Sometimes it's nice just to unplug and get away. While a walk around the block can do plenty to help clear my head, nothing quite compares to hitting the road and seeking some serenity in a far-flung place. Fortunately, there are some incredible Illinois state parks - some of which are just far enough off the beaten path that they offer the space and quiet needed for a full reset. And the most remote state park in Illinois makes it easy to relax and simplify without ever having to leave its boundaries. Read on to learn more about Walnut Point State Park in Illinois.

Walnut Point State Park is located in rural East Central Illinois, just outside the small town of Oakland, which has a local population of under 800 residents. With no major cities surrounding the 671-acre property, Walnut Point is one of the most remote state parks in Illinois.

The closest large city is the college town of Charleston, which is about 20 miles away. Nearby highways include I-57, U.S. 36, and Illinois Route 133.

The park was named after the county's first pioneer settlement, which was established about two miles from the park in the 1830s. Its main draw is the 59-acre Walnut Point Lake, where fishers have the chance to angle for bass, bluegill, brown bullhead, crappie, sunfish, and catfish.

Motorboats and swimming aren't allowed in the lake, but there are numerous floating docks, piers, and feet of shoreline that are perfect for posting up. Visitors can also kayak and canoe in the lake, as well as in the Embarras River.

The park's simple beauty is unparalleled, and two scenic drives wind throughout the woods surrounded by hickory, oak, sassafras, locust, walnut, and maple trees.

Prime for exploring is a prairie restoration area and the Embarras Woods, an idyllic 65-acre forest preserve.

Several short trails meander throughout the woods, totaling about three miles in all.

Animal lovers can try their luck at spotting local wildlife such as owls, songbirds, herons, Canada geese, ducks, reptiles, deer, and more.

One trail leads hikers to an unexpected destination: an abandoned observatory.

Those wanting to truly escape can set up camp at the secluded park, with sites available for both RVs and tents.

Reservations are required to secure your spot, and camping is allowed generally from May-November.

Parkgoers don't even need to leave the park for a home-cooked meal. The Lazy Day Cafe, formerly known as the Walnut Point Restaurant, offers classics like fish and chips, sandwiches and paninis, burgers, salads, French fries, appetizers, and desserts. Firewood can also be purchased there, and kayaks are available for rent.

So, would you escape for a getaway at one of the best state parks in Illinois? Have another favorite underrated outdoor spot? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by visiting the Walnut Point State Park website - and make sure you're equipped with all the hiking essentials. Driving across the state for your nature escape? Check out our list of the ultimate road trip must-haves.

Have you visited Walnut Point State Park in Illinois? Let us know in the comments!