French colonial history, views of the Mississippi, and distinctive natural areas offer many different ways to discover Randolph. Forts and historic homes tell the story of earlier eras, while trails, fishing spots, and protected areas lead into the landscape. Which places you focus on depends on whether you are more interested in history, nature, or events.
French History and Historic Sites
Fort de Chartres marks the site of the last of three successive French forts built during the French colonial period in 18th-century Illinois. Exhibits at the museum show what French life at the fort was like. In 1960, Fort de Chartres was recognized as a National Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Events include the June Rendezvous, the French and Indian War Winter Encampment in February, Kids Days in May, and French Colonial Crafts and Trades in October. Check event dates before your trip.
Fort Kaskaskia preserves the earth-covered remains of a fort built by the French around 1759 to protect the town of Kaskaskia. The Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site also includes Garrison Hill Cemetery, a viewpoint overlooking the Mississippi River with a picnic area, and a large campground. Tours are offered Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; it is best to confirm availability before your visit.
The Pierre Menard Home is considered an exceptionally fine example of French Creole architecture and overlooks the Mississippi River. The grounds include a small museum and an audiovisual room. The site is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Tours are generally offered from May 16 to November 16, Wednesday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Since staff availability is limited, it is recommended that you confirm the tour in advance.
The Kaskaskia Bell Memorial also combines a historic object with a place of remembrance: it houses a bell cast by King Louis XV in 1741, later known as the Liberty Bell of the West. The memorial is open daily from sunrise to sunset for self-guided visits. An Independence Day program is held there each year to commemorate the capture of Kaskaskia on July 4, 1778. Check event details before you travel.
Natural Areas, Trails, and Views
Piney Creek Ravine State Natural Area covers 198 acres on the border between Randolph and Jackson counties. It is one of only two places in Illinois where shortleaf pines grow naturally. A hiking trail runs past a cliff-top overlook above the creek. The landscape’s cultural heritage also includes nearly 200 prehistoric rock art images. They are believed to date from the Late Woodland period (500–1000 AD) and the Mississippian period (1000–1550 AD). Here, observing nature goes hand in hand with a much longer view of human history.
Randolph County State Recreation Area spans 1,101 acres in a hilly landscape in southern Illinois. Activities available there include fishing, hiking, picnicking, boating, hunting, and camping. Access is via the west entrance on Palestine Road. Another natural area is Kaskaskia River State Fish and Wildlife Area: it covers more than 20,000 acres and extends along the Kaskaskia River into Randolph County. It includes 2,200 acres of river backwaters and side channels. Fishing is available year-round at Baldwin Lake; the lake and adjacent areas are designated as a waterfowl and wildlife refuge.
The World Shooting and Recreational Complex near Sparta in Randolph County offers a different kind of experience. The recreation facility covers 1,600 acres and hosts the Amateur Trapshooting Association’s Grand American Trapshooting Championships every summer.
More to Discover in the County
In Chester, you can set out on a scavenger hunt for 15 Popeye character statues scattered throughout the town. Chester is the hometown of Popeye creator Elzie Segar; a statue at the Chester Welcome Center has stood there for more than 30 years. Chester also hosts the annual Popeye Picnic and parade on the weekend after Labor Day. Check current event dates before your visit.
The Randolph County Museum and Archives houses county artifacts as well as artifacts from Indigenous American cultures spanning more than 300 years. The collection also includes the Kaskaskia Manuscripts, with court records from the 18th century. If you would rather admire a structure, Mary's River Covered Bridge, built in 1854, is the only surviving bridge of its kind in southern Illinois. The Kaskaskia Cahokia Trail is one of Randolph County’s attractions and is considered the oldest road in Illinois. An observation deck at the Randolph County Courthouse offers views of the Mississippi River Valley.
Discover more destinations: Tilden, Red Bud, Fayette County, Jefferson, Mclean County, Livingston County, Champaign, Ogle County
For the main travel overview: Illinois.
