Great River Road

This scenic drive follows the flow of the mighty Mississippi River as it curves along the western edge of Illinois and meanders for more than 550 miles, traveling through charming small towns and offering beautiful river and woodland views along the way.

CITY: Fulton

The Nest at Palisades Cabins

The Nest at Palisades Cabins offer secluded luxury cabins designed to provide charm, quiet luxury and romance. We’re located on a wooded acreage high above the Mississippi River minutes from Savanna, the Palisades State Park and an easy 20 minute drive to Galena.

CITY: Savanna

Black Hawk Statue at Lowden State Park

At Eagle's Nest Bluff in Lowden State Park, proudly stands a 48-foot statue of a Native American quietly revering the beauty of the River Rock Valley below. Commonly called Black Hawk, after the legendary Chieftain, the statue was created as a tribute to all the Native Americans who once called the area their home.

CITY: Oregon

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Untouched by glaciers that left their mark elsewhere in the state, this park is rich with rock formations carved by erosion. The park features pileated woodpeckers, migratory waterfowl and other wildlife species.

CITY: Savanna

White Pines Forest State Park

Enjoy recreation on 385 acres, much of it forest, with a state park lodge and provisions for tent and trailer camping. It is also noted for its vine-covered limestone bluffs.

CITY: Mount Morris

Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary

Tour Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. Personally guided tours are available seven days a week year round for up to six people per tour, but all tours are by appointment. Animal lovers can learn about, pet, hold and feel some of the 350 rescued animals, comprised of 30 different species. All income supports the rescued animals. Critter Camp is a non-profit, tax exempt, charitable, volunteer operated, no-kill facility that does not buy, breed, sell or exploit any animal.

CITY: German Valley

Long's Garden

Tour the walk-through gardens and browse the nursery selling 170 different ornamental grasses, trees and shrubs.

CITY: Fulton

Krape Park

This beautiful Freeport park offers an antique carousel, waterfall, seasonal duck pond, miniature golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a quarter mile nature trail, paddle boats, canoes, fishing, hiking, biking, a performance amphitheater, gardens, picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds including "Kid's Kastle", and sledding in the winter. The Yellow Creek Adventure Golf Course (miniature golf) is open daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day from Noon to Dusk. The Disc Golf Course is open during regular park hours and is free to play. The carousel is open prior to Memorial Day on weekends from Noon to Dusk and from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is open daily from Noon to Dusk. Yellow Creek boat rentals, including the duck paddle boats or the larger swan boat, are available daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day weekend from Noon to Dusk. Park attractions are open seasonally; call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions.

CITY: Freeport

Mt. Carroll Garden Walk

Stroll the brick streets and enjoy unique historic architecture while viewing beautiful flower, perennial and water gardens. Garden vendors and a farmer's market will be stationed in the Courthouse Square.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Mississippi River Lodge

Our Mississippi River Lodge is located right on the banks on the Mighty Mississippi River between Savanna and Thomson Illinois and offers awe-inspiring views from every angle. We offer 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, living room with fireplace & big screen TV, deck with grill, a fully stocked kitchen and much more! If you are a river lover, this is the place for you. Fishing, water skiing, tubing, or cruising up the river, it's all here for your enjoyment. Since we are located on Big Slough, off of the main channel of the river, you can have fun without having to deal with a lot of river traffic. Access to the main channel is easy if you want to cruise the river. Only five miles up the river is Lower Sabula Lake which offers a great new sand beach. There is a public boat launch only a quarter mile from the house and a dock is provided to moor your boat at the house. If you do not have a boat, you can fish off the dock or the bank.

CITY: Thomson

Tj's Canoe Rentals

Enjoy a day on the beautiful Rock River. Take a 5 mile or 12 mile trip or canoe camp on the river. TJ's is 'Doin Canoein' on the Rock!. Check website for hours and months of operation.

CITY: Oregon

Sherwood Forest

During Christmas, Sherwood Forest is adorned with decorations and twinkling lights. Any time of year view a variety of animals, including turkeys, rabbits, peacocks, llamas, and miniature goats and deer.

CITY: Prophetstown

Rock River Miniatures

This miniature horse farm is located in Whiteside County.

