23 National Parks in ILLINOIS (Historic, Inspiring, and Exciting)

There are specific places on Earth that are preserved because of the great significance that the place holds.

National parks are created to protect and preserve the existence of natural resources and wildlife in a specific area.

Although, so many national parks also preserve historical sites where great things have happened or great people were born.

Visiting national parks should be at the top of your list because it enlightens you about the world you live in and allows you to explore beautiful places and have fun.

Continue reading this article to know about National Parks to visit in Illinois.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the State Parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Chicago, Illinois

1. Blackhawk Park (Astounding Views)

Blackhawk Park is a beautiful park in Chicago with an astounding view.

It is a protected area and offers many intriguing outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.

The park is a famous spot for tourists and residents of the city.

There are many activities to engage in when visiting the park, including hiking, which is a popular activity for visitors to engage in at the park.

You can hike through the trails at the park and get a stunning view of the natural scenery around the park.

In addition, fishing is another activity at the park, thanks to the Des Plaines River that flows through the park.

The park is also a perfect spot for family picnics and wildlife watching as they have a variety of bird species, deer, beavers, and other animals.

Blackhawk Park is a must-visit spot if you want to connect with nature.

Address: 2318 N Lavergne Ave, Chicago, IL 60639, United States

2. Pullman National History Park (Industrial History Insight)

This is the right place to enlighten yourself about the history of the United States.

Pullman National Historic Park offers an interesting insight into the country’s industrial history. 

If you love history and want to expand your knowledge, this park should be on your to-visit list.

Visitors that come to the park can explore the historical building and exhibits that tell the detailed story of the Pullman company.

The Pullman Company was once a major park in the country’s transportation industry, highlighting the company’s true history.

There are a couple of activities you can engage in at the park, like touring through the park with knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who provide you with fascinating facts about the park.

You can also hike through the park’s trails and see the beautiful surrounding landscape while learning about the park’s history.

Address: 610 E 111th St, Chicago, IL 60628, United States

3. Palmisano Park (Serene Quarry Site)

Suppose you want a beautiful, serene environment to spend time with your family and loved ones.

In that case, Palmisano Park is the right place.

The park is situated in a former quarry site, covering 26.60 acres.

It is known to be a dynamic park with many amenities and attractions.

Some amenities include a walking trail, athletic fields, preserved quarry walls, fishing ponds, and a playground for children.

Palmisano Park was recognized as a national park in 2009 by the National Recreation and Park Association due to the park’s beauty and significance in the community.  

As a visitor to the park, you can engage in several activities like fishing, hiking, biking, taking a walk along the park’s trails, and many other activities.

Hiking to the top of the hill in the park will give you a beautiful view of the city.

A fieldhouse at the park is available for rent to host special events and gatherings.

Address: 2700 S Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois 60608, United States

Also see our article on Amusement parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Champaign, Illinois

1. West Side Park (Midwest Natural Beauty)

Do you want to enjoy a relaxing time with your family?

West Side Park is a fantastic place for tourists and residents to come and enjoy the serene natural beauty of the Midwest.

The park was established in 1854, covering 13.9 acres of land.

It is a very popular spot for visitors and locals, offering several engaging activities.

If you enjoy exploring and spending time in an engaging environment, the park has hiking trails and a sports field.

There is also a beautiful lake with various species of fish, and you can rent a boat to paddle around the lake while enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife at the park.

The park has a picnic area to spend quality time with yourself and your family.

Address: 400 W University Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, United States

2. Hessel Park (Lush Green Space)

Hessel Park was established in 1918, and it covers 22.2 acres of land with many tall, beautiful trees around it.

The park is a stunning green space and a popular spot for residents and tourists.

With its well-kept, neat, and lush trees, it has been a destination of amusement for visitors.

You can enjoy a picnic with family and friends on the grass under the shade of the huge trees in the park.

There is a playground with facilities like swings, slides, and climbing structures for children to enjoy at the park.

If you want to have a leisurely activity, you can stroll through the park’s spectacular walking path that offers a pictorial beauty of the park’s surroundings.

You can bring your camera to capture the perfect view and keep precious memory.

Address: 1401 Grandview Dr, Champaign, IL 61820, United States

Also see our article on Trampoline parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Urbana, Illinois

1. Crystal Lake Park (Urban Forest Beauty)

This astounding national park features a beautiful mature urban forest and offers many amenities to its visitors.

Some of the facilities the park provides include picnic areas, a lake house, a labyrinth, a playground for children, packing spaces, Bussey woods, boating, and many more.

