Starved Rock State Park

Seasonal waterfalls, awe-inspiring bluffs and rugged canyons dominate the storied landscape at Starved Rock. Rich with history and beauty, Starved Rock’s hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River. Outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, paddleboat cruises, cross-country skiing, trolley rides, fishing and picnicking. Visitors can stay at the historic Starved Rock Lodge or in one of its cozy cabins.

CITY: Utica

Garden of the Gods

Explore the dramatic rock formations, cliffs and trails of the most visited site in the Shawnee National Forest. Millions of years in the making, the Garden of the Gods provides spectacular views unlike anywhere in the Midwest. See Camel Rock, Anvil Rock, Devil's Smoke Stack and other magnificent rock formations in this hiker’s and photographer’s wonderland.

CITY: Karbers Ridge

Shawnee National Forest

The Shawnee National Forest is famed for its awesome Garden of the Gods, and is home to the Rim Rock Recreational Trail (the forest has a system of 403 miles of equestrian/hiking trails). Hikers are greeted by magnificent jutting walls of rock covered with emerald-green moss, and paths that meander through canyons under the forest canopy. Nestled between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the stunning Shawnee National Forest landscape features rolling hills, lakes, creeks and rugged bluffs.

CITY: Harrisburg

Tunnel Hill State Trail

This scenic 45-mile-long hiking and biking trail runs along a converted rail bed through farmland, hills/bluffs and bottomland areas.The trail passes through the Shawnee National Forest and Cache River State Natural Area, with railroad trestles and an old train tunnel as picturesque markers along the way.

CITY: Vienna

Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins

Nestled in the beautiful hills of the Shawnee National Forest, Timber Ridge offers something for everyone, from families and honeymooners to outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy some Southern hospitality while staying in a real log cabin or one-of-a-kind treehouse. Each of the units, including the treehouse, is equipped with a bathroom, kitchenette, heating and air conditioning.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Chicago Botanic Garden

One of metropolitan Chicago's main tourist attractions. Open year-round, featuring 23 beautiful gardens and three native habitats set on 385 acres of rolling hills and tranquil lakes. Enjoy three lush greenhouses and seasonal art exhibits.

CITY: Glencoe

Starved Rock Lodge

Starved Rock Lodge is surrounded by beautiful Starved Rock State Park. Explore 2,630 acres of forests, 13 miles of hiking trails, canyons, bluffs and seasonal waterfalls in Utica, IL. Plan your winter getaway today! We have comfortable hotel rooms, cabins in the woods, a 2-sided fireplace in the Great Hall, an indoor pool and more. Relax in the Back Door Lounge, Trailheads Concessions or at the Starved Rock Cafe. The Dining Room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (with a fantastic Sunday Brunch).

CITY: Oglesby

Wildlife Prairie State Park

Wildlife Prairie State Park is home to over 150 animals that are native to Illinois, including wolves, bison, black bear, elk and cougars. Experience the Adventure Trek Tour, which includes a trip through the bison and elk pasture. Unique overnight lodging located in the park includes authentic train cabooses and a cabin nestled in the woods.

CITY: Hanna City

Morton Arboretum

Magnificent, 1,700-acre museum of trees and plants from around the world. Hiking trails, paved roads, restaurant, gift shop, open-air tram and handicapped accessible facilities. A perfect place to visit this fall.

CITY: Lisle

Giant City State Park

Spectacular woodlands and sheer sandstone walls create a challenge for rock climbing and rappelling, as well as hiking. Outdoor lovers will also find horseback riding, a lookout tower, cabins and a swimming pool. Dine at historic Giant City Lodge, known for its homemade fried chicken dinner.

CITY: Makanda

Pomona Natural Bridge

This natural geologic sandstone formation spans 90 feet across a ravine in a mature beech, oak and hickory forest. Nearby is an easy hiking trail dotted with picnic sites.

CITY: Pomona

Matthiessen State Park

Canyons, streams, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located in central LaSalle County, approximately four miles south of Utica and three miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for a special outing.