CITY: Rock Falls

Huff's Miniature Horses

Observe a small herd of miniature horses, and even groom the patient ones. Be sure to call and make a reservation.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Scenic Bluff Ranch

Situated in the majestic hills of Savanna on more than 350 acres with access to over 24 miles of trails, Scenic Bluff Ranch is a fun and friendly haven, with a caring atmosphere, which makes riding horses a pleasure. Established in 1997 and designed with horse and rider in mind, we cater to all disciplines and breeds and we have plenty to offer everyone; from the inexperienced to the seasoned rider. Ride our trails with your horse or rent our facility for your event.

CITY: Savanna

Oakdale Nature Preserve

This Nature Preserve offers 133 acres of oak and hickory woodlands, restored prairies and shallow streams. Over four miles of winding trails are great for hiking, running, cross-country skiing, nature study and quiet reflection. Facilities, which are available to rent, include the Mogle Learning Center with meeting space for 20 people, a lodge with a kitchen and dining hall that can seat up to 80. The Oakdale Octagon Shelter has seating for up to 350 and a stage. Two picnic shelters as well as other picnic tables are available.

CITY: Freeport

Oppold Marina

Offers boat access to the Rock River, with a 50-ft. renovated boat launch. During the summer season, offers boat gas, concessions, paddleboat/rowboat/canoe rentals as well as 2 large shelters for family reunions and parties,

CITY: Sterling

Jane Addams Recreation Trail

This multi-use 15 mile recreational trail offers beautiful scenery and is highlighted by 21 decked bridges passing over and through wetlands, creeks, woods, prairies, geologic formations and farmland. The trail is part of the Grand Illinois Trail that traverses Northern Illinois. Its crushed limestone surface may be used by hikers, bicyclist, snowmobilers, and cross-country skiers. An additional two miles of paved trail to Highway 26 has been constructed at the southern end. The final two mile connection into historic downtown Freeport will soon be under construction. The Jane Addams Trail connects at the Wisconsin state-line with Badger Trail which extends to Madison, Wisconsin. It will also connect, in downtown Freeport, with the Pecatonica Prairie path currently under development between Freeport and Rockford. Access to the trail is available at the Wes Block Access, Freeport (exit off Highway 26 1/4 miles south of the Highway 20 intersection).

CITY: Freeport

Robert F. Apple - Fishing Guide

Fishing guide - muskies, walleyes; all equipment furnished.

CITY: Chadwick

Lowell Park

Featuring 240 acres, Nature Center, parking, boat launches and Rock River access, fishing, hiking, nature preserve, cross-country skiing, shelters, grills, playground equipment, and more. Ronald Reagan saved 77 lives here as a lifeguard during his boyhood years.

CITY: Dixon

4 Seasons Bowling Center

This is a 40-lane bowling center with automatic scoring, Thunder Alley sound and light experience, which is open to the public. Jumping Joe's Sports Bar & Grill, Flip Pizza Restaurant, & full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Lakewood Resort and Gardens

Sportsman's paradise. Permanent wooded seasonal sites, tent camping. Acres of remote backpacking. Guided deer hunting (archery only), turkey hunt.

CITY: Savanna

Andrew's Mill Park

Picnic area, pond for fishing & ice skating with handicap accessible fishing pier, Gerald Strohecker natural area with native woodland, prairie and wetland.

CITY: Pearl City

Cross Creek Golf Course

This nine-hole golf course features a pro shop, bar, snack bar and putting green.

CITY: Morrison

Mount Carroll Bowling Center

Join us for bowling -- stay for the fun! Full-service bowling center plus cosmic bowling, leagues and restaurant with daily specials. We can also host birthday parties.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Wetlands Preserve

57-acre wetlands preserve features wildflower, birds, and wildlife, which may be viewed from an observation deck.

CITY: Freeport

Paone's Blackhawk Lanes

This bowling alley features 20 lanes, a pro shop and a lounge.

CITY: Sterling

Great River Bike Trail

The bike trail in Fulton is one small section of the Great River Trail, which spans from Rock Island to Savanna (60 mi.).

