Illinois
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Point of Interest
Monks Mound rises 100 feet above the Mississippi River floodplain — the largest prehistoric earthwork in North America. The site preserves 72 mounds built by the Mississippian culture between 1050-1200 AD, when this was a city larger than London. The interpretive center has exhibits, films, and a viewing platform overlooking the Grand Plaza where 20,000 people once gathered.
Perfect stop when running the Illinois River Bluffs trails — it’s just off I-255 and gives you the big picture of why this river corridor was so important to ancient peoples. The site roads are all paved and the visitor center has clean restrooms and water. Open year-round except major holidays.
Ancient city ruins bigger than medieval London
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Major Street, Collinsville, Illinois 62201 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Collinsville, Illinois |
| Miles from pavement | 0.5 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Full |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Cell signal, Drinking water, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |