24 Best State Parks In Illinois To Visit In 2023

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Updated April 2023

Looking for the best state parks in Illinois to visit? You’re in the right place! As an outdoor lover living in Illinois for the past 20 something years, I’ve gone to my fair share of state and national parks here in Illinois that I want to share with you today.

Sure, Illinois may be mostly known for it’s world-renown city, Chicago, and all the incredible things to do in Chicago, and we may not have mountains out here, however I still think that Illinois has some pretty incredible natural landscapes and historical, and national monuments worth checking out.

From deep ravines, to lush prairies, sandstone canyons, refreshing waterfalls, and tons of lakes with scenic hiking trails, you’ll see just what I mean when I say why you should check out this Illinois national parks list in detail.

So without further ado, let’s dive right into the post and get those ideas going to spend a perfect day out in nature in Illinois!

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24 Best State Parks To Visit In Illinois in 2023

1. Starved Rock

Located in Oglesby, Illinois ( about 1 hr. 40 minutes away from the city) is a beautiful park with 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons and beautiful waterfalls.

It’s truly a really nice park to go to for a picnic, hike the trails, and even camp during the camping season.

It’s definitely one of the most popular parks to visit, and for good reason. 

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this IL. state parks map of Starved Rock.

Why is Starved Rock famous?

The park is absolutely beautiful and offers a great day of hiking adventures throughout it’s 14 miles worth of trails, and beautiful look out points.

The park is highly regarded amongst Illinoisans as one of the best parks for hiking for it’s varied trails that cater to all hiking expertise levels.

The 15+ sandstone canyons are truly a natural sight to see, and if you visit during or after the rainy season (May-June) you’ll catch sight of few natural waterfalls.

How long does it take to walk through Starved Rock?

It typically takes hikers anywhere between 2-3 hours to walk the majority of the park. This of course depends on each persons walking speed, and how many breaks are taken.

Can you go in the waterfalls at Starved Rock?

Though swimming is not allowed on the Illinois River, children and adults have definitely refreshed themselves under the natural and light waterfalls that appear around Starved Rock as if it were a shower. But always use your best judgement and don’t go into stagnant waters.

How much is Starved Rock admission?

Entry is completely free into the park, including free parking! Just come by as early as you can to find your parking spot, as spots tend to fill up fast!

2. Silver Springs State Park

Check out Silver Springs State Park in Illinois, offering a wide range of exciting activities for outdoor lovers!

The park features

• Hiking trails
• Fishing spots
• Picnic areas
• Horseback riding
• Boating
• Camping facilities

Explore the 12 miles of trails that wind through the park’s rolling hills, forests, prairies, and wetlands, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views!

The Fox River runs through the park, adding a beautiful view to the scenery, as well as numerous manmade small lakes and wetlands. Enjoy a leisurely picnic in one of the park’s many picnic areas, as you listen to the variety of songbirds or spend the night camping under the stars.

For those who prefer a more relaxing activity, the park offers boat rentals, allowing visitors to paddle around the scenic lake and take in the tranquil surroundings.

3. Matthiessen State Park

Located just a few miles south of Starved Rock lies Matthiessen State Park, which is a beautifully stunning park with canyons, streams, prairies, forest, rock formations, and more. 

The sight of a variety of vegetation and wildlife is the perfect backdrop for picnics, hiking, and an appreciation for nature.  

If you visit between the months of July and August, you will be able to experience the beautiful fields of sunflowers in their splendor. 

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this IL. state parks map of Matthiessen State Park.

Is Matthiessen better than Starved Rock?

It’s a bit of a growing debate amongst locals which park is better, but the reality is that they are both incredibly beautiful and scenic parks. Since they are only 2.5 miles apart, the nature doesn’t really change, so the sights you see at Starved Rock are very similar to that of Matthiessen State Park.

So whether you go to Starved Rock or Matthiessen State Park, you’ll be stunned by the beautiful sight of canyons, ravines, sandstone rock formations, waterfalls and prairie lands.

How long of a hike is Matthiessen?

One of the more popular hikes to do at Matthiessen is the 2.3 mile loop trail that takes you through the dense beauty of the state park! This path takes a little under the hour to complete, and is a favorite hike to do because of the equal amounts of people that you see and moments of quiet in nature you experience.

Is Matthiessen State Park Free?

Yes! It is free entry and access to the state park, including parking.

However because it is a popular park in Illinois, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to plan to arrive earlier in order to secure a parking spot. You don’t want to drive out for a while to find out there are no parking spots left, so plan ahead!

>> Read More: 10 Incredibly Useful Car Accessories For Your Next Road Trip

4. Shawnee National Forest 

Most famously recognized as the Garden of the Gods, this beacon for nature lovers is located in southern Illinois, just between the Mississippi River and the Ohio Rivers in Herod, IL.

Honestly, it’s so beautiful here, it should be considered one of the natural national monuments in Illinois because it is stunning!

Shawnee National Forest park offers 403 miles of hiking, rolling hills, forests, lakes, creeks, open lands, and rugged bluffs. Jackson Falls, located within Shawnee National Forest, offers sandstone cliffs and boulders for climbing, and also just to admire.

A place not talked about enough, but one worth making the trip for!

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this IL. state parks map of Shawnee National Forest.

What is Shawnee National Forest known for?

It has a bit of almost every kind of natural landscape you can ask for!

From wetlands to canyons, ancient hickory forests, dramatic ridges and cliffs, and interesting geological sites you have to see.

The truth is that the park’s sandstone cliffs and deep ravines makes it seem like the park isn’t where it is, as Illinois is a flat state.

Are there rattlesnakes in Shawnee National Forest?

Be careful when hiking around beautiful Shawnee National Forest because there are indeed rattlesnakes throughout the park. There are actually 3 to be mindful of:

• Copperhead
• Cottonmouth
• Timber rattlesnake

Nothing to be afraid of, just alert. Be sure to watch your step where you’re walking and keep and eye (and ear) out for any potential risk. If you see one, just step away and walk around it.

Are there bears in Shawnee National Forest?

Believe it or not, yes there are! Black bears are native to this area of Illinois, and few of them still remain in their natural habitat. However, you don’t have to worry about running into one as long as you remain on the trails and pay attention to the signs.

How many waterfalls are in Shawnee National Forest?

There are over 100 beautiful waterfalls at Shawnee National Forest, of all different heights. Some of the most popular waterfalls include:

• Jackson Falls
• Natural Bridge Waterfall
• Garden of the Gods Waterfalls

The good thing is that most trails will lead you to one, so you can’t miss them even if you tried.

How much does it cost to get into Shawnee National Forest?

Good news, entry into Shawnee National Forest is FREE!

What hippie town is in Shawnee National Forest?

Around 1 hour away from Shawnee National Forest is a village called Makanda that in the 60s was known for it’s widespread Hippie culture and lifestyle.

The village is known as the Gateway to Giant City State Park because of it’s closeness to Shawnee National Forest.

Don’t hesitate to visit the village, and stroll down the historic downtown to check out it’s local businesses and shops that still reflect that free-spirited culture.

What town is near Shawnee National Forest?

The closest towns to Shawnee National Forest are Buncombe, West Vienna and Bloomfield. You can also check out Goreville and Anna, which are other towns close to the national forest, and great places to stay at when planning your visit to the park.

5. White Pines Forest State Park

White Pines Forest State Park is a 3,000 acre beautiful and serene natural area, full of lush forests, stunning sandstone bluffs, and beautiful streams. Located in northern Illinois, here are some of the activities. to do at White Pines Forest State Park:

• Hiking
• Camping
• Fishing
• Picnicking
• Horseback riding

There are also several trails throughout the park, including the White Pines Trail and the Red Pine Trail, which offer breathtaking views of the forest and its wildlife.

The highlight of the park is the majestic white pine trees (hence the name of the park) that tower over the landscape, some of which are over 200 years old!

Overall, White Pines Forest State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Chicago!

6. Burden Falls Wilderness

Located within Shawnee National Forest, Burden Falls Wilderness offers more perfect walking trails to admire nature, as well as equestrian trails. Interestingly enough, a walk through this space of greenery will also give you insight into the use of this land before it became a top hiking destination in Illinois.

Visitors share that you can catch glimpses of old roads, cemeteries, homesteads, and fruit trees. 

Nature and history in plain sight, don’t miss it!

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this IL. state parks map of Shawnee National Forest.

Where is Burden Falls Wilderness?

Burden Falls Wilderness is located in the northwest corner of Pope Country.

7. Giant City State Park

Offering a wide variety of natural sites from a variety of around 75 different tree varieties, flowering mints, and abundant vegetation, Giant City State Park in Makanda, IL. accommodates both campers and day visitors.

Horseback riding, hiking the scenic trails, rock climbing, and even fishing in designated areas are just a few of the activities that you can do at this park. 

While you’re there, don’t forget to visit “Giant City Streets” which are huge bluffs of sandstone that formed 12,000 years ago!

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this IL. state parks map of Giant City State Park.

How much does it cost to camp at Giant City State Park?

Camping at Giant City State Park is a great idea to really make the most of your time in the pure Illinoisan wilderness. Prices for camp sites start at $20 but tend to go up based on season.

Are dogs allowed in Giant City State Park?

Yup! Dogs are allowed at Giant City State Park, just be sure to keep them on a leash and clean up after them.

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8. Ferne Clyffe State Park

Ferne Clyffe State Park is a natural oasis located in southern Illinois that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the main attractions of the park is its hiking trails, which takes you on a journey through lush forests and rocky outcroppings, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Named after the incredible variety of ferns, several interesting plants, and other interesting geological structures, there are plenty of ways to make a full-day adventure out of the things to do at Ferne Clyffe State Park!

You can also explore the park’s many waterfalls and creeks, offering plenty of opportunities for

• Fishing
• Swimming
• Canoeing

If you’re looking to relax, Ferne Clyffe State Park has different picnic areas and campgrounds that provide the perfect setting for a weekend getaway.

How long is the waterfall trail at Ferne Clyffe?

There are a number of trails that can take you to the waterfall, depending on where you are in the park.

If you start at the visitor center, the trail is only 0.5 miles long, and bring you to one of the largest bluffs in Illinois, and incredible waterfall.

If you’re starting at the Deer Ridge Campground, you’ll have a moderate-difficulty trail that lasts only around 0.75-1 mile but with incredible panoramic sites to make plenty of stops throughout.

What snakes are in Ferne Clyffe State Park?

Make sure to be vigilant as you make your way through the beautiful trails at Ferne Clyffe State Park, as there has been reports of 3 different kind of venomous snakes in the park.

• Copperheads
• Timber Rattlesnakes
• Cottonmouth Water Moccasins

If you find a snake on your hike, experts recommend waiting until they leave or slowly turning back the way you came from. Be sure to pay attention to trail markers and don’t veer off into the park

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9. Chain O’Lakes State Park

Chain O’Lakes State Park is a popular destination located in northeastern Illinois, with tons of things to see and do, and most popular for it’s pristine lakes (hence the name of the park).

Some of the most popular things to do at Chain O’Lakes State Park because of the gorgeous lakes are:

• Boating
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Walking around the lake

The park also features several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding forest and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

Camping is also a popular activity at the park, with several well-equipped campsites available for visitors.

Additionally, you can enjoy picnicking, wildlife watching, and geocaching!

And if you visit during the winter months, you can enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, so no matter the season, there is always something to see and do at Chain O’Lakes!

10. Rock Cut State Park

Rock Cut State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located in Loves Park, only 11 minutes away from Rockford.

The park covers over 3,000 acres and is known for its scenic hiking trails, clear lakes for fishing and boating, and lush green forests.

You can enjoy a variety of activities such as:

• Camping
• Picnicking
• Swimming
• Horseback riding

The park also has an extensive network of mountain biking trails that offer a thrilling adventure for the more adventurous visitors.

With its stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, Rock Cut State Park offers an impressive and incredibly beautiful escape into nature.

>> Read More: The Prettiest Small Towns To Visit in Illinois

11. Mississippi Palisades State Park

Located in the northwest region of Illinois in a town called Savanna, IL. is a park that offers stunning views of cliffs, rivers, caves, and ravines to those who visit.

