Pere Marquette State Park

Known as Pere, the French word for "Father," missionary Pere (Father) Jacques Marquette explored this area with Louis Joliet in 1673 upon reaching the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Illinois River.

Pere Marquette State Park, northwest of St Louis near the Illinois community of Grafton, encompasses 7,900 scenic acres.

For visitors, lodging is available at the Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center.