Ferne Clyffe State Park
Ferne Clyffe Falls is said to be the most visited waterfall in Illinois, and for good reason; you can actually walk behind this waterfall! This 2400 acre park has incredible geological features that people have taken notice of for at least the past 100 years. To visit Ferne Clyffe State Park, drive south on IL-37 from Downtown Goreville. In just 2 minutes, you will arrive at the entrance to the park. For more information, click here.
Apple River Canyon State Park
Apple River Canyon State Park is in the hilly northwest corner of Illinois in Jo Daviess County near the Wisconsin border. Limestone bluffs, deep ravines, springs, streams and wildlife characterize this area. Apple River Canyon State Park is located at 8763 E. Canyon Road in Apple River Illinois. For more information, click here. My favorite activity to enjoy at Apple River Canyon State Park is hiking. The park has five named hiking trails, each varying in in length, and difficulty. The park was established by the State of Illinois in 1932, and today consisting of 1,907 acres.
Cache River State Natural Area
The Cache River State Natural Area holds onto some of the highest quality aquatic and terrestrial natural communities remaining in Illinois. Wetlands within this area are so important to migratory waterfowl and shorebirds that in 1996 the Ramsar Convention collectively designated them a Wetland of International Importance, only the 19th wetland in the United States to receive the distinction. The site offers a wide array of recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing and seasonal hunting programs. For more information, click here.
Jackson Falls
Jackson Falls is one of the best waterfalls in all of Illinois. During the 5 mile hike to get to the base of the falls, you can also see two other waterfalls, along a beautiful canyon. During the summer months, Jackson Falls is one of the most popular swimming holes in the state. But what’s even more stunning is the rocks that surround this area. There are numerous sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders. The area is also a popular place for rock climbing. In fact, there are 60 climbing locations to choose from, each about 50-60 feet in height. Jackson Falls is located in Shawnee National Forest at Glen St Falls Rd, Simpson, IL 62985. For more information, click here.
Sylvan Island
Sylvan Island Recreational Park is located on the Mississippi River just off the shore of Moline Illinois. The Island is connected to the mainland and is accessible by a walking bridge! The park is a converted abandoned industrial site, that is still riddled with the remains of the long forgotten Sylvan Steel plant. While lots of evidence of the plants existence still exists, nature is slowly devouring the remaining ruins. The park is located on 2nd street and 1st avenue in Moline. For years the Island sat abandoned, and was a popular spot for fishermen, and bird watchers. Now the island is officially open to the public, and is once again making a big impact in the community. Sylvan Island has a total acreage of 37 acres, with 1.24 miles of trails both circling the Island and winding throughout. The park is open daily, year round from 6 am until sunset. For more information, click here.
For more of the best parks and amazing locations in Illinois, click here. For the best lodging and campgrounds, click here. For nearby family activities, click here.