CITY: Utica

Black Hawk State Historic Site

Wonderful for families and friends, this wooded, steeply rolling 208-acre tract, borders the Rock River in the city of Rock Island. Prehistoric Indians and 19th-Century settlers made homes here, but the area is most closely identified with the Sauk nation and its great warrior, Black Hawk. Voted one of the "7 Wonders of Illinois," this pristine park offers beautiful trails for hiking and walking only. Picnic areas are also available. While at the park be sure to visit the Watch Tower Lodge that houses the John Hauberg Indian Museum. The museum features Sauk and Meskwaki Native American Indian artifacts and displays depicting the four seasons and life of these tribes. A new exhibit tells the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki—how they came to live in the Quad City area, why they no longer live here, and, as the piece de resistance, a four-by-eight-foot scale model of the city of Saukenuk one of the largest Native American Indian settlements in the United States.

CITY: Rock Island

Starved Rock Adventures Harbor Villas and Suites

Waterfront family villas and suites. 1-2 bedroom housekeeping units. Deluxe and unique. Open April through October. $$

CITY: Ottawa

Egyptian Hills Resort

Egyptian Hills Resort is your passport to the Ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether you are into waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sport fishing, or pleasure boating; the Lake of Egypt is a boater’s paradise. All within a stone’s throw of your cabin. Within minutes of your cabin, your family can enjoy guided expeditions such as; horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, geo-caching, wildlife photography and many other outdoor activities. Whether planning a single activity or multiple activities for your group, we at Egyptian Hills are your personal concierge in planning your ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether onsite or through one of our partner guides, all activities are tailored for all ages and experience levels.

CITY: Creal Springs

Cantigny Park

Consisting of the Robert McCormick Mansion Museum, the First Division Military Museum, ten acres of gardens and parks, 27-hole championship golf course and nine-hole Cantigny Youth Links.

CITY: Wheaton

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features 12 award-winning wineries located along a 25-mile scenic drive along highway 127 and highway 51 in the Shawnee National Forest. Along the way have a picnic, go on a hike, visit a shop, and stay in a cozy B&B or cabin. Many of the wineries host special events throughout the summer and fall.

CITY: Carbondale

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

At Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa go golfing on one of four championship courses, horseback riding along hilly wooded trails, boating on the sapphire waters of Lake Galena, or soaring over the countryside in a hot air balloon with Galena on the Fly. Relax in the luxury of the resort’s Stonedrift Spa with a pampering massage. Eagle Ridge offers a wide variety of lodging that ranges from traditional inn rooms to golf villas and distinctive homes.

CITY: Galena

Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center

The Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center has several interactive displays, free videos on the park, hiking maps, and more. Trailheads Concessions & Gifts, also located here, is a great place to buy gifts, souvenirs, and snacks (fresh fudge, too)! The Visitor Center and Trailheads are open year-round.

CITY: Utica

Southern Illinois Wine Trail

Illinois' newest wine trail connects six wineries dotted throughout the southeast corner of the state. Visitors can enjoy both breathtaking vistas and friendly rural communities, all while sampling excellent red and white wines.

CITY: Vienna

Galena River Trail

Scenic biking and hiking along a six-mile trail featuring beautiful views of the Galena River and towering bluffs.

CITY: Galena

Stone Creek Golf Club & Resort

Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, Stone Creek features an 18 hole-championship course and beautiful cabins. Stone Creek also offers a restaurant, clubhouse, and a scenic area for hiking and fishing.

CITY: Makanda

Southern Illinois Golf Trail

Golf is always in season on the Southern Illinois Golf Trail, where the mild weather allows for golfing nearly year round. Start putting in Marion and make the rounds through all five of the Trail courses—Kokopelli, Crab Orchard, Hickory Ridge, Stone Creek and Gambit—ending in the lush green hills of the Shawnee National Forest.

CITY: Carbondale

Bald Knob Cross

A national symbol of faith, this 111-foot-tall cross, when illuminated at night, can be seen over an area of 7,500 square miles atop the most prominent elevation in Southern Illinois. The cross is surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest.

CITY: Alto Pass

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

Forest Park Nature Center

500-acre Illinois nature preserve offering 7 miles of hiking trails ranging from rigorous uphill courses to flatter, less strenuous paths. The center also features a natural history museum, spacious bird watching room, nature hikes, guided walks and a nature store.

