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State Parks

• Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park – located in Zion, Illinois, on the shores of Lake Michigan. The park spans over 4,160 acres and offers visitors stunning views of the lake and a diverse ecosystem of plant and animal life. The park features 6.5 miles of sandy beach, hiking trails, camping areas, fishing piers, and picnic shelters. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and birdwatching.
• Anderson Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area – a 2,247-acre park located in Fulton County, Illinois. The park is centered around a 1,200-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and hunting. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and numerous species of fish. Visitors can also explore the park’s wetlands and enjoy scenic views of the lake.
• Apple River Canyon State Park – located in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, and covers 297 acres of land. The park features a picturesque canyon formed by the Apple River, with towering cliffs and scenic overlooks. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the canyon and its rock formations. The park also has camping areas, picnic shelters, and opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
• Argyle Lake State Park – a 1,700-acre park located in McDonough County, Illinois. The park features a 93-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish. Visitors can also explore the park’s wooded areas and enjoy scenic views of the lake.
• Baldwin Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Randolph County, Illinois, and covers 2,018 acres of land. The park features a 2,018-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and numerous species of fish. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s picnic areas and hiking trails.
• Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Fulton County, Illinois, and covers 5,585 acres of land. The park features a 4,363-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and numerous species of fish. Visitors can also explore the park’s wetlands and enjoy scenic views of the lake.
• Bartlett Woods Nature Preserve – located in Cook County, Illinois, and covers 500 acres of land. The preserve features several trails that wind through wooded areas and offer visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, coyotes, and numerous species of birds.
• Beall Woods State Park – located in Wabash County, Illinois, and covers 635 acres of land. The park features a dense forest of ancient trees, some of which are over 120 feet tall and over 400 years old. The park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to several species of endangered plants and animals.
• Beaver Dam State Park – located in Macoupin County, Illinois, and covers 750 acres of land. The park features a 59-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s picnic areas and playgrounds.
• Bohm Woods Nature Preserve – located in Cook County, Illinois, and covers 88 acres of land. The preserve features several trails that wind through wooded areas and offer visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and several species of birds.
• Buffalo Rock State Park & Effigy Tumuli – located in LaSalle County, Illinois, and covers over 300 acres of land. The park features a bluff overlooking the Illinois River and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park is also home to several Native American effigy mounds, which are believed to be over 1,000 years old.
• Cache River State Natural Area – located in Johnson County, Illinois, and covers over 14,000 acres of land. The area features several wetlands, forests, and grasslands, which provide habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, including several endangered species. Visitors can explore the area’s hiking trails and enjoy opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
• Cape Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Alexander County, Illinois, and covers over 2,300 acres of land. The area features a 2,500-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish.
• Carlyle Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Clinton County, Illinois, and covers over 11,000 acres of land. The area features a 26,000-acre lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish.
• Castle Rock State Park – located in Ogle County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park features scenic overlooks of the Rock River and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds.
• Cave-in-Rock State Park – located in Hardin County, Illinois, and covers over 240 acres of land. The park features a limestone cave that was used by river pirates in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the cave and enjoy opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Chain O’Lakes State Park – located in Lake County, Illinois, and covers over 2,700 acres of land. The park features a chain of 15 lakes that offer visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the park’s scenic surroundings.
• Channahon State Park – located in Will County, Illinois, and covers over 2,200 acres of land. The park features a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and prairies, which provide homes for a diverse range of plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the park’s trails, as well as fishing and boating in the nearby Illinois River.
• Clinton Lake State Recreation Area – located in DeWitt County, Illinois, and covers over 9,000 acres of land. The area features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the area’s scenic surroundings.
• Coffeen Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Montgomery County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The area features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the area’s scenic surroundings.
• Crawford County State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Crawford County, Illinois, and covers over 1,100 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish.
• Delabar State Park – located in Henderson County, Illinois, and covers over 89 acres of land. The park features a campground, picnic areas, and hiking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming in nearby Oquawka Lake. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds.
• Des Plaines Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Will County, Illinois, and covers over 5,000 acres of land. The area features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and forests, which provide homes for a diverse range of plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hunting, and fishing in designated areas, as well as wildlife viewing.
