Your Ultimate Guide to State Parks in Illinois

Hey there, welcome to the ultimate guide to state parks in Illinois! If you're curious about how many state parks in Illinois there are, you're in for a real treat. I'm going to take a deep dive into all the different landscapes and fun things you can do across the state. Whether you're up north by Lake Michigan or down south, there's something for everyone. So, let's explore the best state parks in Illinois.

Most Popular State Parks In Illinois

Ready for some outdoor fun? Dive into the beauty of Starved Rock, Matthiessen, and Illinois Beach. Whether you're up for canyon explorations, sandy beaches, or just chilling by the lake, these destinations have you covered. Get ready to unwind and soak up the natural wonders of the Land of Lincoln!

1. Starved Rock State Park

Location: Oglesby, IL

Wow Factor: In winter, spot bald eagles fishing below Starved Rock Dam or roosting on Leopold or Plum Island.

Need To Know: The park features 18 deep canyons, including French, LaSalle, Ottawa, and St. Louis Canyons, each with enduring waterfalls. Explore scenic viewpoints like Lover's Leap Overlook, Eagle Cliff Overlook, and Beehive Overlook along the riverside trail.

Explore the beauty of Starved Rock State Park, a popular destination in La Salle County. There are so many things to do in Starved Rock State Park — discover canyons, moss-covered sandstone, and scenic trails. Hike through lush vegetation, discover waterfalls, and enjoy outdoor activities like camping and fishing.

The Starved Rock Visitor Center is your go-to for information, and for a cozy retreat, check out the historic Starved Rock Lodge with its luxury accommodations and dining options. Whether you're into hiking or just soaking up nature, Starved Rock is it.

2. Matthiessen State Park

Location: Oglesby, IL

Wow Factor: Matthiessen State Park in LaSalle County boasts cool canyons with diverse flora, including mosses and ferns. Spot thriving tree species and encounter amphibians and cliff swallows. A haven for white-tail deer, it's a nature lover's paradise!

Need To Know: Matthiessen State Park, a few miles south of Starved Rock State Park, shares its main entrances on Illinois State Route 178. The Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary is located close by.

Located in central LaSalle County, just a short drive from Utica and Oglesby, Matthiessen State Park is the perfect destination for lovers of the outdoors. The park has captivating rock formations, unique wildlife, and vibrant canyons, making it the perfect spot for a day out.

Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, or just soaking in the scenery, Matthiessen has you covered with five miles of marked trails and additional biking and horseback riding trails spanning nine miles. Get ready for adventure in this geological paradise — there are so many things to do in Matthiessen State Park!

3. Illinois Beach State Park

Location: Zion, IL

Wow Factor: The park is situated in the 12-mile Zion Beach Ridge Plain, a 3,700-year-old area with curvilinear ridge-and-swale topography, featuring black oak savannas on the ridges and wetlands in the swales.

Need To Know: The campground is open from April 1 to December 30. Reservations, up to 180 days in advance, are recommended, especially on holidays and peak seasons. First-come, first-served sites are limited and fill up quickly on summer Fridays. Accessible sites are near facilities and a dump station.

Experience the beauty of Illinois Beach State Park (Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park), located along Lake Michigan's sandy shores in northern Illinois. This 6.5-mile stretch is a haven for nature lovers, with dunes, marshes, oak forests, and a vibrant array of wildlife. Discover over 650 plant species, including vibrant wildflowers and prickly pear cacti, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.

Take advantage of the diverse activities and numerous things to do in Illinois Beach State Park, including swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and camping across its 4,160 acres. For those looking to stay overnight, the southern unit campground offers 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity, showers, and other facilities for a comfortable stay.

Best State Parks In Illinois To Camp

Gear up for the ultimate camping adventure! Check out the best places for your outdoor escapade: Chain O'Lakes, Kankakee River, and Rock Cut. From water fun to nature exploration, these parks have it all. So, grab your gear, gather your friends, and make camping memories in the heart of Illinois!

4. Chain O'Lakes State Park

Location: Spring Grove, IL

Wow Factor: Discover a profusion of wildflowers in spring, summer, and fall. Grass Lake, once covered in American Lotus, still boasts pockets of these iconic flowers. Additionally, 200 acres of restored native prairie provide a nesting haven for grassland bird species.

