The Best State Parks to Visit in Illinois

State parks are sacred for their enchanting beauty, scenic natural wonders, the chance to glimpse the past, and protected lands maintained for the enjoyment of all. The definition of “state park” is “any land owned by the government with the intention of preserving its natural aesthetic loveliness, its historical significance, and/or with recreational potential. In Illinois, they take this very seriously.

Illinois Beach State Park

At the extreme northeast corner of the state and bordered by Lake Michigan, Illinois Beach State Park resides in the town of Zion and is a popular escape for those in the Chicago metroplex looking for a relaxing spot to have a quiet picnic, take a chilly swim, or do some fishing without the bustle of the city ruining the vibe.

The park spans 6.5 miles, Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state and is home to over 650 species of plant, including black oak forests, wildflowers in a myriad of colors, and even prickly pear cacti. Camping, boating, and hiking to take in the breathtaking views are only a handful of recreation opportunities afforded to visitors in this 4,160-acre space.

Matthiessen State Park

In the center of the state nestled between the towns of Oglesby and Deer Park and just south of the Illinois River, Matthiessen State Park is rife with various unique topography, it has its own distinct set of park rules to protect the land as well as the visitors. With canyons, waterfalls, rivers, and dense forests, Illinois had to protect some nature lovers from their own curiosity, which includes forbidding rock climbing, the leaving of designated trails, and restricting swimming in all water sources.

The park is a haven for outdoors enthusiasts who fancy geology. Rock formations sculpted by the Vermillion River, crevices, and vast prairies are a small part of why this park gets more unique traffic each year. Come experience the sunflower fields in August, hike the trails, have a picnic in one of the pavilions, or take a horseback ride and see it all from a higher vantage point.

Starved Rock State Park

Composed of mostly sandstone, it is said that much of Starved Rock State Park, and more specifically the prairie and rock formations, was formed by glacial melt and flooding that began 425 million years ago. These geological creations today can be best appreciated during the early spring as the winter snow melts and rain soaks the land in the incredible waterfalls cascading down many of the canyon walls throughout the area.

Many of these waterfalls drain into rivers and streams along the 18 canyons, and while much of it is absorbed into the looser sandstone, the greater streams form waterbodies that nourish the flora and fauna, many of these plants and animals not indigenous in any other parts of Illinois. Anyone who wants to see a beaver, woodchuck, wood duck, or catbird need only travel down East State Highway 71 and walk the trails.

Pere Marquette State Park

North of St. Louis where the Illinois River spills into the Mississippi River, Pere Marquette State Park is one of the younger registered parks, only being officially established in 1931. As is true with much of the state, the land was settled by the Illini tribe, then later became home to a French missionary exploring the area named Pere Marquette. Find an arrowhead or chunk of native pottery as you tour the vast wilderness areas.

Hiking, fishing, and even rock climbing are allowed in designated spots, as well as camping by tent or RV. The best time to visit if you love the changing of the seasons is in the fall. The leaves explode in a vibrant coloring that will take your breath away. Birding is popular and many avian enthusiasts come in January and February in hopes of seeing Bald Eagles.

Moraine Hills State Park

Northwest of Chicago in the town of Mc. Henry, Moraine Hills is named for the geological formations called moraine, which is essentially a collection of stones and detritus left by shifting glaciers. Half of the 2200 acres are wetlands and lakes, and the entire park is bordered on the western edge by the Fox River.

No one will want to miss a visit to Lake Defiance at the heart of the park. It is one of the few lakes in Illinois that has remained, for the most part, undeveloped, retaining its natural condition, which is incredibly rare. Speaking of rare, Pike Marsh on the northeast corner of the park is predominantly a marshy wetland with numerous rare plants that any passionate botanist would lose their mind to view, even if only for a moment.

Tunnel Hill State Trail

Even though it is called a “state trail” according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this delightful wonder is still a state park. In Vienna between Interstate 24 and US Highway 45 near the Kentucky border, Tunnel Hill was once a well-traveled train line during the coal boom of the 1800s, and now many of these paths are the province of cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers who need little more than the stunning unspoiled environment to be happy.

Strap on your helmet and try the River-to-River trails that stretch 9.3 miles from the Mississippi to Ohio Rivers. These are known as the American Discover Trails and are largely unmarked, but with plenty of loyal visitors, you are unlikely to get lost. Large groups are welcome but to combat crowding, if your party is over 25 people, you must register with the park office, and groups of 15 children must have a designated responsible adult to chaperone.

Cave-in-Rock State Park

Many know about the numerous cave systems throughout Missouri, but did you know there are caves in Illinois? Just north of the Ohio River on the southeastern border of Illinois, Cave-in-Rock is a natural wonderland that is sure to bring out your adventurous explorer side. The Cave is set on a high bluff and is 55 feet wide, carved thousands of years ago by water as it pounded the surrounding limestone.

Geology isn’t the only reason to tour the cave and surrounding forested lands. It is said that the caves were shelters for everyone from Native Tribes early settlers to river pirates. The park offers tours, tales, and plenty of souvenirs. Make it a weekend excursion with some hiking, fishing, or camping. There is even a playground area for the kiddos.

Chain O’ Lakes State Park

As if the name wasn’t obvious, if a little lacking in creativity, this aquatic nirvana is the product of three lakes connected to seven additional smaller lakes, that, you guessed it, form a chain. As if that wasn’t enough water to keep any boater, angler, or swimmer happy, there is even one more lake in the park interior. It is even in Lake County (as well as McHenry County) in northeastern Illinois.

Grand total, the surface area of the park totals over 6500 acres with over 488 miles of shoreline. It boasts only 6 miles of hiking and biking trails, much of the draw attracting mostly those who can’t get enough of water activities. 80 acres of the park is a nature preserve and is primarily a bog, which is much of what makes up the park’s land area. It is open year-round except Christmas.

Conclusion

It’s time to take an adventure, to explore the wild and wonderful and mysterious, all within a short commute. With 41 state parks, you are bound to be close to at least one. Get away from the cities, the noise, the hustle, and the traffic. Take the opportunity to unwind, replenish your soul, breathe the calm, clean air, and perhaps find true peace. Nature can do this for you. You just have to let it. If that wasn’t incentive enough, many of the state parks offer free admission. Let your spirit, and your wallet, decide for you. You will feel like a new person and have a story or two to share. Nature is calling. Will you answer?