• Dixon Springs State Park – located in Pope County, Illinois, and covers over 800 acres of land. The park features a campground, hiking trails, and a swimming pool, as well as opportunities for fishing in the nearby Lake Glendale. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Donnelley/Depue State Park – located in Bureau County, Illinois, and covers over 2,300 acres of land. The park features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the park’s scenic surroundings.
• Double T State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Macoupin County, Illinois, and covers over 1,500 acres of land. The area features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the area’s scenic surroundings.
• Eagle Creek State Recreation Area – located in Shelby County, Illinois, and covers over 11,000 acres of land. The area features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the area’s scenic surroundings.
• Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Logan County, Illinois, and covers over 900 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and several species of fish.
• Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area – located in Clinton County, Illinois, and covers over 3,000 acres of land. The area features a large lake that offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the area’s scenic surroundings.
• Ferne Clyffe State Park – located in Johnson County, Illinois, and covers over 2,400 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing in the nearby lake. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Fort Massac State Park – located in Massac County, Illinois, and covers over 1,400 acres of land. The park features a reconstruction of a 1702 French fort, hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing in the nearby Ohio River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds.
• Fox Ridge State Park – located in Coles County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, a campground, and opportunities for fishing in the nearby lake. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Frank Holten State Recreation Area – located in St. Clair County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds.
• Franklin Creek State Natural Area – located in Lee County, Illinois, and covers over 900 acres of land. The area features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing in the nearby creek. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and several species of birds.
• Fults Hill Prairie State Natural Area – located in Monroe County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The area features a rare example of tallgrass prairie and offers visitors opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several species of birds and butterflies.
• Gebhard Woods State Park – located in Grundy County, Illinois, and covers over 30 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing in the nearby Illinois River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and several species of birds.
• Giant City State Park – located in Jackson and Union Counties, Illinois, and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, rock formations, and camping areas. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Golconda Marina State Recreation Area – located in Pope County, Illinois, and covers over 300 acres of land. The area features a marina and boat launch, fishing opportunities, and camping areas. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area – located in Grundy County, Illinois, and covers over 2,500 acres of land. The area features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several species of birds and butterflies.
• Green River State Wildlife Area – located in Lee County, Illinois, and covers over 1,500 acres of land. The area features hiking trails, hunting opportunities, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several species of birds and mammals.
• Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Hamilton County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Harry “Babe” Woodyard State Natural Area – located in Lee County, Illinois, and covers over 200 acres of land. The area features hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including several species of birds and mammals.
• Hazel & Bill Rutherford Wildlife Prairie State Park – located in Peoria County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including bison, elk, and several species of birds.
• Heidecke Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Grundy County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The area features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park– located in Bureau, Henry, and Rock Island Counties, Illinois, and covers over 100 miles of land. The park features hiking and biking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing and boating along the historic Hennepin Canal.
• Horseshoe Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Madison County, Illinois, and covers over 10,000 acres of land. The area features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Horseshoe Lake State Park – located in Alexander County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Illini State Park – located in LaSalle County, Illinois, and covers over 500 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing along the Illinois River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Illinois Caverns State Natural Area – located in Monroe County, Illinois, and covers over 120 acres of land. The area features underground caverns and offers visitors opportunities for guided tours and spelunking. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of bats.
• Iroquois County State Wildlife Area – located in Iroquois County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• James “Pate” Philip State Park – located in DuPage County, Illinois, and covers over 900 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and camping areas. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Cass County, Illinois, and covers over 16,500 acres of land. The area features hiking and biking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Johnson-Sauk Trail State Park – located in Henry County, Illinois, and covers over 1,300 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing and boating along Johnson Lake. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Jubilee College State Park – located in Peoria County, Illinois, and covers over 3,200 acres of land. The park features hiking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing and hunting. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of birds.
• Kankakee River State Park – located in Kankakee County, Illinois, and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The park features hiking and biking trails, camping areas, and opportunities for fishing and boating along the Kankakee River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Kaskaskia River State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in St. Clair County, Illinois, and covers over 20,000 acres of land. The area features several lakes and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Kickapoo State Recreation Area – located in Vermilion County, Illinois, and covers over 2,800 acres of land. The area features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Kinkaid Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Jackson County, Illinois, and covers over 20,000 acres of land. The area features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Kishwaukee River State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Winnebago County, Illinois, and covers over 570 acres of land. The area features the Kishwaukee River and offers visitors opportunities for fishing and hunting. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park – located in Stephenson County, Illinois, and covers over 715 acres of land. The park features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• Lake Murphysboro State Park – located in Jackson County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The park features a lake and offers visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and several species of fish.
