The Best Illinois State Parks Worth Visiting

Illinois might be known for flat farmland, but our state parks reveal surprising natural beauty.

Northern Illinois

Starved Rock State Park

Near: Utica (90 miles SW of Chicago) Known for: Canyons, waterfalls, dramatic bluffs

The crown jewel of Illinois parks. Eighteen canyons carved by glacial meltwater create stunning scenery.

Best trails:

• St. Louis Canyon - Most photographed waterfall

• French Canyon - Lush and less crowded

• Lover's Leap - Overlook views

When to go: Spring for waterfalls, fall for colors. Avoid summer weekends (parking nightmare).

Matthiessen State Park

Near: Utica (next to Starved Rock) Known for: Canyons without crowds

The "secret" alternative to Starved Rock. Similar geology, fraction of the visitors.

Don't miss: The lower dells area with its rock formations.

Illinois Beach State Park

Near: Zion (Lake Michigan shore) Known for: Beach, dunes, nature center

Only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in Illinois. Great for swimming and birding.

Central Illinois

Giant City State Park

Near: Carbondale Known for: Massive sandstone formations, rock climbing

Sandstone blocks that look like streets of a giant city. Excellent lodge with dining.

Activities:

• Rock climbing (permit required)

• Horseback riding

• Challenging hiking trails

• Stone lodge dining

Pere Marquette State Park

Near: Grafton (confluence of Illinois and Mississippi) Known for: Bluffs, lodge, eagles

Stunning river bluffs and famous rustic lodge. Winter eagle watching is spectacular.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

Near: Collinsville Known for: Ancient civilization, UNESCO site

Not a nature park but remarkable: largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico.

Southern Illinois

Shawnee National Forest

Near: Southern tip of Illinois Known for: Garden of the Gods, dramatic rock formations

Illinois's most dramatic landscapes. Garden of the Gods will change how you see the state.

Must-see spots:

• Garden of the Gods - Observation trail with stunning rock formations

• Rim Rock - National Recreation Trail

• Little Grand Canyon - 3-mile loop through canyons

Cache River State Natural Area

Near: Cypress Known for: Ancient cypress trees, wetlands

1,000-year-old cypress trees in a southern swamp ecosystem. Illinois's Everglades.

Ferne Clyffe State Park

Near: Goreville Known for: Waterfalls, shelter caves, hawks

17 trails through sheltered canyons and past a 100-foot waterfall.

Planning Your Visit

Best Seasons

• Spring: Waterfalls flowing, wildflowers, fewer crowds

• Fall: Spectacular colors, comfortable temperatures

• Winter: Frozen waterfalls, eagle watching, solitude

• Summer: Swimming, camping (but crowded)

Camping Tips

• Reserve early (especially Starved Rock)

• Many parks have cabins for non-campers

• Check amenities—varies by park

Leave No Trace

• Pack out trash

• Stay on marked trails

• Don't disturb wildlife

• Respect other visitors