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CLOSED TEMPORARILY: Grand Marais Shelter is temporarily closed due to downed trees from the storm on March 19, 2025.
Alcoholic beverages of any kind are unlawful to be brought into or consumed within Frank Holten State Park. Alcoholic beverages can ONLY be purchased and consumed while at the Grand Marais Golf Course, golf course clubhouse or at the restaurant. Inflatable bounce houses are unauthorized without an activity permit from the site office at least 14 days prior to event or shelter rental.
NOTICE: Park Closes at 8:30 PM
Within view of the St. Louis Gateway Arch, Frank Holten State Park is an ideal destination for outdoor recreation in an urban setting in East St. Louis. The 1,080-acre St. Clair County park features the 18-hole Grand Marais Golf Course, two lakes for outstanding fishing, and plenty of open space for picnicking and other outdoors fun. The site is named for the late Frank Holten, who served the region in the Illinois General Assembly for 48 years.
The park features woodlands of Scotch pine, maple, oak, poplar, sycamore, tulip, redbud and wild cherry trees, blossoming flowers and bushes, and urban wildlife.
Frank Holten has one of the largest day use areas in the region, with picnic shelters, and barbecue pits. The two lakes - Whispering Willow Lake and Grand Marais Lake - total more than 200 acres of water and 5 miles of shoreline. Whispering Willow Lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. Boat and bank fishing is allowed (10 horsepower limit for boating).
The 18-hole Grand Marais Golf Course, a one-mile walking trail, and basketball courts are among other attractions at Frank Holten State Park. For more information on the golf course and Lighthouse Restaurant, check the website at www.grandmaraisgolf.com.
West Central Illinois
4500 Pocket Road
East St. Louis
62205
38.594
-90.105
