Fort Defiance Park

Nicholas Fischer

I love the history of this place. The confluence of the mighty Mississippi and a Ohio rivers, and the confluences of old and new world cultures. Sadly, for some illogical reasons, the park, and area have fallen into a sad state of disrepair. Hopefully, historians, like me, can breath some new life into this region.

Jeff Bennett

This park offers the best view of the confluence of Ohio and Mississippi rivers. There's an observation deck atop a building, although it's up some stairs. River traffic, street traffic on the nearby bridges and the park setting make for some nice pictures. Free entertainment. That said, it's a sad little park. Empty alcohol bottles and other evidence indicates it is used for other activities at certain times. Cairo does not have a lot going for it, so keep expectations low. But, there's really only one reason to visit, and it does that very well.

Kyle Hartmann

As many other reviewers note, the park is past its prime. It’s still worth a stop, but be aware it isn’t in the best shape. It’s very cool to see the confluence of two of America’s biggest rivers culturally and geographically, which can be seen with the small platform at the tip of Illinois. There are several historical markers at the front car park/entrance, but the gates were not opened on time which made those camping inside to have to wait an hour just to drive out, and me to walk through the park, which wasn’t a big deal. Worth a stop either way, cheers.

Alan Franklin

What to say about this park? Well was it worth the stop? Yes, but there's not much and it's pretty run down. You are able to climb the observation tower and get a birds eye view of the Ohio-Mississippi River confluence. Also, my son enjoyed watching the boats while they preformed some barge work. Beyond that the road is in terrible shape, their was trash throughout the park (including glass that my son picked up), and the port-a-potty needed some love.