Despite Our Rural Charm, We’re Conveniently Located

Nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois and the Shawnee National Forest, Goreville boasts breathtaking natural beauty. From upland to lowland species of trees and abundant wildlife, the surrounding environment is ecologically diverse. The village is home to Lake of Egypt, and Ferne Clyffe State Park, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the tranquility of small-town life, Goreville has something to offer.

Easy to Arrive … Easy to Stay

We offer a delightful blend of recreational activities, shopping, and dining.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, our Village Park is the heart of Goreville’s recreational scene, and while Goreville isn’t a bustling metropolis, it’s home to locally owned stores, specialty shops, restaurants and more. So, whether you’re playing in the park, browsing quaint shops, or savoring a meal, Goreville invites you to experience our warm hospitality and community spirit!

Plan Your Next Escape

Explore the tourism opportunities in and around our little village, where the picturesque Lake of Egypt and the charming Ferne Clyffe State Park await your visit.

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Ferne Clyffe State Park

Just a short trip from Lake of Egypt lies Ferne Clyffe State Park, covering 2,430 acres in Johnson County, we like to think of it as our “Big Back Yard.”

• Hiking and Horseback Riding: Explore scenic trails that wind through lush forests. Don’t miss the Big Rocky Hollow Trail, where you’ll encounter a 100-foot-tall intermittent waterfall—a true natural wonder.
• Camping: Set up camp in this beautiful park and immerse yourself in nature. Wake up to birdsong and fresh air, ready for a day of adventure.
• Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic with family and friends. The 150-foot-long shelter bluff known as Hawk’s Cave provides a unique backdrop for your outdoor meal.
• Bank Fishing: Ferne Clyffe Lake, covering 16 acres, offers bank fishing opportunities. Cast your line and see what bites!
• Scenic Views: Take in spectacular views of the lake from various vantage points within the park.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Ferne Clyffe State Park won’t disappoint. It’s a place where charm and scenic beauty converge, inviting you to explore every corner of its natural wonders.

Lake of Egypt

Lake of Egypt is a hidden gem nestled in Southern Illinois, just south of Marion. Here, you’ll find a secluded expanse of water spanning 93 miles of wooded bays and inlets. Locals have been coming here for lazy summer vacations, drawn by the serenity and long days of fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation. The lake was created in 1962 when the Southern Illinois Power Cooperative dammed the south fork of the Saline River. While its primary purpose is to cool the cooperative’s power plant, the lake’s beauty is undeniable.

Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular activities at Lake of Egypt. Three marinas buzz with boats from dawn to dusk during the summer. If you seek tranquility, explore the quiet inlets for bluegill, bass, catfish, and crappie fishing. And why the name “Lake of Egypt”? Legend has it that a Baptist missionary named John Badgley visited Southern Illinois in 1799, stood on a bluff, and likened the river valley to the fertile Egyptian lands of Goshen from the Book of Genesis. Thus, Southern Illinois became known as “Little Egypt,” and local towns adopted Egyptian-themed names like Cairo, Thebes, and Karnak.

So pack your sense of adventure and head to Goreville, Illinois, where Lake of Egypt and Ferne Clyffe State Park await your discovery!