White Pines Forest State Park Is an Underrated Illinois Park That Will Surprise You This Fall

White Pines Forest State Park is synonymous with my childhood. Located in the northern Illinois town of Mt. Morris, this 385-acre state park is well worth a day trip from Chicago—or anywhere in the Prairie State—this fall. With hiking trails, cabins, and an almost guaranteed chance to see deer, there’s no better place to watch the leaves change than at what I consider to be the most impressive state park in Illinois.

My parents began visiting White Pines Forest State Park long before I was born. Once I showed up earth-side, my days were spent camping at the park long before I could even walk. Being just a 2-hour drive from the Windy City, many weekends were spent exploring the trails, such as the Sunset and Sleepy Hollow Trail Loop. One of my favorite childhood memories includes learning to roller skate down the road while my dad cooked us hot dogs on the grill next to our old-school camper. 

An overnight trip to White Pines meant one of two things: camping or staying in one of the rustic cabins. Either way, I knew I was going to get a chance to browse the lodge’s gift shop and say "hi" to my old friend, Max: a friendly resident macaw who was a fixture at the park for more than 20 years. His bright blue feathers and cheerful chatter were a highlight of every visit to White Pines.

Today, White Pines Forest State Park still feels like a secret. Despite growing up in Chicagoland, I can’t recall a single friend of mine who had ever visited the park. It’s shocking to me, as it is one of the most beautiful places you can get to on a day trip from Chicago. In addition to camping and hiking, there’s a lovely stream where you can go fishing. In fact, my very first fishing experience was at the state park. While I didn’t catch anything with fins, I do remember accidentally hooking a crayfish. 

If you’re in full vacation mode, there are many picnic areas where you can soak in the views of the moss-covered cliffs. Being from the city, I’m continually impressed when I explore the rest of Illinois and see just how many cool geographical features our state really has.

Another truly unique element of White Pines Forest State Park is its dinner theater. The lodge presents a variety of entertainment options ranging from throwback cover bands to annual holiday programs. You can often package these programs together with an overnight stay in their cabins. 

If you’re camping and don’t feel like cooking your own meal (or just visiting the park for the day), there is a full-service restaurant that offers breakfast and dinner. I’ve always enjoyed grabbing a seat by the fire in the Fireside Room. The blueberry pancakes are my personal favorite way to warm up after spending a night under the stars. The restaurant once saved my dad and me when our campsite burgers didn’t go as planned!

Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just watching the trees make their autumnal change, this state park is one you should acquaint yourself with. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.