The palisades, meaning steep cliffs, are viewed from different points of the park, and beyond the cliffs, a beautiful lake.

Summer is a great time to visit, but many recommend the fall as well, as you get to really see the beauty of the red/orange-tinged leaves all around.

Due to erosion and other natural occurrences, rock formations such as Indian Head and Twin Sisters, are some of the most photographed rock formations in the park, so don’t miss them while you’re there!

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this helpful IL. state parks map of Mississippi Palisades State Park.

How much does it cost to get into Palisades State Park?

Entry into the Mississippi Palisades State Park is between $2.00-$4.00 USD.

What is the best trail at Mississippi Palisades?

According to previous hikers, the best trails to walk at the Mississippi Palisades Park is the Sentinel, Sunset, and Pine Trail hikes.

With sights of the bluffs, views of the river, and moments on the trail of quiet and where you’ll meet people – it’s the perfect trail.

The trail (depending on how fast or slow you go) takes around 2.5 hours to complete.

Can you swim at Mississippi Palisades?

Yes! Swimming is allowed only in designated places like the swimming beach.

12. Cache River Wetlands

Considered by many as Illinois’ “secret bayou”, Cache River Wetlands in Cypress, Illinois is a park that offers hiking trails including floating boardwalks through the wetlands, kayaking, canoeing (which they have for rent), and learning more about this park at the Cache River Wetlands center.

You can also learn about how this part of Illinois resembles Louisiana, with its natural wildlife and vegetation of the area.

Definitely, a place to check out, experience, and see what the wetlands look like, without even leaving Illinois. Make it a weekend trip, stay in the cabins not too far from the park, and enjoy food and drinks at Cache River Basin Vineyard and Winery. 

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this helpful IL. state parks map of Cache River Wetlands.

13. Cave-In-Rock State Park

Cave-In-Rock State Park is a panoramic park located in southern Illinois that is so beautiful and unique, it must go on your list of the best state parks in Illinois to visit.

The park is named after a large cave that overlooks the Ohio River and is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the area’s unique geological features.

One of the most popular activities at Cave-In-Rock State Park is, of course, exploring the cave itself, which features a large opening that provides extremely stunning views of the river below!

The park also features several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest, providing visitors with an opportunity to see the park’s diverse wildlife and plant life, so make sure to bring your binoculars!

Some of the activities to enjoy at Cave-In-Rock State Park include:

• Picnicking
• Camping
• Hiking
• Wildlife sightings

As a unique bonus, in the summer months, the park hosts several events, including music festivals and craft fairs, so if that interest you, take a look at some of the upcoming shows taking place at the park!

Whether you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors or a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, Cave-In-Rock State Park is definitely worth a visit!

14. Kickapoo State Recreation

With over 2,800 acres of forest and lake perfect for a number of water sports and exploring activities, Kickapoo State Recreation Area awaits you in it’s east-central Illinois location.

Some of the activities to do at Kickapoo State Recreation Area includes:

• Boating
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Hiking

You can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats to explore the lake, or take a dip in one of the park’s designated swimming areas if that’s more of your speed.

Those looking for a good walk in nature, check out the several hiking and biking trails that wind through the surrounding woodlands, offering visitors a chance to see the area’s diverse wildlife and plant life up close.

Additionally, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is home to several campsites, making it an ideal location for a weekend getaway!

If you visit during the winter months, you can enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

15. Buffalo Rock State Park

Buffalo Rock State Park in norther Illinois offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, from:

• Hiking
• Picnicking
• Camping
• Boating

Get stunning views of the scenic Illinois River, whether you’re hiking along the riverfront, or you’re off to explore the park’s unique rock formations on a challenging hike throughout the wooded trails.

As you’re walking, keep your eyes peeled for sights of bison herd, commonly spotted at a safe distance from the trails, so if you can, bring some binoculars!

Additionally, the park hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Bald Eagle Watch Weekend in late January, and more so keep a lookout!

Honorable mentions – Which other state parks in Illinois should you visit?