CITY: Peoria

Great River Trail

Sixty-two miles of riverfront biking trails run from Rock Island to Savanna. The trail is easily accessible along the riverfront in the Quad Cities, and bike rentals are available at the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau in Moline.

CITY: Rock Island

Matthiessen State Park - Cross Country Skiing

Five miles of scenic trails amidst a spectacular geological backdrop enable hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, runners and cross-country skiers to experience a peaceful jaunt through the park, while families congregate around fully-equipped, shaded picnic areas neighboring playgrounds, trailheads and 17th-Century restored French fort.

CITY: Utica

Shenandoah Riding Center

Experience the beautiful, scenic Galena outdoors atop a horse! Our center offers knowledgeable staff, well-trained horses in a lovely setting.

CITY: Galena

Paddle and Trail

Paddle and Trail is an independently owned, full service outdoor retailer and outfitter specializing in paddle sports, bicycling, trail runninng, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and adventure racing. Explore the beautiful waterways and trails of northern Illinois with Paddle and Trail trips. The store hosts the Regional Activity Center located beyind their building on Windsor Lake, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking and more water sport activities.

CITY: Loves Park

Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities

Adventure Quest of the Quad Cities is the perfect for fun-filled outdoor adventures. This 54-acre facility is located just off 1-80 & I-88 near East Moline IL. Make your reservations today and enjoy zip lines, panning for gems, hay rack rides, and wonderful hiking trails. This facility is also available for parties and corporate team building. An elegantly decorated 8,000 square foot banquet facility with an extensive menu is available. The facility also offers interactive games, inflatables, dunk tanks, water slides, laser tag, and more. Check out these annual fall events that include Pumpkin Festival the last weekend in September and the QC Haunted Forest every Friday & Saturday in October. Call (309) 523-3619 for reservations or more information.

CITY: Port Byron

Old Plank Road Trail

Old Plank Road is a 21-mile recreation and nature trail used by in-line skaters, walkers, runners, bikers, bicyclists and even cross-country skiers in the winter. This trail reaches from Park Forest all the way to Joliet.

CITY: Matteson

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a 155-acre “living museum” filled with spectacular gardens and rare trees. A handicapped-accessible paved path winds through the arboretum, and kids will have fun navigating the maze in the Children’s Garden.

CITY: Rockford

I&M Canal State Trail

Enjoy hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing, camping, snowmobiling, fishing, boating, canoeing and biking along the I&M Canal State Trail. This 61-mile recreational trail begins at Brandon Road in Rockdale and parallels the canal to LaSalle Peru.

CITY: Morris

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

Batavia Riverwalk

A 32-acre park built in cooperation with Batavia Park District, the city of Batavia and the Batavia Riverwalk Committee. Park your bikes by the Depot Museum and stroll the boardwalks through the wildflower garden.

CITY: Batavia

Phillips Park

Located on over 325 acres, popular attractions include the Mastodon Gallery, the gorgeous Sunken Garden, an 18-hole golf course/driving range, the zoo, a 28-acre fishing lake with a one-mile multiple use trail, war memorials and the Winter Recreation Area. Phillips Park Visitors Center & Mastodon Gallery showcases the mastodon bones that were unearthed in the park during a 1934 Civil Works Administration Project. The skull being the largest of the artifacts, weighs 188 pounds.

CITY: Aurora

North Branch Bicycle Trail

Bicyclists and hikers can travel this trail that runs from Caldwell and Devon Avenues in Chicago, to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. The 20-mile trail winds along the Chicago River past the Skokie Lagoons and through forest preserves.

CITY: Niles

Double M Campground / Cabins

We offer 2 cabins and 131 campsites. Enjoy the biking/running trails, bird/eagle watching, hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting, rock climbing, rappelling and the Shawnee National Forests.

CITY: Junction

Weber House and Garden

Historic home long associated with the rich and famous, Weber House sits in an English garden of meandering paths, hollyhocks and old oaks. Inside cozy candlelit rooms reflect the 18th century.

CITY: Streator

Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve

Lake of the Woods County Park is a 900-acre preserve that features an 18-hole regulation golf course, a 9-hole par 3 course and practice range, fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing, sledding, the HI-Tower bell carillon and observation area, a 3.3 mile bicycle/pedestrian path, the Museum of the Grand Prairie, Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens, a covered bridge, building rentals and various programs.

