13 Best State Parks In Illinois (2023)
Looking to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life? Then look no further than our comprehensive list of the best 13 state parks in Illinois! Boasting stunning scenic vistas, lush woodlands, serene lakes, and a host of outdoor activities, these parks have something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an action-packed adventure, these state parks in Illinois are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
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Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Looking for a stunning outdoor experience in Illinois? Look no further than Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park. Not only does this park boast a unique geological structure and flowers, but it also offers spectacular views of Lake Michigan with its dunes and beaches.
In 1948, the state acquired the first parcels of what is now this park. Nowadays, Illinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers can use too.
Aside from hiking trails, you’ll find plenty of other recreational activities in this park such as biking, fishing, swimming, camping, and more.
Apple River Canyon State Park
If you’re looking for a captivating outdoor escape, Apple River Canyon State Park in Illinois is the perfect spot. Located in the hilly northwest corner of the state (just near the Wisconsin border), this park is a must-visit for anyone seeking peace and solace.
Nestled within 1,907 acres of verdant land lies a piece of geological history, born from the remnants of an ancient sea that spanned from the Alleghenies to the Rockies. Today, it boasts awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, dramatic ravines, sparkling springs, burbling streams, and a diverse array of wildlife. Embark on an adventure along one of its five captivating trails – Pine Ridge, Tower Rock, River Route, Sunset, or Primrose Trail – as they meander through the lush forest for miles on end, offering a window into this unique and stunning park.
Aside from hiking trails and beautiful views of nature, visitors can also enjoy camping sites and fishing spots in this serene area. There are also hunting areas and plenty of picnic spots available.
Big River State Forest
Want something more tranquil? Then head to Big River State Forest in western Illinois. Located in Henderson County, 8 miles north of Oquawka, this remarkable forest has been managed primarily to demonstrate sound forestry practices – and if you’re interested, you can learn more about these practices with demonstrations and talks.
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Illinois, Big River State Forest stands as a beacon of preservation – a surviving fragment of the grand prairie woodland that once blanketed much of the state. This picturesque haven is also a refuge for two rare and endangered species – the penstemon, also known as the bearded tongue, and Patterson’s bindweed. With its abundant greenery and serene atmosphere, Big River State Forest is the epitome of a serene escape, beckoning nature enthusiasts to embark on an outdoor journey amidst its breathtaking beauty.
You’ll likely want to explore the 3 1/2-mile hike on 3 trails – Lincolns Trail, Wilderness Trail, and Big Pines Trail. Additionally, there’s the 60-mile network of firebreaks – ideal for hikers, backpackers, birders, and nature study groups alike. The park also offers boating, camping, equestrian trails, fishing, hiking trails, and hunting.
Cave-in-Rock State Park
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines mystery and natural beauty, Cave-in-Rock State Park in Illinois is the place to go. Sitting atop high bluffs overlooking the stunning Ohio River, this heavily wooded park is named for its 55-foot wide cave carved out of limestone rock by water thousands of years ago.
In addition to its magnificent subterranean wonders, the park offers a wealth of opportunities to delve into nature’s splendor and feast your eyes on panoramic vistas. Take a stroll along one of two moderate-difficulty hiking trails or wander off the beaten path on any of the numerous unmarked trails for a more intimate and solitary experience. The park also provides ample amenities to enhance your stay, including camping, fishing, geocaching, and metal detecting.
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to boat, fish, camp and relax, Clinton Lake State Recreation Area should top your list. Located in east central Illinois, this 9,300-acre park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities.
At the heart of the park is Clinton Lake – a 4,900-acre lake with plenty of accessible boat launches and fishing piers scattered around it. Anglers will love this spot, as it’s teeming with crappie, catfish, bass, and walleye.
The park also offers plenty of other activities such as archery range, cross-country skiing, dog training, equestrian trails, hunting, jet skiing, scuba diving and more. Hikers will find their bliss on the 9.3-mile North Fork Hiking Trail near Route 54 – rated as difficult due to its steep wooded banks but providing unparalleled views of the lake and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Eagle Creek State Park
For those seeking a nature escape close to civilization, look no further than Eagle Creek State Park. Conveniently situated in the heart of east central Illinois and only a stone’s throw away from cities such as Springfield, Decatur, Champaign, Effingham, and the surrounding areas, this sprawling 11,100-acre park boasts a wealth of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a tranquil escape, Eagle Creek State Park has something for everyone. Set sail on a boating excursion, cast your line for a day of fishing or hit the links for a round of golf. Hike along one of the three marked nature trails for a peaceful stroll, or tackle the 12-mile Illini Trail for an adventurous trek. And if you’re visiting during the winter, fear not! The park offers plenty of wintry fun, including snowmobiling and cross-country skiing on the three-mile ski trail.
Fox Ridge State Park
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with Fox Ridge State Park. Located in east-central Illinois near Charleston, this park is perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors. Its 2,064 acres are filled with steep wooded ridges, lush valleys, and 8 miles of meandering trails.