The park is home to many festivals and events as the park provides rentable areas and pavilions to host camp programs, concerts, and other events.

Crystal Lake Park spans 144 acres and offers the natural beauty of the environment for visitors to enjoy.

You can hike through the park’s trails to get a perfect view of the landscape and lake surrounding the park.

If you also enjoy water activities, you can fish on the lake, as it has varieties of fish, including bluegill, catfish, and bass, or you can rent a boat and enjoy a relaxing time on the lake.   

Address: 1401 N Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, United States

2. Meadowbrook Park (Artistic Sculpture Garden)

Meadowbrook Park is a beautiful clear layout of green landscape.

The park covers 130 acres and is home to various wildlife and plant species.

One of the main attractions of Meadowbrook is the Wandell Sculpture Garden which has more than a dozen sculptures designed by local artists.

This garden is a perfect spot to observe the art of the structures and bask in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

You can engage in many activities at the park, including biking, sports, nature walks, picnics in the garden, and many more.

Plus, if you enjoy nature and are interested in exploring nature, you should visit the park’s prairie restoration areas, home to native plants and wildlife.

There is also a serene spot to relax and enjoy a peaceful quiet afternoon while reading or having a picnic.

Address: 2808 S Race St., Urbana, Il 61801, United States

Also see our article on Water Parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Peoria and Hanna City, Illinois

1. Luthy Botanical Gardens (Diverse Plant Life)

Luthy Botanical Garden is a gorgeous, breathtaking national park with diverse plant life and beautiful green landscapes.

This beautiful garden covers five acres and offers several theme gardens and different activities.

There are many attractions at the Luthy Garden, but the most popular one is the astonishing rose garden which is home to over 100 different types of roses, and all the flowers are cared for tenderly by expert horticulturists.

If you want to create a beautiful memory like the perfect wedding or proposal, this is the place of your dreams.

The park also has Herb Gardens, a Children’s Garden, and others, and in all these gardens, you are either learning about herbs or having fun in an interactive space.

There are many recreational activities to enjoy while visiting the park, like events, seasonal celebrations, garden tours, and many more.

Address: 2520 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603, United States

2. Wildlife Prairie Park (2000 Acres of Nature)

Wildlife Prairie Park is a stunning park that covers 2000 acres of nature preserve.

This park features diverse wildlife and natural habitats and is considered a national treasure.

There is something for everyone at Wildlife Prairie Park, including hiking trails, wild woods laser tag, kayaking, camping lodges, and more.

If you love outdoor activities and wish to explore wildlife, this should be on your list.

The park has amenities to host events like weddings, award banquets, retreats, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, and many other events.

Visitors can ride the park’s miniature train while getting a tour of the beautiful woodlands and prairies, and there is a zipline course that allows visitors to soar over the treetops and bask in the breathtaking views of the park.

Address: 3826 N Taylor Rd, Hanna City, IL 61536, United States

Also see our article on Indoor Water Parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Makanda and Sheffield, Illinois

1. Giant City Park (Sandstone Bluffs Beauty)

Giant City Park has a breathtaking natural beauty that captivates and attracts visitors from all over the world.

This delightful park offers various recreational activities such as camping, horseback riding, fishing, and rappelling.

The park has massive bluffs of a sandstorm formed 12 years ago, giving the park a landscape like no other.

It also has many wildflowers and very tall trees in different variations.

The simple stunning beauty of Giant City Park is the perfect natural luxury that visitors need when visiting the park.

You can engage in quite a number of activities as they have facilities for these activities, such as camping sites, brochures for hiking trails, electricity, stables for horses, and a lodge.

Overall, this park is the perfect place to make lasting memories.

Address: 460 Giant City Lodge Rd, Makanda, IL 62958. United States

2. Hennepin Canal State Park (Historic Hiking Trails)

This beautiful historic park is located in Sheffield in the Northwestern region of Illinois.

There are many recreational activities to engage in this wonderland, including canoeing. Boating. Fishing, picnicking, camping, horse riding, and many more.

The Hennepin Canal State Park has a hiking and biking trail about 155 miles from the Illinois River to the rock river, and some part of the trail is open to snowmobiling and horseback riding.

Along the park’s trails is a diverse landscape filled with natural wonders offering visitors a beautiful sight.

Visitors at the park are given a detailed history of the area and can also explore the natural beauty of the area.

The visitor’s center at the park has different sections showing how the canal was built.

Address: Rt 40 South Of I-80, Sheffield, IL 61361, United States

Also see our article on Amusement Parks in Illinois.

