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Photographs of Ferne Clyffe State Park Illinois
Ferne Clyffe State Park lies in the Shawnee National Forest region of southern Illinois. Illinois’ River to River Trail runs through the park and there are intermittent waterfalls and sandstone formations and canyons as well as a protected nature preserve. It is a lovely park and enjoyable to see it as it changes from season to season. I first visited this park in October 2015 and have been returning ever since. It is a favorite stop-over on my return home when visiting the region. With 18 trails it offers diversity and many are easily accessible. Photographing it throughout the seasons is a joy.
Big Rocky Hollow is a sandstone box canyon in Ferne Clyffe State Park. The main attraction is the 100 foot waterfall at the end of the box canyon but it is intermittent. Visiting after some rain the falls roar but beyond the main falls water tumbles over ledges throughout the canyon. On a hot and humid summer day it can be magical with the mist and sound of falling water. Lighting can be challenging to photograph the main falls as the upper section can be brightly light. Despite the many visitors to the canyon (and the easy hiking trail within) the canyon can be a place of peace and tranquility. I have visited the canyon on numerous occasions, in different seasons and under varying weather conditions. At times I will stop on my return home after a day of hiking just for a peaceful stroll, capturing images of the valley beneath its tall bluffs in the soft even light. The lush green moss covering rocks and trees gives it color even in winter.