CITY: Mahomet

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

Argyle Lake State Park

Find serenity at this beautiful 1700-acre wooded park situated along an old stagecoach route between Galena and Beardstown. Featuring 95-acre Argyle Lake, the park is home to countless beaver dams and more than 200 bird species and 5 miles of hiking and biking trails.

CITY: Colchester

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park

3,300-acre peninsula in Rend Lake. Beautiful park offering boating, camping, and picnicking with shelters. Programs include pheasant hunting, field trials, and bass tournaments. Bicycle, horse trails, and stables.

CITY: Whittington

Fox River Bike Trail

Dawn until dusk, a 36 m. trail is the forefront of outdoor recreation passing through Elgin, St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia and Aurora. It winds along the banks of the Fox River through miles of prairie grass, overshadowing trees and blooming flowers.

CITY: Elgin

Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center

The Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center is a joint project of the Homewood-Flossmoor (HF Parks.com) and Olympia Fields (OF Parks.com) park districts. The near 40-acre nature preserve is home to a diversity of wildlife and habitat types. See beautiful woods, wildflowers, birds and furry friends along the way. There are trails along both sides of the park which is located at Vollmer and Western Avenues in Olympia Fields. Please be careful when crossing Vollmer Road. The Park is open to the public daily, sunrise to sunset

CITY: Olympia Fields

Matthiessen State Park

Enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing and more in this state park known for its waterfalls, bluffs and canyons.

CITY: Utica

Kosmic Acres Stables

Scenic trails rides for small groups of 1 to 6. From 2 to 4-hour rides and lunch rides offered. Basic grooming, saddling and riding instructions are given. By appointment only.

CITY: Alto Pass

Giant City Stables

Enjoy the beauty of Giant City State Park on horseback. All trail rides are guided by experienced wranglers. Lessons & pony rides also available.

CITY: Makanda

Great Western Trail

This 17-mile trail replaces the abandoned main line of the Chicago Great Western Railroad. It is a flat easy ride connecting the communities of St. Charles and Sycamore.

CITY: St. Charles

Geocaching Programs

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which the participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers (called "geocaches" or "caches"). Several are located at the Rivers Project and interested individuals can attend this free 1 hour program on Saturdays, June through August,to learn more and get involved in geocaching.

CITY: Alton

Cedar Lake Trail

A 10-mile trail on the west side of Cedar Lake from north to south. Encircles Little Cedar Lake.

CITY: Carbondale

General Dacey Trail

This trail is a multi-use recreational trail -- accessed mainly by walkers, runners, and bikers. As you move along the pathways of the Dacey Trail, you will find nature at its best -- with many scenic views of Lake Shelbyville. The trail is being added to and improved each year and runs through parts of Shelbyville, Forest Park, and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Shelbyville. You can begin the trail at Forest Park or at the Dam West Recreational Area (9th St.).

CITY: Shelbyville

Shoal Creek Nature Preserve

This 260-acre site offers nature trails for visitors to explore wetlands, prairie openings, and sandstone bluffs and ledges. The preserve is home to more than 700 plants and 70 bird species, including bald eagles during the winter months.

CITY: Litchfield

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center

Wilderness area, wildlife viewing, walking trails, special events, gift shop, campgrounds, fishing, boating, sailing, fishing tournaments; must get a "user pass" at Visitors Center for these lakes.

CITY: Marion

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

Boone County Conservation District

The enchanting charm of Boone County’s Buffalo Creek creates a picturesque scene of nature at its finest. With a mission of preserving nature for generations to come, the area offers numerous educational events and festivals.

CITY: Belvidere

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

Lincoln Prairie Trail

This paved hiking and biking trail follows a historic rail bed for 15 miles across the Illinois prairie.

CITY: Pana

Adams Wildlife Sanctuary

A green oasis located in the center of town, the sanctuary is open for hiking or strolling the one-mile nature trail from sunrise to sunset.

CITY: Springfield

Ballard Nature Center

Located just minutes outside of Effingham, Ballard Nature Center is home to dozens of species of birds and wildlife. Natural prairie, wetlands, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, ponds, and creeks round out the outdoor experience. Activities at the Nature Center includes trail walks, kids' fishing, bird watching, picnics, and much more. An indoor activity center provides plenty for the whole family to do any time of year.

