Illinois State Parks

Location:

Zion, IL

Highlights:

Want to enjoy beach days, trails, and even scuba diving—without leaving Illinois? Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park delivers a full-on outdoor adventure with golden sand, lake views, and year-round recreation.

We Recommend This For:

Campers, beachgoers, nature lovers, scuba divers, families, and anyone looking for an active or relaxing escape on Lake Michigan.

What we Love:

The 6.5-mile sandy beach, the on-site resort, and the unexpected perks like scuba diving and geocaching.

• Enjoy a wide range of facilities including hiking and biking trails, fishing piers, boat launches, camping areas, and cross-country skiing in winter.
• Relax or swim along the park’s stunning 6.5-mile stretch of golden sand on Lake Michigan—widely considered one of the state’s best beaches.
• Discover unique activities like scuba diving in designated areas and geocaching adventures throughout the park.
• Stay at the on-site resort, a great option for both romantic getaways and family vacations.

Cost:

Free entry; fees apply for camping and resort accommodations

Distance from Chicago:

Approximately 50 miles north—about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic

How to Get to the Park:

From Chicago, take I-94 North to IL-173 East, then head south on Sheridan Road to Lake Front Drive. Parking and signage for the park are well marked upon arrival.

Address:

1 Lake Front Drive, Zion, IL 60099
Phone: 847-662-4811

Location:

LaSalle, IL (and surrounding towns along the canal corridor)

Highlights:

Want to walk where Abraham Lincoln once roamed or cruise along a historic waterway? The I&M Canal National Heritage Corridor combines natural beauty, fascinating history, and charming towns into one unforgettable journey.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, nature walkers, anglers, families, and anyone who enjoys scenic trails and cultural storytelling.

What we Love:

The canal boat tours, walkable 15-mile trail, rich heritage sites, and great fishing at Lock 14 along the Illinois River.

• Explore the first designated National Heritage Area in the U.S.—established by Congress in 1982 to preserve its natural, cultural, and historical value.
• Walk the 15-mile trail segment that passes through three historic canal towns, with interpretive signage and scenic views along the way.
• Experience the past with canal boat tours that echo 19th-century travel and highlight figures like Chief Shabbona and Abraham Lincoln.
• Fish at Lock 14, where the I&M Canal and Illinois River converge—ideal for catching largemouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, and walleye.

Cost:

Free to access the trail and canal; boat tours and programs may have a fee

Distance from Chicago:

About 95 miles southwest—approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on your entry point

How to Get to the I&M Canal Corridor:

Start at the I&M Canal Visitor Center in LaSalle for maps, boat tour info, and historical exhibits. From there, follow the canal trail westward or explore other stops along the corridor.

Address:

I&M Canal Visitor Center, 754 First Street, LaSalle, IL 61301
Phone: 815-220-1848

Location:

Keithsburg, IL

Highlights:

Want to step into a forest filled with towering pines, rare wildflowers, and rich history? Big River State Forest is a peaceful retreat perfect for hiking, camping, and getting back to nature.

We Recommend This For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, horseback riders, and anyone looking to explore historic forestland with modern amenities.

What we Love:

The tall old-growth pines, endangered plant life, and the forest’s storied past as a refuge and plantation before becoming a state park.

• Discover the park’s roots as the Oquawka Refuge and Milroy Plantation, officially acquired by the state in 1925 and established in 1928.
• Wander through 2,900 acres of prairie woodlands home to endangered species and unique plants like Sullivan’s milkweed and kittentail.
• Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and exploring scenic trails shaded by some of the oldest and tallest pines in Illinois.
• Fish, boat, camp, or hunt in designated areas—perfect for multi-day stays with family or friends.

Cost:

Free entry; permits may be required for camping and hunting

Distance from Galesburg, IL:

Approximately 45 miles west—about a 1-hour drive

How to Get to Big River State Forest:

From Galesburg, take US-34 W to IL-164 W, then head south on Township Road 2850 N. The forest entrance is well-marked with available parking.

Address:

1337 Township Road 2850 N, Keithsburg IL 61443-9609
Phone: 309-374-2496

Romantic Illinois State Parks

Location:

Big Rock, IL

Highlights:

Looking for a preserve that changes beautifully with every season? Big Rock Forest Preserve offers prairie views, woodland hikes, and crystal-clear waters all year round—with plenty of peace and space to explore.

We Recommend This For:

Nature photographers, birdwatchers, families, horseback riders, anglers, and anyone who loves seasonal outdoor adventures.