Need To Know: Adults (18+) need a camp shelter set up for permit registration, and all campers must have a valid permit. Gathering firewood and alcohol is prohibited in the campgrounds. Reserve your campsite, youth group spot, or shelter in advance.

Explore the water wonders of Chain O' Lakes State Park in the heart of Illinois' natural lake paradise. Boasting three natural lakes— Grass, Marie, and Nippersink— and connecting to seven more through the Fox River, this park is a water lover's dream.

With 6,500 acres of water, 488 miles of shoreline, and a rich history dating back to the 1930s, Chain O' Lakes is the go-to spot for boating, fishing, and camping fun. Whether you're angling for bass, hiking the trails, or setting up camp at one of their 230 sites, this park has it all. Dive into the outdoors and discover the best things to do in Chain O' Lakes State Park!

5. Kankakee River State Park

Location: Bourbonnais, IL

Wow Factor: Take a stroll across a 75-foot suspension bridge along the Kankakee River Trail!

Need to Know: Rock Creek's seasonal concession stand, located inside the park's main entrance, offers refreshments, ice, camping supplies, firewood, bait, and hunting and fishing licenses.

Experience the rich history of Kankakee River State Park, a cherished spot for locals and visitors since the 1890s. With 4,000 acres along the naturally channeled Kankakee River, this park offers unbeatable recreation. Fishing is a highlight, with opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, catfish, walleye, and pike.

With over 200 campsites catering to various preferences, from Class BE with electricity to Class A with showers, camping at Kankakee River State Park is an affordable and enjoyable experience. Discover the countless things to do in Kankakee River State Park for an outdoor adventure.

6. Rock Cut State Park

Location: Caledonia, IL

Wow Factor: Abundant water fosters thriving wildlife and plants at Rock Cut State Park, home to one of the largest remaining grassland and wildflower prairies with over 100 flower varieties.

Need to Know: Alcohol is not permitted in Rock Cut State Park or the campground.

Rock Cut State Park, spanning over 3,000 acres, is nestled in Winnebago County and is a perfect spot for camping. The park boasts two stunning lakes — Pierce Lake and Olson Lake — that are perfect for fishing, ice fishing, and ice skating.

In addition, there are a plethora of activities and things to do in Rock Cut State Park, such as hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, wildlife watching, and seasonal hunting programs, ensuring that there is something for everyone throughout the year.

The campground features 270 premium campsites, a rustic cabin, a youth group camp, and shelters, all of which are available for reservation. The campgrounds offer essential amenities, including electricity, water hydrants, dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch, and playgrounds, to ensure a comfortable stay.

Best State Parks In Illinois To RV

If you're searching for a fun and adventurous way to explore Illinois, look no further than RV camping at Shabbona Lake, Giant City, and Ferne Clyffe. These spots are the best of the best, with plenty of natural beauty, exciting recreational activities, and RV-friendly amenities to make your trip unforgettable. And, if you need to rent a vehicle, be sure to check out the offerings from RVShare.

7. Shabbona Lake State Park

Location: Shabbona, IL

Wow Factor: Explore Shabbona Lake State Park's diverse landscape, from meadows to woods and a native fen. Encounter a variety of plant life, including cattails, marsh marigolds, and vibrant prairie flowers.

Need To Know: Head to Pokanoka’s Cafe for tasty food, cold drinks, and lake views.

Looking for things to do in Shabbona Lake State Park (Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area)? Discover the tranquility of this beautiful park, just a quick drive from Chicago. This 1,550-acre park offers a perfect escape, featuring a semi-wooded campground with 150 Class A sites. You can enjoy modern comforts, such as electricity, showers, and easy access.

The campground also features a boat launch, playground, and a handy Camp Store stocked with essentials, so you won't need to run to town for anything. Kids can borrow fishing poles, and paddle boats are ready for lake adventures. Each campsite has everything you need for a fun and memorable time in nature, including gravel parking, a picnic table, and a campfire ring.

8. Giant City State Park

Location: Makanda, IL

Wow Factor: Recognized as a National Natural Landmark, this state park is home to the Giant City Stone Fort Site, a prehistoric stone fort listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Need To Know: Ascend 123 steps to reach the summit of an Illinois water tower and enjoy views of Giant City State Park.