CITY: Altamont

National Road Covered Bridge

The Embarras River, near Greenup, was the site of a covered bridge built by Abe and Thomas Lincoln and Dennis Hanks. The original bridge was 200 feet long. The reconstructed bridge was dedicated in 2000.

CITY: Greenup

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

Bicycle Trails - Aurora

More than 35 miles of trails, from Aurora to Crystal Lake, pass through scenic landscapes. Routes include the Fox River, Virgil Gilman and Red Oak Trails, and the Illinois Prairie Path.

CITY: Aurora

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

Lincoln Trail Homestead State Memorial

This is the site of Abraham Lincoln's first Illinois home. Bisected by the Sangamon River, the site also features picnicking and hiking.

CITY: Mount Zion

Austin Acres Kamp Outback

Affordable family lodging, cabins, campers and primitive camping. One cabin has kitchenette, covered shelter, air, tv/vcr, wood burning stove, electric and water shower available. One cabin has sleeping for six or more, electric, water, grill and shaded area. We have excellent walking and riding trails, 40 acres. Horses welcome. Lots of shaded areas for tent camping and fishing pond. We are minutes away from Ohio River, Tower Rock Park boat ramp, Elizabethtown boat ramp, good eating places, LakeTucumseh and Woopie Cat, Iron Furnace, Stone Face, Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Cave-in-Rock and lots of scenic views. Children and pets welcome.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Moraine Hills State Park

More than 10 miles of one-way trails throughout its 2,052 acres of rolling hills make Moraine Hills popular for hikers and bicyclists.

CITY: McHenry

Fox River Trail (St. Charles Illinois)

32 miles of biking, hiking and cross-country skiing featuring some of the most scenic trails of the Fox River. Points of interest include Carpenters Dam, Fox River Shores, Tyler Creek, Voyageur Landing, Shoemaker Nature Center and Fabyan Forest Preserve.

CITY: St. Charles

Kayak Morris

Less than 1 hour from Chicago. Providing unique rentals/guided tours/lessons and sandy beach camping. Kayaks, bikes and canoes on the Illinois River, Mazon River and I & M Canal/Towpath.

CITY: Morris

The Grove National Historic Landmark

This 124-acre nature preserve has walking trails, a nature center with live Illinois wildlife exhibits and five historic buildings.

CITY: Glenview

Big Creek Riding Stables

Private lessons and group lessons, trail riding (horses available to rent), and birthday parties. Registered horse show.

CITY: Decatur

Newton Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

This 1,775 acre lake features 540 acres of shoreline as a day use conservation area. Recreational activities include fishing, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and hunting.

CITY: Newton

Cedar Creek Ranch

Horseback Riding stables including public trail rides, boarding, birthday parties and holiday rides!! And more.

CITY: Cedar Point

Center Children's Farm

Experience life down on the farm during guided family tours, or take a hike on the peaceful nature trail.

CITY: Palos Park

Trailside Museum

Get in touch with nature in this beautiful wooded setting near the Des Plaines River, where you can view local wild animals that have been rescued from the surrounding area.

CITY: River Forest

Lincoln Trail Memorial

This memorial commemorates the crossing of the Lincoln Family from Indiana to Illinois in early March of 1830.

CITY: Lawrenceville

Glidden Park

Home to newly added in-line hockey rink. Sitting on 30 acres, five tennis courts, soccer field and basketball court, walking track 4 to 10 mile.

CITY: Collinsville

Drost Park

Drost Park features a 7-acre lake, pavilions, 1-mile walking trail, boat ramp, playground, and restroom facilities. The University of Illinois' Master Gardeners keep it seasonally beautiful.

CITY: Maryville

Devil's Backbone Horse Camp

Provides a scenic riding trail for riding enjoyment. Two acres fenced in for horses, several electrical and water hook-ups. Located west of Grand Tower, the site overlooks the Mississippi River. Horse trails are open year 'round.

CITY: Grand Tower

Camp Shaw

Camp Shaw was established in 1956 and is the best kept secret in all of beautiful Kankakee County! Camp Shaw is also a wonderful place to hold a variety of outdoor and indoor events. It provides overnight accommodation; horseback riding, guided trail rides or group lessons and weekend packages are available. It is also an outdoor, environmental science education program encouraging interest and participation in the balanced management of natural resources.