CITY: Fulton

Lowden-Miller State Forest

A 2,225-acre state forest situated along the Rock River. Enjoy hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing and equestrian trails.

CITY: Oregon

Deer Valley Golf Club

Located just 10 miles south of Rock Falls, Deer Valley is a challenging 18-hole championship golf course.

CITY: Deer Grove

4 Season Bowling Center

40-lane center with automatic scoring. Jumpin' Joe's Sports Bar & Grill and full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Silver Ridge Golf Course

Silver Ridge is an 18-hole public golf course.

CITY: Oregon

Hansens Hideaway Ranch & Campground

Tents, pop-ups and RV camping sites with water and electric hookups, swimming, nature trails, arcade, snack bar, playground, horseshoe pits, covered pavilion, restrooms, showers, sanitary dumping station, fire rings, firewood, and ice available.

CITY: Oregon

Read Park

Read Park offers many recreational opportunities and is highlighted by the Read Park Family Aquatic Center, which includes a zero depth pool, water slides and play area, and by a state of the art 11,000 square foot skate park, SK8 Park. This scenic park also features baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, an outdoor lighted hockey and ice staking rink, concession stand, picnic areas, shelters, and playgrounds. The Morgan Memorial, a charming statue of two children surrounded by fountains, is a serene spot to enjoy. Park attractions are open seasonally; please call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions and costs.

CITY: Freeport

Lake LaDonna Family Campground

Family campground with cabins.

CITY: Oregon

Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area

1,188 acres of natural beauty. Fishing on Rock River and hunting.

CITY: Prophetstown

Friends Forever Humane Society Dog Park

Take your dog to this special 10 acre fenced dog park with a pond (for dog swimming ony). The park also offers a separate fenced area for small dogs and a dog agility equipment area. Fee is $5.00 per dog per day.

CITY: Freeport

Eilert's Tee Box

Play golf on over 50 resort courses from throughout the world at this premier indoor golf facility, offering high-definition video full-swing golf simulators. Also enjoy the cocktail lounge offering a bistro sandwich menu in a quaint, comfortable atmosphere.

CITY: Freeport

Van Raden Memorial Park

The Van Raden Memorial Park features Lake Baalton, a three acre man-made lake stocked with bass, crappie, blue gill and catfish. A small shelter and playground area are also offered. A Veterans Memorial honoring all German Valley area service men and women, past or present is at the park

CITY: German Valley

Kent Park

Includes picnic and playground areas, a shelter, tennis court and basketball court.

CITY: Kent

River Road Camping and Marina

30-acre full-service campground with heated pool open to the public. Canoe rental, boat ramp and launch, gas, general store, volleyball, basketball, game room and playground.

CITY: Oregon

Fin and Feather Campground

Campground for camping, hunting, and fishing. Located on backwaters of Mississippi River with boat rental, canoe rental, motor rentals, bait shop, concessions and canoe access

CITY: Thomson

Morrison-Rockwood State Park

Timbered, 1150-acre state park with 77-acre lake stocked with a variety of fish. Class A, 92-site campground with shower building and all sites with electricity. Separate equestrian campground.

CITY: Morrison

Sandy Pine Elk Farm

Surrounded by a ridge covered with thousands of pine trees, Sandy Pine has some of the largest and top-ranked elk bulls in the Midwest. Take a tour through the pasture and snap some photos.

CITY: Deer Grove

All Veterans Memorial Park of Stephenson County

This park honors all of the veterans from Stephenson County. It contains large era stones from all conflicts. Benches surround concrete walkways, and a large brick memorial garden if featured. A Gold Star Family Memorial is dedicated to all who gave given their lives for our freedoms.

CITY: Freeport

Freeport Canoe Company LLC

Paddle the Pecatonica with The Freeport Canoe Company. We cater to group or individual canoeists, beginner or seasoned paddlers. At Freeport Canoe Company we offer family fun, scenic views, fishing, canoe transportation, and discounts for large groups. Enjoy canoeing from McConnell's Bobtown Landing to McNeil's Damascus Landing or to Tutty's Crossing in downtown Freeport. $50 rental per canoe. Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult; ages 16 to 18 must have a parental consent form. Call to set a date and time for your paddle, 815-233-1065 or 815-541-0869.