For a truly unforgettable experience, make sure to visit the staircase to Eagle’s Nest which climbs 144 steps up to a deck with amazing views of the Embarras River below. Along your hike around the park, look out for wildlife like foxes, squirrels, turkey vultures and more – not to mention all the lush foliage!
Apart from hiking trails, Fox Ridge also has plenty of other amenities such as camping sites, canoeing spots, cross-country skiing; equestrian trails; fishing; geocaching; hunting grounds; as well as shelter reservations.
Giant City State Park
For an outdoor escape that’s truly unforgettable, look no further than Giant City State Park near Carbondale. It’s a paradise for outdoor lovers of all ages, with activities ranging from camping and horseback riding to fishing and even rappelling.
Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, the park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the many hiking trails, including the much-loved Giant City Nature Trail, where you’ll come across the awe-inspiring “Giant City Streets” – massive bluffs of sandstone that date back 12,000 years. Surround yourself with the lush greenery of ferns, mosses, and hundreds of species of wildflowers, and be awed by the towering trees that dot the landscape.
For a bit of fun, there are archery ranges to hunting grounds, there’s something for everyone here. There are 85 campsites for those looking for an overnight stay, and horseback riding enthusiasts will find an equestrian campground with a 12-mile loop trail. Rock climbers can head over to two designated areas, or escape on foot along one of the park’s many trails.
Hidden Springs State Forest
If you’re looking for a secluded outdoor escape, Hidden Springs State Forest in Strasburg is the perfect spot. The property is home to seven springs, which were used for drinking water by early settlers. While these springs are now covered over by nature, two of them – Rocky Spring and Quicksand Spring – have access trails so you can still check them out.
This park offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained – from camping and fishing to hiking, hunting, and picnicking. One of the highlights is the Big Tree Trail, a one-mile track featuring an impressive 78-inch sycamore – one of the biggest in Illinois!
Whether you’re trying to get a little peace and quiet or just want to explore some of nature’s wonders, Hidden Springs State Forest is worth checking out!
Lake Murphysboro State Park
If you’re looking for an outdoor escape that’s full of natural beauty and plenty of activities, then Lake Murphysboro State Park in Illinois is the place for you. Located in Jackson County about 1 mile west of Murphysboro off Route 149, this 1,022-acre park is surrounded by rolling hills and woods, creating a picturesque backdrop for boating, fishing, picnicking, camping, and hiking.
For campers who want to make the most of their stay at Lake Murphysboro, there are well-equipped sites located in scenic areas of the park. There are also 20 tent sites available for those who want to get back to nature.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore one of the park’s 3-mile designated trails or make their own path with several paths criss-crossing through the wooded hills. And if you’re an animal lover or birdwatcher, keep your eyes peeled – you may spot some wildlife!
Matthiessen State Park
One of the most popular parks in Illinois – and for good reason. Located in LaSalle County and close to Utica and Oglesby, this park offers a breathtaking combination of canyons, streams, prairie, and forest – making it ideal for those who love geology or just an outdoor adventure.
Take a stroll along the 5 miles of well-marked hiking trails for a relaxing walk or a vigorous hike. You’ll find large trail maps located at all major intersections so you can pick from multiple routes. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a path down into the two dells? Just make sure to stay on marked trails due to steep cliffs and deep canyons!
In addition to the hiking trails, Matthiessen State Park also offers other activities such as archery range, camping, cross-country skiing, equestrian trails, fishing, geocaching, hunting, and mountain bike trails. All these features make Matthiessen State Park one of the most popular spots in Illinois.
Rock Cut State Park
Located in the far north of Illinois, Rock Cut State Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty. With over 3,000 acres of rolling plains, incredible wildlife, and two lakes – Pierce Lake and Olson Lake – it’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular parks in the state.
The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, such as waterfowl, deer, fox, muskrat, woodchuck and beaver, opossum, raccoon and both gray and fox squirrels. It also has over 100 types of wildflowers that put on a captivating show from spring to summer. Plus during fall months, you can admire the beautiful hardwood trees.
In terms of recreational activities, Rock Cut State Park offers plenty for everyone. There are bike trails for cycling enthusiasts; fishing spots for anglers; geocaching sites; hunting grounds; dog training areas; equestrian trails; swimming facilities; hiking trails; metal detecting sites – the list goes on!
Starved Rock State Park
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Starved Rock State Park in Utica for a natural retreat like no other. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and an abundance of wildlife, marvel at the towering walls of moss-covered sandstone bluffs, and traverse the over 13 miles of trails. There’s something for everyone at this stunning park.
Take in the stunning views of the Illinois River and explore the park’s 18 canyons that were formed by glacial meltwater. As you make your way through the trails, make sure to keep an eye out for cascading waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and impressive overlooks. And if you want to learn about the area’s history, don’t forget to check out Hopewellian, Woodland, and Mississippian Native American cultures that called this region home since 8000 B.C.
Beyond hiking trails, Starved Rock State Park also offers a variety of activities such as boating, camping, cross-country skiing, equestrian trails, fishing, geocaching, hunting, and more!