16. Illinois Beach State Park – Zion, IL.

17. Moraine Hills State Park – McHenry, IL.

18. Kankakee River State Park – Bourbonnais, IL.

19. James Pate Philip State Park – Bartlett, IL.

20. Midewin National Tallgrass Prarie – Wilmington, IL.

21. White Pines Forest State Park – Mt. Morris, IL.

22. Castle Rock State Park – Oregon, IL.

23. Dixon Springs State Park – Golconda, IL.

24. Pere Marquette State Park – Grafton, IL.

The Best National Historic Trails in Illinois

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Walk a portion of the original Lewis & Clark National Historic Traill, which honors the expedition of Lewis & Clark and their journey of discovering the North American west.

The reason why Lewis & Clark decided to to explore the trail was inspired by learning about the Mississippi Rivers and finding routes that would connect middle America to the Pacific Ocean.

Today, you can walk a portion of the historic trail in Illinois, checking out the beautiful natural scenery of native plants and incredible wildlife.

Aside from the nature and animals, you can see a few national historic sites including the:

• Lewis & Clark State Historic Site (Camp Dubois) – A learning center where you can understand more about the stories of what the Illinois portion of the expedition considered of according to Lewis & Clark.
• Fort Massac – A French fort near the Tennessee River.
• Chester Welcome Center – where you can learn more about the expedition and get views of the river and bridge nearby.
• Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower – a 150 feet tower that stands right at the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Missouri rivers.
• Cairo Custom House Museum – a museum that holds local history, including it’s past life as the Cairo Custom House that was used as the headquarters that collected tax on imported good traded on the Mississippi River.
• Cahokia Courthouse State Historic Site – A French building that used to be a courthouse, and is not a historic site and museum.
• Fort Massac State Park – On the Ohio River, this is a great park that offers it’s own walking trails, shady picnic areas and even camping areas.

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

The Mormon religion was brought to southern Illinois, in the town of Nauvoo after it’s establishment in New York, and as a result, their growing population and work grew the city to be the most populous city in Illinois at the time.

After the an angry mob of people killed the prophet leading the LDS group, Joseph Smith, the community uprooted and looked for a new beginning towards the west.

Even though the trail is not a continuous, marked trail, you can still visit and walk a portion of the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail, which is in total a 1,300 mile long route from Illinois to Utah.

There is also an official Auto Tour Route, that allows you to drive down a portion of the Mormon Pioneer Historic Trail.

Because of how much land the trail crosses, some portions are not open to public access, however many activities are available to check our and learn more about this interesting piece of history.

• The Nauvoo National Historic Landmark – This site was the scene of many people from the LDS group leaving on ferries to get to the other side of the Mississippi and continue on their way to their new home in the west.
• Carthage Jail & Visitor Center – The jail where Joseph Smith and his brother were kept inside, and the scene where they were shot and killed by an angry mob of people.

>> Read More: 12 Of The Prettiest Small Towns To Visit in Illinois To Visit

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Retrace and learn about the forceful and unjust removal of the Cherokee people from Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, towards Oklahoma.

Due to the Indian Removal Act of 1830, it was ordered that the native people from the mentioned states to leave, and relocate the “Indian Territory” in Oklahoma.

The difficult journey that took 3 months to make on foot, horseback, and boat, was one where the Cherokee people had to deal with illness outbreaks, malnutrition, and extreme weather on top of the unjust treatments they received from local townspeople not allowing them to enter their towns.

Today, the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail acts as an act of remembrance of the resilience of the Cherokee people who were forced to move.

A portion of the trail passes through southern Illinois, where you can walk a portion of the trail, as well as explore a few other nearby sites commemorating the historic and difficulties the Cherokee people had to endure.

• McCorkle Creek – a campsite used by the Cherokee people, owned by Joseph McCorkle.
• Golconda, Illinois – Another camping spot near water.

National Historic Sites in Illinois

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Enter back in time to Lincoln’s Illinois where you can walk through the renovated replica of Lincoln’s house and neighborhood as it looked like in 1837.

Step inside Lincoln’s home, and see what the house of the 16th U.S. president looked like, while learning a few interesting facts about life back then, and how he transitioned from civilian life to president of the U.S.

The whole 4-block neighborhood is yours to explore, as well as the learning more in depth information at the visitor center, including a short film.

