, sanitation facilities,
and drinking fountains. The facility can accommodate up to 2,000 patrons
per day with adequate parking for all.
Concession
Stand
A variety of refreshments are offered, including sandwiches, snack items,
and soft drinks. The stand is located in the golf clubhouse.
Fishing
Frank Holten has two lakes - Whispering Willow Lake and Grand Marais Lake
- with a combined water surface of 208 acres and five miles of shoreline.
Wispering Willow Lake was rehabilitated in 1983 and stocked with largemouth
bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Boat and bank fishing is allowed,
but boat anglers must use trolling motors or motors no large than 10 horsepower.
Daily creel and length in limits are in effect for some sport species.
Anglers are advised to check with the site superintendent for any special
regulations before fishing.
Boating
There are no boat rentals at Frank Holten. Boat launch ramps
are available on Wispering Willow and Grand Marais lakes.
Recreation
Frank Holten has an 18-hole golf course, named Grand Marais.
The park also offers a combined football-soccer field, a cross-country
track, basketball, and baseball diamonds.
- While groups of 25 or
more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required
to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling
conflicts.
- At least one responsible
adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
- Pets must be kept on
leashes at all times.
- Actions by nature can
result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park
office before you make your trip.
- We hope you enjoy your
stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.
- For more information
on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity,
Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
- Telecommunication Device
for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources Information (217) 782-9175
for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.
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