• LaSalle Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in LaSalle County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 2,058 acres and offers fishing, boating, hunting, and camping facilities. It is a popular destination for anglers, especially for its stocked walleye and sauger fish.
• Lewis and Clark State Historic Site – a historic site in Hartford, Illinois, that commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The site features a reconstructed fort and a museum with exhibits about the expedition. Visitors can learn about the history of the expedition and the interactions between the expedition members and Native American tribes.
• Lincoln Trail Homestead State Memorial – a historic site in Macon County, Illinois, that commemorates the life of Abraham Lincoln. The site features a replica of the cabin where Lincoln and his family lived for a few years in the early 1800s. Visitors can tour the cabin and learn about Lincoln’s early life and his experiences as a young man in Illinois.
• Lincoln Trail State Park – a state park in Clark County, Illinois. It covers over 1,000 acres and offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities. The park is named after the trail that Abraham Lincoln traveled as a lawyer riding the Eighth Judicial Circuit.
• Lowden State Park – located in Ogle County, Illinois. The park is known for its iconic Black Hawk Statue, a 50-foot-tall concrete statue overlooking the Rock River. The park features picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing areas. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the Rock River and the surrounding countryside.
• Mackinaw River State Fish and Wildlife Area – a state-managed conservation area located in McLean County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 1,400 acres and features a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and prairies. It offers fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping facilities, as well as wildlife observation opportunities.
• Marshall State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Clark County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 3,000 acres and offers fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking facilities. It is home to several lakes and ponds, including the 146-acre Mill Creek Lake, which is popular for fishing and boating.
• Matthiessen State Park – a state park in LaSalle County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 1,900 acres and features canyons, waterfalls, and rock formations. It offers hiking, camping, and fishing facilities, as well as picnic areas and scenic overlooks. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area – a state-managed conservation area located in Bureau County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 900 acres and offers fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation opportunities. It is home to several lakes and ponds, including the 74-acre Johnson Lake, which is stocked with fish such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish.
• Mazonia/Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area – a state-managed conservation area located in Will County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 1,000 acres and offers fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation opportunities. It is home to several lakes and ponds, including the 50-acre Monster Lake, which is stocked with a variety of fish such as bass, crappie, and walleye.
• Mermet Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – a state-managed conservation area located in Massac County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 3,200 acres and features a 100-acre lake, Mermet Lake, which is popular for fishing and boating. It offers hunting, camping, and hiking facilities, as well as wildlife observation opportunities.
• Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Vermilion County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 2,700 acres and offers fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation opportunities. It is home to several lakes and ponds, including the 1,200-acre Kickapoo State Park Lake, which is popular for fishing and boating.
• Mississippi Palisades State Park – a state park in Carroll County, Illinois, USA. It spans over 2,500 acres and features scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and camping facilities. It is known for its unique geological formations, including cliffs, canyons, and bluffs. It offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.
• Mississippi River State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 2,200-acre site located in the southwestern corner of Illinois, along the Mississippi River. The park offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl. The park also features several hiking trails, as well as a campground and picnic areas.
• Mitchell’s Grove Nature Preserve – a 60-acre nature preserve located in Lee County, Illinois. The preserve features a mix of forest, wetlands, and prairie habitats, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the preserve on several hiking trails, including a boardwalk that winds through a wetland area.
• Moraine Hills State Park – a 2,200-acre park located in McHenry County, Illinois. The park features rolling hills and several glacial lakes, which offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has several hiking trails, including a paved bike trail that connects to nearby trails.
• Moraine View State Recreation Area – a 1,700-acre park located in McLean County, Illinois. The park features several lakes and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has several hiking and biking trails, as well as a campground and picnic areas.
• Morrison-Rockwood State Park – a 1,164-acre park located in Whiteside County, Illinois. The park features a mix of forest, prairie, and savanna habitats, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the park on several hiking trails, including a trail that leads to a scenic overlook.
