Explore the Outdoors in Illinois
Illinois has no shortage of outdoor adventure, no matter where you look on the map. For these residents, their communities and the surrounding nature offer a true sense of escape and deep connection. Discover their stories, pack your bags (and hiking boots), and find yourself in the real outdoors—in the Middle of Everything.
A Love Letter to Family Camping and Fishing in Illinois
For the Sporleder family, returning to beloved places like Rock Cut, Starved Rock, and Matthiessen State Parks creates a profound connection with their grandkids.
From the Big City to the Big Quiet: Finding Beauty in a Nature Escape from Chicago
Escape Chicago's hustle to discover the beauty of diverse landscapes like Camp Aramoni and Rend Lake.
Illinois Real Stories: Adventure in Adaptive Climbing
For Chicago adaptive climber Meaghan Cusack, the goal isn’t just being an inspirational story but pushing herself to her limit.
Where Adventures Flow – Quincy, IL
You can get away from it all while still feeling connected. Carol recommends horseback riding, kayaking, and hitting the trail with your dog.
State Park Central – Ottawa, IL
Just ask longtime resident and local tour guide Tom – nothing beats having four state parks within driving distance of this idyllic, welcoming town.
A City’s Backyard - Champaign, IL
A Close-knit, urban community where nature is always within reach. That’s just one reason Chelsea and Keith love raising their family in Champaign.
Drawn to Serenity – Marion, IL
Lakes and waterfalls. Hiking trails and wildlife refuges. For Jared, easy access to tranquil nature makes his hometown even more of a hidden gem.
Family Camping & Fishing in Illinois
Rock Cut, Starved Rock & Matthiessen
The best way to preserve a place? Teach your grandkids to fall in love with it. For the Sporleder family, returning to beloved places like Rock Cut, Starved Rock, and Matthiessen State Parks creates a profound connection with their grandkids. Sharing their fishing traditions for Bluegill and Crappie, gathering around the campfires, and swapping stories, ensures this appreciation for place will endure for years.
A Nature Escape from Chicago
Camp Aramoni & Rend Lake
Escape Chicago's hustle to discover the beauty of diverse landscapes like Camp Aramoni and Rend Lake. This easy itinerary offers various outdoor adventure options like paddling, swimming, and fantastic camping for your friends and family.
Adventures to Challenge and Inspire You
Cave-in-Rock, Giant City & Pere Marquette
For Chicago adaptive climber Meaghan Cusack, the goal isn’t just being an inspirational story but pushing herself to her limit. Follow her and squad to some of the best climbing in Illinois for people of all abilities and skill levels, including Cave-in-Rock State Park, Giant City State Park, and beautiful Pere Marquette along the Mississippi River.