What we Love:

The 65-foot deep quarry lake, mature forests, scenic prairie trails, and the park’s ability to shine in every season—from wildflower spring hikes to winter cross-country skiing.

• Admire the preserve’s 65-foot-deep lake, tallgrass prairie, clear-running creeks, and mature oak-hickory woodlands.
• Fish (but not swim) in the Big Rock Quarry, where multiple fish species make for a rewarding day by the water.
• Enjoy year-round recreation: birdwatching during spring migration, fishing in summer, foliage hiking in fall, and cross-country skiing in winter.
• Explore by foot, bike, or horseback—and relax with a scenic picnic after your outing.

Cost:

Free entry

Distance from Aurora, IL:

Approximately 15 miles west—about a 25-minute drive

How to Get to Big Rock Forest Preserve:

From Aurora, take US-30 W toward Big Rock, then turn onto Jericho Road. The preserve entrance is clearly marked and includes parking areas near the lake and trailheads.

Address:

46W072 Jericho Rd, Big Rock, IL 60511
Phone: 630-232-1242

Location:

Elburn, IL

Highlights:

Want to wander through blooming prairie and shaded maple forests with your pup in tow? Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve is a serene and scenic spot that’s especially magical in late summer.

We Recommend This For:

Birdwatchers, hikers, pet owners, nature photographers, and anyone who enjoys quiet, seasonal walks through prairie and woodland.

What we Love:

The prairie in full bloom from July to September, nesting birds in the canopy, and the pet-friendly trails that wind through meadows and forest.

• Visit between July and September to see the sloping prairie and wildflowers in peak bloom alongside lush meadows and mature maple trees.
• Observe local wildlife and migratory birds nesting high in the treetops—great for binocular-toting birders!
• Enjoy peaceful activities like hiking, horseback riding, and cycling through this expansive preserve.
• Bring your leashed furry friends—pets are welcome to join the outdoor fun on all trails.

Cost:

Free entry

Distance from Geneva, IL:

Approximately 12 miles west—about a 20-minute drive

How to Get to Blackberry Maples:

From Geneva, take IL-38 W to Main Street Road in Elburn. The preserve entrance is clearly marked and offers parking near trailheads.

Address:

43W231 Main St, Elburn, IL 60119
Phone: 630-232-5980

Location:

Ottawa, IL

Highlights:

Looking for blufftop views, rugged trails, and a back-to-basics camping experience? Buffalo Rock State Park delivers all that and more—with sweeping panoramas of the Illinois River and endless ways to explore the outdoors.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, campers, hunters, geocachers, minimalist adventurers, and anyone looking for unforgettable views and natural serenity.

What we Love:

The panoramic bluff views, secluded primitive campsites, and the variety of year-round activities from biking to cross-country skiing.

• Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, camping, geocaching, and hunting (in designated seasons and zones).
• Camp at one of three primitive campsites—accessible only by foot or bike—for a true off-the-grid experience with just a fire ring and nature all around.
• Marvel at sweeping views from the bluff, which was once an island in the Illinois River—perfect for sunrise photos or quiet reflection.
• Explore the many scenic trails and reconnect with nature in a quiet, uncrowded park just minutes from Ottawa’s conveniences.

Cost:

Free entry; free but limited primitive camping (first-come, first-served)

Distance from Starved Rock State Park:

Roughly 5 miles west—just a 10-minute drive

How to Get to Buffalo Rock:

From Ottawa, head west on Dee Bennett Road (N 27th Rd). The park entrance is clearly marked with parking near the main bluff and trailheads.

Address:

1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350
Phone: 815-433-2224

Illinois State Parks for Families

Location:

Spring Grove, IL

Highlights:

Love water adventures and wooded trails? Chain O' Lakes State Park is a dream destination for boaters, campers, and horseback riders, all tucked between beautiful lakes and rivers in the heart of Illinois.

We Recommend This For:

Boaters, campers, equestrians, families, and anyone looking for a getaway with water, trails, and wide-open space to roam.

What we Love:

The lakeside setting, extensive trail systems, and the variety of camping options—from cabins to over 230 campsites.

• Explore the park’s own 44-acre lake and nearby bodies of water like the Fox River and Grass Lake—offering access to 488 miles of shoreline.
• Hike or ride one of four trail systems, including more than 8 miles of equestrian trails for horseback riders.
• Relax in one of seven shaded picnic areas, or set up base for the weekend with over 230 campsites and three cozy rental cabins.
• Launch your boat, cast a fishing line, or paddle the scenic water routes that make this park one of the top aquatic destinations in the region.

