Illinois is home to many state parks, and chances are you’re just a day trip away. Whether you’re aiming to hike all day, or just want an excuse to pack a picnic, here are ten of the best state parks to visit in Illinois:

1. Kankakee River State Park (Bourbonnais)
5314 IL-102, Bourbonnais, IL 60914, USA
CamPixie/Flickr
This 4,000-acre state park is located on both sides of the Kankakee River for an impressive 11 miles. Throughout the year, Kankakee River State Park offers plenty of things to do outside in Illinois including camping, boating, hiking, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more.

Visit the web page for more information.
2. Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby)
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
John/Flickr
Considered the best state park in Illinois, Starved Rock State Park offers sandstone canyons, waterfalls, overlooks, and plenty of beauty throughout its 2,630 acres.

Read our previous coverage for more information.
3. Moraine Hills State Park (McHenry)
1510 S River Rd, McHenry, IL 60051, USA
James Jordan/Flickr
With 2,200 acres of wetlands, lakes, a river, and forest, there's plenty of wildlife to see here. And if you're looking for hiking trails in Illinois, Moraine Hills State Park has 10 miles of trails that are perfect for exploring.

Visit the web page for more information.
4. Matthiessen State Park (North Utica)
2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Matthiessen State Park, 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Curtis Abert/Flickr
Located close to Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park is another one of the best state parks to visit in Illinois. Here you'll find fascinating geological formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails to explore it all.

Visit the web page for more information.
5. Rock Cut State Park (Caledonia)
7318 Harlem Rd, Loves Park, IL 61111, USA
Good Free Photos/Flickr
With two lakes for fishing and ice skating in the winter, both hiking and equestrian trails, camping, and more, this state park offers plenty of things to do outside in Illinois.

Visit the web page for more information.

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6. Illinois Beach State Park (Zion)
1 Lake Front Dr, Zion, IL 60099, USA
Mike Steele/Flickr
This 4,000-acre state park offers plenty of hiking trails and a tranquil beach getaway. Spend some time along the shores of Lake Michigan while taking in the stunning scenery around you. It's truly one of the best state parks in Illinois.

Read our previous coverage for more information.
7. Shabbona Lake State Park (DeKalb Co.)
4201 Shabbona Grove Rd, Shabbona, IL 60550
EarlRSchumaker/Flickr
Shabonna Lake State Park is home to a large manmade lake popular for both fishing and boating. Other activities include hunting, hiking, camping, and in the winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

Visit the web page for more information.
8. Illini State Park (Marseilles)
2660 E 2350th Rd, Marseilles, IL 61341, USA
Eli Naeher/Flickr
At just 510 acres, this smaller state park is home to several structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, gorgeous views, campsites, picnic areas, and playgrounds. It's one of the best state parks in Illinois to take the family.

Visit the web page for more information.
9. Chain O'Lakes State Park (Spring Grove)
James Road, James Rd, Spring Grove, IL 60081, USA
Eric Gravengaard/Flickr
With over 6,500 acres of water and 488 miles of shoreline, Chain O'Lakes State Park is the best park in Illinois to visit if you love the water. Aside from the lakes, there are also plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding as well as camping, fishing, boating, and more. It's a true outdoor lover's paradise at this state park!

Visit the web page for more information.
10. Pere Marquette State Park (Grafton)
Grafton Visitor Center, 950 E Main St, Grafton, IL 62037, USA
Don Kasak/Flickr
Set alongside the Illinois River, Pere Marquette State Park is the largest state park in Illinois. At over 8,000 acres, there is plenty of beauty to explore here.

Read our previous coverage for more information and plan your visit to Pere Marquette, one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois!

Did we miss any of your favorite state parks to visit in Illinois? Let us know in the comments.

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State Parks To Visit In Illinois

Melissa M. | February 20, 2022

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