CITY: Freeport

White Pines Roller Rink

Fun for the entire family. Northern Illinois' largest roller rink. Top 40 music, live DJ, snack bar, arcade, complete supervision, birthday packages, private parties and group rates.

CITY: Mount Morris

Prophetstown Park District Pool & Recreational Center

Indoor/outdoor pool with aerobic classes and open swims. Rec Center has volleyball and basketball courts.

CITY: Prophetstown

Emerald Hill Golf and Learning Center

This golf complex features an 18-hole course.

CITY: Sterling

Taylor Park - Freeport

Taylor Park was originally a trotting-horse track and gives this park its oval shape and flat terrain. There are picnic areas shelters, playground areas, a three-diamond lighted softball complex, a tennis court, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. A concession stand is open during softball season.

CITY: Freeport

Fitness Lifestyles

This state of the art fitness center offers indoor swimming, cardio equipment, free weights, circuit training, massage therapy, an indoor walking and jogging track, nursery, a woman's only area, over 40 weekly fitness and aquatic classes, and more.

CITY: Freeport

Emerald Acres Campground

Offers 60 sites with electrical & water; also 90 permanent sites as well as tent sites.

CITY: Pearl City

Jim Ardvini Boat Launch Park

Boat ramps into Lake Sinnissippi area of Rock River. Picnic tables, scenic river view, adjacent to Hennepin Canal State Park.

CITY: Rock Falls

Ben Miller Memorial Park

This park provides a quiet scenic area ideal for family reunions and group gatherings. A large and a small shelter house, softball diamond, volleyball and basketball courts, playground, and wooded area are offered. A concession stand is open during softball season.

CITY: German Valley

Joseph Westwood Memorial Park

Picnic and playground areas, shelters, tennis courts, ball diamonds, plus a recreation building.

CITY: Pearl City

Blue Goose Run

Blue Goose Run is the perfect farm setting for an outdoor wedding, family or class reunion, corporate or business meetings, and baby or bridal showers. Visit the Machine Shed Gift Shop and Corn Crib Restaurant.

CITY: Sterling

Lost Nation Golf Club

This beautiful 18-hole course with large, smooth greens and rolling hills is open to the public, and offers a pro shop and restaurant.

CITY: Dixon

Hideaway Park

Large, wooded park offers 43 acres of timber, grassland & bottomland with picnic and playground areas, hiking trails, canoe launch, handicapped accessible shelters and restrooms.

CITY: Pearl City

Prophet Hills Country Club

Built in 1966, this semi-private, 18-hole golf course is situated on extremely hilly terrain, and features a putting green and chipping area.

CITY: Prophetstown

Eagle Point Horseback Riding Farm & Eagle Point Paintball Games

Horseback riding for young and old. Trails follow Elkhorn Creek. Great for the more experienced rider. Paintball field is on island off Elkhorn Creek.

CITY: Milledgeville

Leisure Lake Campground

68 full hookup sites, of which 32 are pull-thru. All are 20 & 30 amp. Hookup (50 amp available), pay phones, full laundry.

CITY: Rock Falls

Ruffit Park

Located west of Sterling & Rock Falls on Rt. 30 & 2.

CITY: Sterling

Green River State Wildlife Area

Green River is the best remaining example of the wetland-prairie mosaic that once covered the area's nearly 1 million acres of lowlands. This multiple-use site provides hunting, hiking, and birding opportunities.

CITY: Harmon

Prophetstown State Recreation Area

Boat ramp, shower facilities, picnic grounds and RV dump station. Playground equipment.

CITY: Prophetstown

Spring Valley Farm

Spring Valley Farm is home to Jersey cows, alpacas, sheep, Belgian horses, chickens and goats. Farm tours and hayrack rides by appointment only.

CITY: Fulton

Rock River Valley Skydivers, Inc.

Student training. Tandem & sport/fun jumping. Demonstration jumping for events. USPA group member drop zone. Two Cessna C182 jump planes, visitors welcomed. Located at the Whiteside County Airport.

CITY: Rock Falls