Get ready for an outdoor getaway at Giant City State Park near Carbondale! Whether you're into camping, horseback riding, fishing, or even rock climbing, there is so much to explore and things to do in Giant City State Park. Explore the unique landscape with massive sandstone structures, ferns, and wildflowers on the famous Giant City Nature Trail.

Campers have various options, including 85 Class A sites and a more primitive Class C area. Stay at the rustic Giant City Lodge, featuring cabins and an excellent dining spot. Take in the natural wonders, try rock climbing, or go for a horseback ride on the 12-mile loop trail. Giant City State Park is your ticket to an amazing outdoor adventure and the perfect place to RV camp!

9. Ferne Clyffe State Park

Location: Goreville, IL

Wow Factor: Ferne Clyffe boasts limestone bluffs, wooded areas, cliff caves, and seasonal waterfalls fed by runoff from elevated bluffs.

Need To Know: Ferne Clyffe State Park features a lovely intermittent waterfall along the 0.7-mile easy-rated Big Rocky Hollow Trail, perfect for all ages and open year-round. It's conveniently located near a campground, attracting bird watchers.

If you're looking for outdoor adventure in Southern Illinois, Ferne Clyffe State Park is definitely worth a visit. This scenic wonder has been attracting visitors for over a century thanks to its lush ferns, fascinating geology, and diverse plant life. Conveniently located just off I-57 and I-24, this 2,470-acre gem on Route 37 near Goreville offers camping options for every taste.

Deer Ridge Campground is perfect for RV campers. Expect comfortable sites with electricity, picnic tables, and cooking grills. Drinking water, showers, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station are also available at Deer Ridge. Don't forget to explore the park's many hiking trails and discover the natural beauty that surrounds you! And if you need more inspiration, check out the many things to do in Ferne Clyffe State Park.

Best State Parks In Illinois For Hiking

Explore the natural beauty of Illinois with some of the best locations for hiking. Castle Rock, Mississippi Palisades, and Fox Ridge offer miles of trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, making them ideal destinations for a day trip. Discover the Midwest's hidden gems as you traverse rugged terrains, enjoy scenic overlooks, and connect with nature in these captivating state parks.

10. Castle Rock State Park

Location: Oregon, IL

Wow Factor: Castle Rock is a bluff showcasing St. Peter Sandstone from the Middle Ordovician period. Newly exposed parts are composed of white quartz, while older sections exhibit brown tints due to limonite formation. The bluff is located along the Sandwich Fault Zone, which separates Ordovician from Cambrian exposures.

Need To Know: A popular trail to the summit is the easy Castle Rock State Park Lookout trail.

If you're looking for things to do in Castle Rock State Park, situated along the Rock River in Ogle County, you won't be disappointed. The park is a nature haven, just three miles south of Oregon, and is situated in the Rock River Hills region. It boasts rolling terrain, rock formations, ravines, and distinct northern plant life. The sandstone bluff by the river lends the park its name.

With six miles of marked hiking trails, visitors can explore the diverse woodland wildlife and bird species, providing an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the park offers cross-country skiing and tobogganing during suitable weather conditions.

11. Mississippi Palisades State Park

Location: Savanna, IL

Wow Factor: The park and its surrounding river areas teem with a diverse array of wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, wild turkeys, and the striking pileated woodpecker. Eagles can often be seen feeding at the river, particularly in January and February. Thanks to the migration of birds along the river, the Mississippi Palisades fill with melodious bird songs during both spring and fall.

Need To Know: During the three-day firearm deer season, which occurs on the weekend preceding Thanksgiving Day weekend, hiking trails will be temporarily closed.

Mississippi Palisades State Park, a National Natural Landmark in Carroll County near Savanna, preserves a section of the Mississippi Palisades with caves and cliffs along the river. The 2,500-acre park boasts a rich Native American history and features a 15-mile trail system, offering hikers a connection to the past.

Among the things to do in Mississippi Palisades State Park, a hidden gem state park in Illinois, visitors can explore the trails that vary in difficulty. Northern ones are wider, while southern ones, closer to the bluff, are narrower and potentially hazardous when wet. Developed overlooks, such as Ozzie’s Point and Lookout Point, offer stunning views, with Oak Point featuring a trail suitable for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

12. Fox Ridge State Park

Location: Charleston, IL

Wow Factor: Arrowheads and artifacts discovered in this region suggest that it was inhabited by prehistoric Native American cultures. The early historic tribes in the area included the Piankashaw and the Illinois.