• Nauvoo State Park – a 148-acre park located in Hancock County, Illinois. The park features a mix of wooded and open areas, as well as a small lake. The park offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, and it is also home to several historic sites, including the Nauvoo Temple.
• Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 1,775-acre site located in Jasper County, Illinois. The park features a 1,775-acre lake, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has several hiking trails, as well as a campground and picnic areas.
• North Point Marina – a state-operated marina located in Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is the largest marina on the Great Lakes, with a capacity of 1,500 boats. The marina features a fuel dock, a pump-out station, a marine store, and a restaurant. It is also a popular spot for fishing and water sports, and it offers access to beaches and hiking trails in nearby parks. The marina is open year-round, and it hosts several events throughout the year, including fishing tournaments, boat shows, and live music performances.
• Peabody River State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Richland County, Illinois, and covers over 4,000 acres. The area is a popular spot for fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park features a 1,200-acre lake that is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. There are several picnic areas and camping sites available, as well as a boat launch and marina.
• Pekin Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Tazewell County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres. The park is centered around Pekin Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie. There are several picnic areas and hiking trails available, as well as camping sites and a boat launch.
• Pere Marquette State Park – located in Jersey County, Illinois, and covers over 8,000 acres. The park is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park features several trails, including the 13-mile Pere Marquette State Park Trail. The park also offers camping, fishing, boating, and hunting opportunities.
• Piney Creek Ravine State Natural Area – located in Randolph County, Illinois, and covers over 550 acres. The park is known for its unique geology and is home to several rare plant and animal species. The park features a hiking trail that winds through the ravine, offering scenic views of the surrounding bluffs and creek.
• Powerton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Tazewell County, Illinois, and covers over 1,400 acres. The park is centered around Powerton Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. The park also offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites.
• Prophetstown State Recreation Area – located in Whiteside County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres. The park is known for its prairie and wetland habitats and is a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The park features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites, as well as a boat launch and fishing opportunities.
• Pyramid State Recreation Area – located in Perry County, Illinois, and covers over 19,000 acres. The park is known for its extensive trail system, which includes over 100 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The park also offers camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
• Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area – located in Fayette County, Illinois, and covers over 1,900 acres. The park is centered around Ramsey Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park also offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites.
• Randolph County State Recreation Area – a 1,101-acre park located in Chester, Illinois. The park features a 65-acre lake, which is popular for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are also several picnic areas, campgrounds, and hiking trails available for visitors to enjoy. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles.
• Ray Norbut State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 1,080-acre park located in Jasper County, Illinois. The park is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with several ponds and lakes stocked with a variety of fish species. There are also hiking trails and hunting areas available in the park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl.
• Red Hills State Park – a 967-acre park located in Lawrence County, Illinois. The park is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful scenery, including sandstone bluffs and canyons. There are several hiking trails available for visitors to explore the park, as well as fishing and boating opportunities on the park’s lake. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles.
• Rend Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 20,633-acre park located in Franklin and Jefferson Counties, Illinois. The park is centered around Rend Lake, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has several hiking and biking trails, as well as hunting areas for waterfowl and upland game. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles.
• Rice Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 1,200-acre park located in Fulton County, Illinois. The park is centered around Rice Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating. There are also several hiking trails available for visitors to explore the park, as well as hunting areas for waterfowl and upland game. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl.
• Rock Cut State Park – a 3,092-acre park located in Winnebago County, Illinois. The park is known for its scenic hiking trails and excellent fishing opportunities, with two lakes stocked with a variety of fish species. There are also several camping areas, picnic areas, and playgrounds available for visitors to enjoy. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles.
• Rock Island Trail State Park – a 26-mile-long park located in Peoria and Tazewell Counties, Illinois. The park features a multi-use trail that is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail runs through several small towns and rural areas, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the local culture and history. There are also several picnic areas and camping areas available along the trail.
• Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in southeastern Illinois and covers over 1,200 acres. The park is a popular destination for hunting and fishing, with opportunities for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie fishing, as well as archery deer and turkey hunting. The area is also home to several hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites, including sites for RVs and equestrian camping.
• Sam Dale Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 1,300-acre park located in Wayne County, Illinois. The park is home to a 194-acre lake that offers fishing opportunities for bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Additionally, the park provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites for both tents and RVs.
• Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area – a 1,200-acre park located in Jasper County, Illinois. The area is known for its excellent hunting opportunities, including deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunting. Additionally, the park features a 160-acre lake for fishing and boating, as well as several picnic areas and campsites.
• Sanganois State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Cass County, Illinois, and covers over 10,000 acres of land. It is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and prairies. The park is popular for hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. It also has several campgrounds, picnic areas, and boat ramps for visitors to enjoy.
• Sangchris Lake State Recreation Area – a popular outdoor destination located in Christian and Sangamon Counties, Illinois. The park covers over 3,000 acres and is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The park also has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and white-tailed deer.
• Shabbona Lake State Park – located in DeKalb County, Illinois, and covers over 1,500 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The park also has several hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and foxes. The park also has a large campground with over 150 sites.
• Shelbyville State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Shelby County, Illinois, and covers over 10,000 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• Sielbeck Forest Natural Area – a small but beautiful park located in Cook County, Illinois. The park covers over 75 acres and is known for its diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the woods, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park is home to several species of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Siloam Springs State Park – located in Adams County, Illinois, and covers over 3,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.
• Silver Springs State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Kendall County, Illinois, and covers over 1,300 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, which include forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Knox County, Illinois, and covers over 2,500 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• South Shore State Park – located in Clinton County, Illinois, and covers over 1,600 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Spitler Woods State Natural Area – a small but beautiful park located in Cook County, Illinois. The park covers over 130 acres and is known for its old-growth forest and diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the woods, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park is home to several species of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Spring Lake Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Tazewell County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Starved Rock State Park – located in LaSalle County, Illinois, and covers over 2,600 acres of land. The park is known for its stunning rock formations, canyons, and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the park’s 13 miles of trails, camping, and fishing. The park is home to several species of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and bald eagles.
• Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area – located in Marion County, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Ten Mile Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area – located in Jefferson County, Illinois, and covers over 7,000 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• Trail of Tears State Forest – located in Union County, Illinois, and covers over 5,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful forest, which offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and hunting in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Tunnel Hill State Trail – a 45-mile long trail that runs from Harrisburg to Karnak in Illinois. The trail is located on an old railroad bed and is popular with hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the trail, including forests, wetlands, and rolling hills.
• Turkey Bluffs State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Pope County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• Union County State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Union County, Illinois, and covers over 1,000 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
• Volo Bog State Natural Area – located in Lake County, Illinois, and covers over 1,100 acres of land. The park is known for its unique natural features, including a quaking bog and an open-water lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the bog and learning about its unique ecosystem. The park also has several educational programs and events throughout the year.
• Walnut Point State Park – located in Douglas County, Illinois, and covers over 600 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Washington County State Recreation Area – located in Washington County, Illinois, and covers over 900 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area – located in Franklin County, Illinois, and covers over 3,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Weinberg-King State Park – located in Schuyler County, Illinois, and covers over 900 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• Weldon Springs State Recreation Area – located in DeWitt County, Illinois, and covers over 500 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including white-tailed deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
• White Pines Forest State Park – located in Ogle County, Illinois, and covers over 385 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful forest, which is dominated by white pine trees. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing in the park. The park also has several historic sites, including a reconstructed pioneer cabin and a 19th-century gristmill.
• William G. Stratton State Park – located in Morris, Illinois, and covers over 2,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. The park also has several historic sites, including a reconstructed pioneer cabin and a 19th-century gristmill.
• William W. Powers State Recreation Area – located in Chicago, Illinois, and covers over 580 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and prairies. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and fishing in the park. The park also has several facilities for sports and other recreational activities, including basketball and tennis courts, a baseball field, and a boat launch.
• Wolf Creek State Park – located in Shelby County, Illinois, and covers over 11,000 acres of land. The park is known for its beautiful lake, which offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park. The park also has several facilities for sports and other recreational activities, including a golf course, a swimming beach, and a marina.
• Woodford State Fish and Wildlife Area – located in Woodford County, Illinois, and covers over 2,900 acres of land. The park is known for its diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park also has several facilities for camping and picnicking.

