Explore the Outdoors in Illinois
64 state parks, 2,900 lakes, 7 scenic byways. When it comes to Illinois, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure. Follow these real explorers as they uncover picturesque nature trails, hidden gems, iconic landmarks and unique stays in the Middle of Everything. Then, pack your hiking boots and experience the great Illinois outdoors for yourself.
Jump to your interests
Stick Nation Takes Southern Illinois
Boone and Logan from Stick Nation traveled to Southern Illinois for a series of on-site Stick Quests. Along the way, they explored the region's incredible scenery, interacted with the natural environment, and searched for unique sticks at every stop.
Official Stick Review in Southern Illinois
Official Stick Review at Garden of the Gods with Logan and the Sax Stick
Official Stick Review at Garden of the Gods with Logan and the Sax Stick
Family Fun and Fresh Air
The best way to preserve a place? Teach your kids and grandkids to fall in love with it. Whether you’re exploring beloved state parks or discovering urban nature, you’ll find family outdoor adventures and memories that will endure for years.
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.
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.
-
Matthiessen State Park
Matthiessen State Park -
Antioch Lake
Antioch Lake -
Starved Rock
Starved Rock -
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge -
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge
A Natural Escape from Chicago
Some adventures call for the energy of a big city. But others unfold in secluded landscapes, outdoor activities, and quieter pockets of the Middle of Everything. From camping (and glamping) to water-skiing and hiking, explore Illinois beyond the city limits.
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.
A City’s Backyard - Champaign, IL
Visit an urban community where nature is always within reach. That's just one reason Chelsea and Keith love Champaign.
-
Camp Aramoni
Camp Aramoni -
Chicago River
Chicago River -
Galena
Galena -
Rend Lake
Rend Lake -
The 606 Trail
The 606 Trail
Adventures to Challenge and Inspire You
The best way to preserve a place? Teach your kids and grandkids to fall in love with it. Whether you’re exploring beloved state parks or discovering urban nature, you’ll find family outdoor adventures and memories that will endure for years.
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.
-
Buffalo Rock State Park
Buffalo Rock State Park -
Cave In Rock State Park
Cave In Rock State Park -
Pere Marquette State Park
Pere Marquette State Park -
Shawnee Stable
Shawnee Stable -
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park -
Mermet Springs
Mermet Springs