Need To Know: The park's diverse landscape, set against the Embarras River, offers stunning views from the 144-step staircase to Eagle's Nest.

Fox Ridge State Park, one of the best state parks in fall, sprawls across 2,064 acres south of Charleston. Its steep ridges, lush valleys, and rugged hiking trails make it a hiker's paradise. Throughout the seasons, the trails showcase a dynamic environment — from snow-covered winters to vibrant spring wildflowers and the brilliant hues of fall.

The eight-mile trail system, featuring wooden bridges and resting spots, invites hikers to explore the ravines, hills, and meandering paths. Wildlife sightings, including turkey, deer, and various birds, add to the allure - there is so much to see and things to do in Fox Ridge State Park!

Little-Known State Parks In Illinois

Discover hidden wonders at Walnut Point, Sam Parr, and Lincoln Trail. These lesser-known gems promise serene landscapes, wildlife, and historic trails, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.

13. Walnut Point State Park

Location: Oakland, IL

Wow Factor: The park features two meandering, picturesque, tree-lined roads for motor vehicles. The roadside scenery comes alive in spring with the vibrant blooms of redbuds and wildflowers, and during the fall, a stunning array of foliage colors graces the landscape.

Need To Know: A concession stand and boat rental are available.

Walnut Point State Park in east-central Illinois has everything for nature lovers – woods, water, and wildlife galore! This 671-acre park, situated 20 miles northeast of Charleston, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and even cross-country skiing.

The park features a prairie restoration plot and a 65-acre nature preserve, Upper Embarras Woods, where visitors can spot a variety of mammals, birds, and other wildlife.

Don't miss the star of the show: the 59-acre Walnut Point Lake with 6.3 miles of scenic shoreline, offering a peaceful retreat for waterfowl and wildlife. There's no shortage of things to do in Walnut Point State Park, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

14. Sam Parr State Park

Location: Newton, IL

Wow Factor: Here's more info on the community efforts: For many years, the people of Jasper County, inspired by former resident and conservationist Sam Parr, strived to establish a state park. Because of their efforts, in 1960, the Department of Natural Resources acquired 72 acres of land, approximately, bringing the Jasper County Conservation Area to life.

Need To Know: There are over two miles of hiking trails and 13 miles of horseback riding trails.

Sam Parr State Park (Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area), a 1,180-acre park in Jasper County, Illinois, is a testament to community dedication, named in honor of conservationist Sam Parr. Established in 1960 and expanded over the years, the park features a 183-acre lake created by a dam in 1971.

This scenic area holds historical significance, with Native American habitation dating back nearly 1,000 years and the Piankashaw settling after negotiating a treaty in 1812.

The lake, nestled in rolling, timbered terrain, attracts wood ducks and supports a diverse array of fish species. With its rich history and natural beauty, Sam Parr State Park offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the many things to do in Sam Parr State Park.

15. Lincoln Trail State Park

Location: Marshall, IL

Wow Factor: The highlight of the park is the 146-acre Lincoln Trail Lake.

Need To Know: The 0.5-mile Beech Tree Trail from the boat dock to Lakeside Campground offers views of the beech-maple forest. Adventurous hikers can explore the two-mile Sand Ford Nature Trail, which winds through an oak-hickory forest, revealing the park's diverse habitats.

Whether you're into history, unique plants, or simply outdoor fun, Lincoln Trail State Park offers a diverse range of experiences. Found a couple of miles south of Marshall in Clark County, this 1,023-acre park got its name from the trail Abraham Lincoln's family took in 1831 from Indiana to Illinois. Before that, it was home to Native American groups, including the Miami, Kickapoo, and Mascouten.

Now, it's a beautiful spot for checking out American Beech woods, unique wildflowers like squaw-root and beech drops, and enjoying activities like boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and winter sports. There's something for everyone and tons of things to do in Lincoln Trail State Park.

Have you been to any of these spots? Think they are some of the best state parks in Illinois? How about the best in America? If you're looking for more natural formations to visit in the Land of Lincoln, I think you should check out Cave-in-Rock State Park — it is captivating!

Taking a road trip to visit some of these beautiful natural destinations, be sure to pack this handy packing list. And if you need a place to rest your head, check out these cozy vacation rentals!