top of page
Search

A Dog-Friendly Guide to Ferne Clyffe State Park

  • Writer: Moose's Golden Tails
    Moose's Golden Tails
  • 1 day ago
  • 6 min read

Tucked into the rolling hills of southern Illinois, Ferne Clyffe State Park feels nothing like the flat landscapes most people expect from this state. Fern-lined canyon walks, quiet forest trails, and waterfalls spilling over sandstone cliffs make it one of the most scenic places to hike in Illinois - and yes, you can bring your dog along. We spent two half days exploring the trails, pausing at waterfalls, and navigating a few muddy stretches, and it quickly became one of my favorite dog-friendly adventures in Illinois.


A golden retriever stands on a rock by a waterfall, leash hanging down. The setting is a rocky area with trees and a clear, blue sky.

If you're wondering whether Ferne Clyffe is dog-friendly, which trails are best for hiking with a dog, where to find the waterfalls, where to stay, and what to know before you go, this guide covers everything you need. From the easiest waterfall hikes to helpful tips for keeping your pup safe on rocky terrain, here's how to plan the perfect visit with your four-legged adventure buddy.


Is Ferne Clyffe State Park Dog-Friendly?

Yes - Ferne Clyffe is dog-friendly, as long as your dog is kept on a leash. Dogs are allowed on the park's trails, including the popular waterfall hikes, making it a great option for adventurous dog owners looking to explore southern Illinois together.


Leashes are required at all times (typically no longer than six feet), and dogs are not permitted inside park buildings. As with all parks, you are expected to clean up after your pet and stay on designated trails. Because several of the waterfalls are surrounded by rocky, uneven terrain, it's important to keep a close eye on your dog - especially after rain when the sandstone can become slippery.


Golden retriever on a leash stands by a flowing creek in a forest with bare trees. Overcast sky adds a calm, natural mood.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe is one of the better Illinois state parks for hiking with a dog thanks to its shaded forest trails, manageable distances, and scenic payoff without overly technical climbs. With a little preparation, it makes for an easy and rewarding day outdoors with your dog!


Best Dog-Friendly Trails

One of the reasons this park stands out as a dog-friendly destination is the variety of trails. Whether you're looking for a short waterfall walk or a longer scenic loop, this park has the options.


Big Rocky Hollow Trail

If it's your first visit (like ours), start here. Big Rocky Hollow is one of the most popular trails in the park, leading to a beautiful seasonal waterfall surrounded by towering rock walls and lush ferns. There was a lot of rainfall before my visit, so I was able to see a total of four waterfalls on this trail! This trail is relatively short and mostly easy, though there are some rocky and uneven sections closer to the falls. After rain, expect mud and slippery sandstone. I wore tall rain boots and I'm so glad I did, most others were struggling to navigate through mud and puddles. For most dogs, this is a manageable and rewarding hike - just take it slow near the water.


Collage: Forest creek, waterfall, and a happy golden retriever sitting on mossy rocks in an overcast woodland setting.

Round Bluff Trail

For more of a workout, Round Bluff offers elevation gain and sweeping views of the surrounding forest. This trail is longer and more moderately challenging. The reward is quieter stretches of trails and scenic overlooks that feel far removed from the typical Illinois landscape. Bring extra water, especially in warmer months, as portions of this hike are more exposed.




Waterfall Hikes

Big Rocky Hollow Waterfall

Location - Main recreation area (enter thru main entrance)

Parking - Boat Rock Picnic Area

Trail - Big Rocky Hollow Trail

Distance - about 1 mile round-trip

Water flow- best after rain


Waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs in a forest. Mossy trees and rocks surround a stream on a cloudy day, creating a serene atmosphere.

What to expect

  • Wide gravel path through a narrow canyon

  • Fern-lined rock walls

  • Roughly 100 ft seasonal waterfall at the end


Rebman Trail Waterfalls

Location - Same area as Big Rocky Hollow (enter thru main entrance)

Parking - Same parking lot as Big Rocky Hollow

Trail - Rebman Trail

Distance - Roughly 0.5 mile

Difficulty - Easy


Golden retriever sits happily by a rocky creek with waterfalls in a forest setting, surrounded by bare trees and mossy roots.


Mossy rock wall with deep crevices in a forest, surrounded by bare trees and a leaf-covered path under a cloudy sky.

What to expect

  • Two smaller waterfalls

  • Mossy rocks and shallow stream crossings

  • Very short


Hawk's Cave Falls

Location - Same area as Big Rocky Hollow (enter thru main entrance)

Parking - Same parking lot as Big Rocky Hollow

Trail - Hawk's Cave Trail

Distance - Roughly 1 mile loop

Difficulty - Easy


Golden retriever stands near a waterfall cascading over rocks in a forest. Moss and trees surround, creating a serene, natural scene.
1st waterfall if hiking the loop counter-clockwise

Small waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by bare trees and shrubs, under a clear sky. A serene and natural setting.
2nd waterfall if hiking the loop counter-clockwise
Rocky cave with a textured ceiling overlooking a forest of bare trees. A person stands near the cave entrance. The mood is serene and natural.

