5 Unbelievable Illinois Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight… No Hiking Required

You might not know that Illinois has some pretty cool waterfalls -- but the Land of Lincoln has some serious stunners! So before you search for "waterfalls near me in Illinois," you'll want to keep reading to discover some of the state's most glorious, easy-to-access waterfalls. While many of the state's falls require a hike over the river and through the woods to access, the following five waterfalls in Illinois are hiding right in plain sight -- no hiking required! So close that browser, and read on, because adventure awaits at these winsome Illinois waterfalls!

1. Apple Canyon Falls (Jo Daviess County)

This park is not very big, which makes seeing everything super easy. You'll be blown away by the lake and waterfall. Read more about Apple River Canyon and the hikes at this scenic park here.

2. Thunder Bay Waterfall (Galena)

This is a scenic lookout in Galena. You will see this Galena waterfall from the parking area, which is located off of a quiet residential road, so there's no hiking required. In fact, you can practically drive right up to the base of the falls, and the scene will take your breath away! It's no wonder Thunder Bay Waterfall is a popular photography spot for couples.

3. Waterfall Glen (Darien)

This Illinois waterfall is best after it rains. If you want to park closest to the waterfall, head to the parking lot on Bluff Road. The trail itself is right by the 6.5 mile marker. And while the waterfall is beautiful all year round, Waterfall Glen is absolutely at its peak beauty during the autumn, when the Illinois landscape comes alive in fall colors.

4. Kinkaid Lake Spillway (Murphysboro)

This place has waterfalls and is also a wonderful swimming hole when temps heat up in the Land of Lincoln. You can hear the falls as soon as you get to the parking area, and you'll see them after just a few quick steps from your car!

5. Krape Park (Freeport)

Scenic views abound at this multi-purpose Illinois park, which has features such as a carousel, mini-golf, swan boat rentals, tennis courts, a baseball diamond, playgrounds, and more. The waterfall is easy to see -- it's a 44-foot high cascades that guests can drive right up to. Limestone rock bluffs and trees surround this jungle-like falls, setting the picture-perfect nature scene.

Have you been to any of these beautiful, easy-access waterfalls before? Are you still wondering "What are some waterfalls near me in Illinois?" We thought you might be. Check out this amazing waterfall day trip that loops past six of the state's most beautiful cascades. Now go chase some waterfalls!