CITY: Manteno

Willowhaven Interpretive Center

A facility of the Bourbonnais Township Park District The Willowhaven Interpretive Center is a free hands-on museum that houses natural and historical exhibits provides the community a place to learn, explore, and enjoy the splendors of nature! Displays focus on Illinois wildlife, conservation and natural history. Their most popular displays include our hands-on discovery tables with pelts, nests, feathers, tracks and more. The center also has live animal displays, aquariums, children's reading nook, computer tables and microscope lab table.

CITY: Kankakee

Tapley Woods State Natural Area

Located 5 miles west of Elizabeth, IL, this 260 timbered acres provides public hunting areas, hiking and nature viewing.

CITY: Elizabeth

Cross Country Skiing at Rock Spring Center

Trails open whenever there is at least three inches of snow on the ground. Equipment rental available from 9am-2pm.

CITY: Decatur

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

A wildlife refuge covering approximately 43,500 acres of forest, wetlands, and grasslands. Hunting, fishing & boating available.

CITY: Marion

Inwood Park

Inwood Park is located southwest of Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center. The park has tennis courts, fitness trails, a playground and picnic area. Horseshoes and bocce ball are also on the grounds.

CITY: Joliet

Lake County Forest Preserve

We currently manage 25,268 acres of land and offer innovative educational, recreational and cultural opportunities for all ages. Visitors enjoy nearly 112 miles of trail for a variety of outdoor recreation uses, fishing ponds and lakes, public access to the Fox River, award-winning nature and history education programs and events, and three public golf courses. Facilities of special interest include Independence Grove near Libertyville, Ryerson Conservation Area near Deerfield, Lake County Discovery Museum near Wauconda, Greenbelt Cultural Center near Waukegan, and three golf courses (Brae Loch near Grayslake, Countryside near Mundelein, and ThunderHawk near Beach Park). Most Forest Preserves are open from 6:30 a.m. to sunset, every day of the year. Special hours apply at the golf courses, Discovery Museum, Greenbelt Cultural Center and Ryerson Woods.

CITY: Libertyville

Dakota Nature Trail

The Dakota Nature Trail for biking, hiking, and cross-county skiing links Dakota Park with the Dorothy Wirth Nature Area. The trail surface is crushed limestone and follows a former railroad right-of-way. The trail begins on Main Street in Dakota.

CITY: Dakota

Ferne Clyffe State Park

Features fascinating plants and geologic formations of the scenic Shawnee Hills. Trails wind past interesting sites such as intermittent waterfalls and the largest shelter bluff in southern Illinois.

CITY: Goreville

Outlaw Outfitters - Le Roy

One-hour guided horseback rides, hayrack and carriage rides for private rental, and barn dances are available. Open through March and October.

CITY: Le Roy

Devil's Backbone/ Devil's Bake Oven

A ridge that runs parallel to the Mississippi River. Offers spectacular views, but with a steep ascent and descent (not an easy hike).

CITY: Grand Tower

Crazy Horse Campground

Crazy Horse is a 55-acre campground blanketed with rolling hills, hiking trails through wooded land, and two large ponds for fishing, boating, and a swimming beach. A lodge for rest and relaxation and a playground for the little ones makes this campground a great place to get away for the season or the weekend! Check out our wide, level sites with full hook-ups as well as our primitive camping area. Call 217-886-2089 or stop by and see us. We're located 8 miles north of Jacksonville and 25 miles west of Springfield, and we're happy to show you around!!

CITY: Ashland

Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve

Experience a commanding view of the Mississippi River and the only known intact thunderbird effigy mound in Illinois. Hiking, bird watching, sightseeing, Native American archaeology and much more on 85 acres of scenic Mississippi River bluffs.

CITY: Galena

Weldon Springs State Park

Weldon Springs offers beauty and recreation for all seasons! Camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, interpretive center & educational programs, picnicking, trails, sight-seeing, and more! Home of Veterans Point Memorial.

CITY: Clinton

Black Sock Training Stable

A variety of equestrian services for beginning to advanced riders. Personalized professional instruction and scheduled trail rides.

CITY: Ottawa