Depending on when you visit, you may even catch a live reenactment with special actors in costume demonstrating life back in the 1800s.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Quite unlike any of the parks listed, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Park is an unofficial national monument in Illinois because of its interesting appearance, history, and beauty.

They are ruins left by one of the world’s greatest cities to exist in North America, which dates back as early as 700 AD! It was the home of the native tribe, referred to as the Missippians or Mound Builders, and it is said to be the most sophisticated native civilization north of Mexico.

It has even been said that Cahokia was larger than London was in AD 1250.

The area itself has been preserved, and when you visit, you can see the mounds, which are man-made structures utilized within their civilization.

This historic site is located in the southwestern point of Illinois touching Missouri (right across the Mississippi River and East St. Louis) in the town of Collinsville, Illinois.

Make it a long weekend trip, move across the Mississippi River into St. Louis for some STL-style BBQ ribs, and top it off with a visit to Ted Drew’s for ice cream. You’re welcome. 

Map out your trail before driving over, by clicking on this interactive IL. state parks map of Cahokia Mounds State Historic Park.

What is special about Cahokia Mounds?

The Cahokia Mounds is a pretty unique sight close to the Illinois and Missouri state line, and special in it’s own right.

The Cahokia Mounds is the largest pre-Colombian settlement that is north of Mexico, and believed to have been occupied between 800-1400. At the time it had around 120 mounds, whereas today there is only 70.

They were used as burial grounds.

Can you go inside Cahokia Mounds?

Though you cannot actually go inside the mounds themselves, you can explore 800 acres of what remains of the Cahokia Mounds.

On your visit, you’ll be able to climb up the mounds, get amazing views of the site around, and see examples of the ancient sun calendar and a wood henge.

Guided tours are also available to further enrich your visit, just make sure to call ahead of time to schedule your tour.

Of course, don’t forget to stop into the Interpretive Center, to see exhibits and examples of what life at the Cahokia Mounds look like, and learn a bit more.

How much does it cost to visit Cahokia Mounds?

Entry is free into the Cahokia Mounds, however donations are strongly encouraged to help keep daily maintenance in check.

Is Cahokia Mounds worth visiting?

Absolutely! It’s not only a historical site to see that allows us to see a piece of Indigenous culture, but also it’s a great workout to walk and climb up the mounds.

Why was Cahokia Mounds abandoned?

There are many speculations as to why Cahokia was abandoned, but unfortunately, it’s still remains a mystery.

Pullman National Monument

Located on the south side of Chicago is the 19 century district that is known to be the first U.S. industrial community where factory workers and employees and the backdrop of the famous 1894 Pullman strike.

George Pullman, and American engineer, and owner of Pullman Sleeping Cars turned out to be the first largest employer of African Americans at the time, meaning that this was the first time a major labor agreement between the company and an African American union was formed.

After “The Panic of 1893” the demand for sleeper cars dramatically decreased, and therefore, the wages for the employees lowered and rent for the employees living in the industrial community did not lower.

As a result, the Pullman Strike took place, which changed as a whole the American labor system, proving that a union of employees has power over greedy industries.

Today, you can visit the National Park Service Pullman Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the sleeper car business that Pullman started, and that with his employees grew to be a profitable business, until it wasn’t and what the employees did to protect their rights.

Check out the Administration Clock Tower to see a few exhibits sharing more information about the Pullman national monument.

• Pullman Exhibit Hall – Check out the temporary exhibits and informational displays and images along with film describing the historical significance of the national monument.
• National A. Randolph Porter Museum – This museum is dedicated to the chief organizer of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters union, A. Philip Randolph.

No reservations are necessary, as you can simply walk in and buy your ticket to enter.

The Best National Parks in Illinois Q&A

What is the largest national park in Illinois?

According to multiple sites, this title goes to Pere Marquette State Park located in Grafton, IL (near the Missouri/Illinois state borders).

This park is approximately 8,000 acres of midwestern natural scapes and beauty.

You can even check out losing nearby as well as restaurants within the park. It’s very visitor-friendly, so if you’re in southern Illinois, or passing by, check it out!

What is the closest state park to Chicago?