What to expect

  • Stunning rock shelter/cave formation

  • 2 seasonal waterfalls flowing over sandstone

  • More rugged terrain than Big Rocky Hollow


Bork's Waterfall

Location - Cedar Bluff side (west of the main part of the park)

Parking - Bork's Waterfall parking lot

Trail - Bork's Waterfall

Distance - 0.5 mile

Difficulty - Easy, some difficult terrain getting down to the falls


Waterfall flows under a rocky overhang into a clear pool, surrounded by forest trees and sunlight. Tranquil natural setting.

Golden retriever stands on rocky ground by a waterfall, surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky. The scene is serene and natural.
My favorite waterfall in the park

What to expect

  • 30+ ft waterfall

  • Less crowded

  • More natural/untouched feel


Twin Falls & Big Buck Creek Cascades

Location - Cedar Bluff side (west of the main part of the park)

Parking - Small, unnamed parking lot off Happy Hollow Rd

Trail - Big Buck Creek Trail

Distance - about 2 miles

Difficulty - Moderate


Sunlit forest with a small stream cascading over mossy rocks. Leafless trees stand tall in the background under a clear blue sky.

What to expect

  • Smaller double cascades

  • Multiple creek crossings, come prepared with proper footwear

  • Twin falls is a bit more hidden

  • Quiet, less trafficked


Note: I combined Big Buck Creek and Bork's Waterfall. I visited the park after a lot of rainfall so I could see the waterfalls at their best. Unfortunately, heavy rainfall can make it difficult to access the parking lot right by Bork's Waterfall. Whether you come in from Cedar Grove Road or Regent Lane, you will have to drive through a creek. Coming from Regent Lane, the road runs across a creek right above the falls and it can look a bit sketchy. Without a high clearance vehicle and with high water levels, it looks like it could sweep your car right over the edge! I did see on a few reviews on AllTrails that some people were able to park their car right before the creek and walk to the trail-head from there.

I tried coming in from Cedar Grove Road and ended up turning around as the water levels looked too high. I ended up parking at the Big Buck Creek trail-head - it's a small gravel parking lot without signage. I started on the Big Buck Creek Trail, then hopped on the River To River Trail, which then lead me to Bork's Waterfall. It ended up being a total of 4.88 miles out-and-back, and if you take this route, I highly recommend tall rain boots to navigate through the many creek crossings.


Tips for Hiking Ferne Clyffe With a Dog

While this park is very dog-friendly, a little preparation will make your visit much smoother - especially around the waterfalls and rocky terrain.

1. Watch for slippery rock near waterfalls. The sandstone around the falls can become slick, especially after rain. Take it slow, keep your dog close on a leash.

2. Expect mud after rain. Spring and post-storm hikes can mean muddy trails, particularly on Big Rocky Hollow. Bringing an extra towel for muddy paws is a good idea. If possible, walk through muddy trails, not around.

3. Bring more water than you think you need. Southern Illinois can get hot and humid in the summer. Even though many trails are shaded, airflow is limited in canyon areas. Carry water for both you and your dog, especially on longer hikes.

4. Check for ticks. The forested environment is beautiful, but it's also tick territory in spring and summer. A quick check before getting back in the car can save you trouble later. No matter what season or what the weather is, I always do a tick check after every hike.

5. Go Early for fewer crowds. Waterfall areas are the most popular spots in the park. If your dog does better in quieter environments, aim for weekday visits or early mornings on weekends.

6. Stay on designated trails. The canyon walls and bluff areas can have steep drop-offs. Keeping your dog on marked paths protect both their safety and the natural environment.


With the right preparation, Ferne Clyffe makes for an easy, scenic adventure that feels far more dramatic than most people expect from Illinois.


Where We Stayed Near Fern Clyffe State Park

For this trip, we stayed at the Baymont by Wyndham in Marion, which is about a 20 minute drive from the park. It was a convenient and budget-friendly option, especially since they offer pet-friendly rooms, making it easy to travel with our dog.


A dog is sitting on a bed in a hotel room with blue walls and patterned carpet. The room has two beds and wooden furnishings.

After a long evening exploring the waterfalls and trails, it was nice to have a comfortable place nearby to relax for the evening. Staying in Marion also makes it easy to access restaurants, grocery stores, and other essentials after hiking.


Golden retriever lying on a white bed in a room with blue walls, wooden headboard, and framed art above. Calm and relaxed mood.

If your'e planning a dog-friendly trip to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Marion is a great nearby town to use as your base.


Cloudy sky over grassy field with a black pole and a sign reading "Baymont Inn & Suites." A building and stop sign are in the background.
Plenty of grass for potty breaks out front

Final Thoughts? Is Ferne Clyffe Worth Visiting With Your Dog?

If you're looking for a place in Illinois that feels completely unexpected, Ferne Clyffe State Park absolutely delivers. Between the fern-covered canyon walls, quiet forest trails, and seasonal waterfalls, it feels more like a tucked-away Appalachian escape than a typical Midwest hike - and the fact that you can bring your dog along makes it even better.


A dog sits in front of large, layered rock formations in a cave-like setting. The rocks display shades of brown, yellow, and red.

If you love discovering scenic spots that don't feel like Illinois, this one deserves a spot on your list. Ferne Clyffe proves that you don't have to leave the Midwest to find dramatic landscapes - sometimes the most surprising places are right in your own state.


Comments

bottom of page