National Parks

• Lincoln Home National Historic Site
• Pullman National Monument

State & National Forests

■ Big River State Forest
■ Hidden Springs State Forest
■ Lowden-Miller State Forest
■ Sand Ridge State Forest
■ Shawnee National Forest
■ Trail of Tears State Forest

National Natural Landmarks

• Allerton Natural Area: Contains a now-rare example of the ecosystems in Illinois stream valleys, with bottomland and upland forests in minimally disturbed condition. Part of Robert Allerton Park. 39°59’53″N 88°39’00″W
• Bell Smith Springs: Part of the Shawnee National Forest, Bell Smith Springs contains excellent examples of sharply dissected sandstone substrates and their associated ecosystems. Stream erosion and mass wasting have created landform examples representative of the area. 37°31’7″N 88°39’22″WBusse Forest Nature Preserve: Historic preserve of mesic and dry-mesic upland forest, one of the best examples in the eastern Central Lowlands bio-physiographic province. Part of the Cook County Forest Preserve District. 42°02’32″N 88°00’12″WForest of the Wabash: Part of Beall Woods State Park, the site includes minimally disturbed bottom- and up-land forests along the Wabash River, including a major example of the region’s remaining oak-hickory forest. 38°21’31″N 87°49’30″WFults Hill Prairie Nature Preserve: Fults Hill is the region’s best and least disturbed example of loess hill prairies. 37°58’39″N 89°48’02″WFunks Grove Nature Preserve: Transitional site between oak-hickory forest prevalent in the region and the western edge of the eastern mesophytic association. A now-rare example of the area’s virgin forests. 40°21’49″N 89°06’52″WGiant City Geological Area: A part of Giant City State Park, the Geological Area is characterized by joint-bound sandstone blocks of the Pennsylvanian age, with examples of gravity sliding. It also contains extensive flora, including sugar maple-dominated mesic forests and oak-hickory and xeric oak woodlands. 37°36’18″N 89°11’18″WHeron Pond – Little Black Slough Nature Preserve: Largest remnant of cypress-tupelo swamp in the state, containing alluvial, colluvial and lacustrine sedimentation and a heron rookery. 37°22’01″N 88°57’00″WHorseshoe Lake: Home to a wide range of flora, including mature bald cypress, and fauna, including migrating waterfowl and overwintering Canada geese. Part of Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. 37°08’56″N 089°21’18″WIllinois Beach Nature Preserve: The site is a part of Illinois Beach State Park, and contains a wide range of savanna, prairie, wetland and beach ecosystems, as well as numerous endangered species. 42°25’02″N 87°48’42″WLaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area: Part of the Shawnee National Forest, the Ecological Area provides habitat for diverse vegetation, representing plants from throughout the state, including 40 rare species. 37°35’N 89°25’WLittle Grand Canyon: A large box canyon with vertical overhanging walls, containing a wide range of ecosystems, including sandstone, oak-hickory forest and prairie. The area is known for its wide range of snakes that hibernate in its seasonal habitats. Located in Shawnee National Forest. 37°41’11″N 89°23’54″WLower Cache River Swamp: The swamp is a remnant fragment of a once-extensive ecosystem, providing habitat for large trees, including three that hold the records for the largest of their respective species. 37°04’01″N 89°10’22″WLusk Creek Canyon: Part of the Shawnee National Forest, Lusk Creek Canyon was formed by stream erosion and mass wasting through lower Pennsylvanian sandstone. The site includes two major forest ecosystems and numerous endangered plant species. 37°31’08″N 88°32’24″WMarkham Prairie: The largest high quality undisturbed prairie in the state and one of the largest in the area, Markham is a remaining fragment of a once-widespread ecosystem. Containing a mixture of sand prairie and tallgrass prairie, it also includes an undeveloped lakebed and beach ridges. 41°36’25″N 87°41’16″WMississippi Palisades: Contains cliffs, caves, and valleys illustrative of palisades topography, as well as extensive animal and plant habitat. Located in an eponymous state park. 42°08’18″N 90°09’32″WVolo Bog Nature Preserve: Classic example of northern quaking bog, providing a habitat for numerous unusual and rare plant species. 42°21’06″N 88°11’10″WWauconda Bog Nature Preserve: Furthest south example of mature bog in the state, with a regionally unusual biotic community. 42°15’14″N 88°07’49″W