At only 43 miles away (around 1 hour) away is Fabyan Forest Preserve, and thus the closest state park to Chicago on this list. The second closest state park to Illinois at only 101 miles away (a little less than 1 hour away) is Starved Rock State Park.

What is the oldest state park in Illinois?

Fort Massac State Park is known to be the first official state park in Illinois, dating back to 1908. As you know now, Fort Massac is a French fort near the Tennessee River, and is close to the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail.

What is the most beautiful park in Illinois?

Truthfully, there isn’t a concrete answer for this, as it depends on the traveler.

If you want an exquisite view of the prairie lands that are most common in Illinois, parks such as Midewin National Tallgrass Prarie may be the best park for you, but if you want to see canyons and sandstone cliffs, you may want to visit Shawnee National Forest or Starved Rock.

Do your own research based on what kind of nature/animals you’d like to see!

What is the most popular park in Illinois?

Due to popular search results on Google, the most popular state park in Illinois has been Garden of the Gods AKA Shawnee National Forest for its breathtaking sandstone cliffs, woodlands, hills, and lakes, which make this park spectacular for hiking, walking along the river and lakes, and taking in the beautiful, natural scenery in Illinois.

What is the most visited State Park in Illinois?

This title goes to Starved Rock National Park, simply for it’s abundant hiking trails that don’t require too much practice, the gorgeous natural waterfalls, sights of sandstone canyons, and picnic spots.

Does Illinois have any national parks?

YES! Hopefully by now you not only see that Illinois has incredible national parks to enjoy, but that you also have a good idea of what each offers, and how to fully enjoy them on a trip to Illinois. Make sure to bring your most comfortable hiking shoes!

The Wrap Up – 24 Best State Parks In Illinois To Visit

So which one is the next park on your list to visit?

Was there one that surprised you, or a few that you’ve been to?

As a recap, here are the 24 Best State Parks In Illinois To Visit as well as National Historic Trails and National Sites

• Starved Rock – Oglesby, Illinois
• Silver Springs State Park – Yorkville, Illinois
• Matthiessen State Park – Oglesby, Illinois
• Shawnee National Forest – Herod, Illinois
• White Pines Forest State Park – Morris, Illinois
• Burden Falls Wilderness – Pope Country, Illinois
• Giant City State Park – Makanda, Illinois
• Ferne Clyffe State Park – Goreville, Illinois
• Chain O Lakes State Park – Morris, Illinois
• Fabyan Forest Preserve – Geneva, Illinois
• Mississippi Palisades State Park – Savanna, Illinois
• Cache River Wetlands – Cypress, Illinois
• Cave-In-Rock State Park – Hardin County, Illinois
• Kickapoo State Recreation – Oakwood, Illinois
• Buffalo Rock State Park – Ottawa, Illinois

More state parks in Illinois to visit

• Illinois Beach State Park – Zion, Illinois
• Moraine Hills State Park – McHenry, Illinois
• Kankakee River State Park – Bourbonnais, Illinois
• Rock Cut State Park – Loves Park, Illinois
• James Pate Philip State Park – Bartlett, Illinois
• Midewin National Tallgrass Prarie – Wilmington, Illinois
• White Pines Forest State Park – Mt. Morris, Illinois
• Castle Rock State Park – Oregon, Illinois
• Dixon Springs State Park – Golconda, Illinois
• Pere Marquette State Park – Grafton, Illinois

The Best National Historic Trails in Illinois

• Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail – Hartford, Illinois
• Mormon Pioneer Historic Trail – Nauvoo, Illinois
• Trail of Tears National Historic Trail – South of Jonesboro, Illinois

National Historic Sites in Illinois

• Lincoln Home National Historic Site – Springfield, Illinois
• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Park – Collinsville, Illinois
• Pullman National Monument – Chicago, Illinois

The truth is, there are so many beautiful natural sights here in Illinois – from parks to national monuments, in all corners of the state.

Taking a weekend to go hike at one of these beautiful national parks is a great plan, especially in the summer.

I hope that this list of the 24 best state parks in Illinois to visit, plus national trails and historic monuments helped you add more ideas to your Illinois itinerary!

To more natural escapes that give us what we need, and more ✨

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