Cost:

Free entry; camping and cabin rentals have additional fees

Distance from Chicago:

About 60 miles northwest—roughly a 1.5-hour drive

How to Get to Chain O' Lakes State Park:

From Chicago, take I-94 W to IL-173 W, then head north on Wilmot Road. The park entrance is well-marked and includes parking, boat launches, and campground access.

Address:

8916 Wilmot Road, Spring Grove IL 60081
Phone: 847-587-5512

Location:

De Witt, IL

Highlights:

Looking for a spot where you can camp under the stars, cast a line from a boat, or lounge on a sandy beach? Clinton Lake State Recreation Area blends peaceful nature with big-lake adventure across thousands of acres of scenic Illinois wilderness.

We Recommend This For:

Anglers, campers, boaters, swimmers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want both water and land-based recreation in one destination.

What we Love:

The expansive 4,900-acre lake, vibrant boating scene, family-friendly facilities, and the variety of ways to enjoy fishing and camping.

• Fish for bass and catfish from your boat, the shoreline, or the designated fishing pier—plenty of options for every skill level.
• Boat across a lake filled with sailboats, motorboats, and plenty of space for water fun—it’s one of central Illinois’ busiest boating destinations.
• Swim at the sandy beach, hike scenic trails, or enjoy a lakeside picnic while kids play at nearby playgrounds.
• Camp at one of the many sites for a full weekend retreat, or explore designated hunting areas for deer, rabbit, and pheasant during season.

Cost:

Free park entry; fees apply for camping, boating, and select facilities

Distance from Bloomington, IL:

About 30 miles south—approximately a 40-minute drive

How to Get to Clinton Lake:

From Bloomington, take IL-54 west to De Witt, then follow signs to Ranger Road. The park entrance is clearly marked and includes multiple parking and boat launch areas.

Address:

7251 Ranger Rd, De Witt, IL 61735
Phone: 217-935-8722

Location:

Franklin Grove, IL

Highlights:

Looking for a hidden gem with springs, cliffs, and hardwood forest? Franklin Creek State Natural Area is a pristine, photo-worthy preserve packed with natural beauty and teeming with wildlife.

We Recommend This For:

Nature photographers, hikers, birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to explore untouched Illinois landscapes.

What we Love:

The natural springs, diverse habitats, and the 198-acre nature preserve that’s a magnet for both wildlife and your camera lens.

• Explore 882 acres of protected land featuring hardwood forests, natural springs, rocky outcroppings, and a pristine creek ecosystem.
• Visit the 198-acre dedicated nature preserve—perfect for quiet reflection, hiking, or capturing nature with your camera.
• Spot wildlife such as woodpeckers, warblers, fox squirrels, raccoons, and deer. Franklin Creek itself is home to nearly 20 fish species.
• Enjoy scenic trails and natural serenity in a lesser-known Illinois treasure that feels wild, peaceful, and rich with biodiversity.

Cost:

Free entry

Distance from Rockford, IL:

Approximately 35 miles southeast—about a 45-minute drive

How to Get to Franklin Creek:

From Rockford, take US-20 W to IL-26 S, then follow signs to Franklin Grove. Turn onto Twist Road to reach the park entrance.

Address:

1872 Twist Rd, Franklin Grove, IL 61031

Location:

Chicago, IL

Highlights:

If Central Park is the soul of New York, Grant Park is the beating heart of Chicago. Known as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” this iconic 313-acre urban oasis sits along the lakefront in the city’s bustling central business district.

We Recommend This For:

Art lovers, city explorers, museum-goers, photographers, festival fans, and anyone looking for a peaceful patch of green in the Windy City.

What we Love:

The jaw-dropping Buckingham Fountain, world-class museums on-site, skyline views, and legendary summer events.

• Marvel at the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain—built in 1927, it's one of the largest fountains in the world and a stunning photo spot.
• Visit top cultural landmarks right inside the park, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum Campus.
• Relax in beautifully manicured gardens or play on the park’s tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and designated sports fields.
• Join seasonal events like The Taste of Chicago or the Grant Park Music Festival—iconic gatherings that bring the park to life.

Cost:

Free entry; individual attractions may have admission fees

Distance from Millennium Park:

Directly adjacent—just a short walk south

How to Get to Grant Park:

Easily accessible via CTA trains and buses; nearby parking garages are available. Enter from Columbus Drive or Michigan Avenue for the most direct access to major attractions.

Address:

Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-742-3918