Now that spring is officially here, many students find themselves restless and looking for outdoor fun.

Fox Ridge State Park, an 8-mile drive from Eastern’s campus, offers a variety of activities to keep students occupied.

Glenn Lyons, site superintendent, said the park holds 12 miles of trails used for hiking or walking. A quarter-mile fitness trail that is wheelchair accessible is an alternative.

“A lot of people think Central Illinois is flat,” Lyons said. “But anyone that has been on one of these trails can tell you otherwise.”

For those who want something besides hiking, there are a few more options.

“Eastern has students who are avid hunters, students who are avid fishers and students who just want to come out and throw a frisbee around,” Lyons said.

Fox Ridge has more than 900 acres set aside for public hunting.

“All that hunters need to do is sign in at the office,” Lyons said. “We’ll give them a fact sheet with all the info that they need.”

Fishing is available along the Embarras River and in Ridge Lake during the summer. Lyons said the river can provide channel catfish, flat heads, bass and bluegills.

The park has picnic tables and roadside grills for cooking out. Shelters are available to rent for gatherings and picnics. Campsites are also available.

“Campers can stay in tents or trailers,” said Jodi McKinney, an employee at the park. “We’ve even had a few just sleep out here in their vehicles.”

Campsites are available for $10 a night, but after May 1, sites will be $11 a night because the shower building will be reopened.

Alcohol is allowed for those over 21 for picnics and other activities, but is not allowed on the campgrounds.

“We used to have some problems with people getting wild,” Lyons said. “But we got rid of the alcohol about three years ago, and things have been great.”

The park is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., but after April 1, it will be open from 7:30 a.m. to dusk.

“If you have to turn your headlights on, you had better be heading out,” Lyons said.