National Parks in Mt. Morri and Collinsville, Illinois

1. Cahokia Mounds (Prehistoric City Remains)

This park is a fascinating site that preserves the remains of the largest prehistoric city that existed in the Mississippi River Valley.

The park is one of North America’s top archaeological sites and has been made a National Historic Landmark.

If you visit Cahokia Mounds Park, you can explore the historical sites and also see many cultural attractions.

The park has an interactive program that enlightens history enthusiasts about the history and culture of the people who populated the site.

Visitors will get guided tours of the site to discover more about the history and significance of the mounds.

Plus, history is not the only thing the park offers; it also offers several outdoor recreational activities like hiking, fishing in the lake near the park, and picnicking in the park’s picnic areas while enjoying the green landscape surrounding it.

Address: 30 Ramey Dr, Collinsville, IL 62234, United States

2. White Pines Forest Park (Camping in Nature)

This beautiful wonderland is a natural area that offers visitors different outdoor activities and captivating views.

The park is located in the Rock River Valley and spans 385 acres.

White Pines Forest Park is perfect for families to go and enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing in a serene and beautiful environment.

It has a beautiful forest with modern lodge facilities in the forest for camping and retreats.

The park has intriguing features like magnificent trees, wildflowers, and wildlife animals.

If you would love to stargaze with your loved one, the park has campsites with automobile access and modern facilities like showers, flush toilets, and electricity.

Visitors can also hike through the trails to see the blossoming spring flowers, whispering pines, and vine-covered limestone in the park.

Address: 6712 West Pines Road, Mt. Morris, IL 61054, United States

Also see our article on Picnic Spots in Illinois.

National Parks in Goreville and Springfield, Illinois

1. Ferne Clyffe Park (Rock Climbing & Waterfalls)

Ferne Clyffe Park is an astounding park located in Goreville, Illinois

This park has a breathtaking natural beauty which consists of lush forests, waterfalls, and towering cliffs.

The waterfall is the main attraction at the park, and visitors are always amazed at the sight.

Hiking is one of the popular recreational activities visitors engage in at the park, and they hike through the hiking trails to see the forests and scenic areas of the park.

There is also a campsite and picnic area to spend quality time with your family.

The park allows the visitors to do rock climbing and rappelling activities, allowing climbers of all skill levels to practice their skills.

Ferne Clyffe Park is the right to get that adrenaline rush and also have a relaxing day.  

Address: 37 Route 37, Goreville, IL 62939, United States

2. Lincoln Home National Historic Park (Abraham Lincoln’s Home)

This park is a national treasure of the United States and a true gem for national enthusiasts and experts.

The Lincoln Home National Historic Park preserves the only home of America’s most beloved president, Abraham Lincoln.

People that come to the park get a guided tour of the home of the Lincoln family, which has been renovated and restored to its 1860 appearance.

While touring the Lincoln Home, visitors can also explore the visitor center that features exhibits and displays about Lincoln’s life and career.

It also has a place where visitors can purchase books and other sites related to Lincoln’s legacy.

Some other events are held at the park, like a living history demonstration and lectures by scholars.

A historical site is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to know more about American history.

Address: 426 S 7th St, Springfield, Illinois 62701, United States

Also see our article on Museums in Illinois.

National Parks in Keithsburg and Kewanee, Illinois

1. Big River Forest Park (Mississippi River Habitat)

Big River Forest Park in western Illinois covers 2900 acres of forest and was established in 1928.

The park formerly had a massive prairie that covered most parts of Illinois and is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River.

There are many wildlife and plants at the park; among the plants are two endangered species called Penstemon and Patterson’s bindweed.

The common plants in this area include bluestem, June grass, Indian grass, the flower of an hour, purple prairie clover, cotton weed, and so many other wild plants.

Hiking is one of the activities people engage in at the park, in which they get to see all of the beauty this vegetation gives to the park.

Camping is also popular in the park as they have many campsites with modern facilities.

Plan a visit to see the beautiful Big River Forest Park!

Address: 1337 Township Road 2850n Ave, Keithsburg, IL 61442, United States

2. Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area (Year-Round Activities)

The beauty of this park is something to behold, from the structures of the building in the park to the landscape of vegetation around the park.

Johnson-Sauk Trail Park is a park where you can do so many activities all year round, including skiing in the winter, picnics in the summer, exploring fields of wild plants during the summer, and fishing in the spring.

This 1300 acres of serene natural beauty and a 58-acre lake provide many recreational activities for visitors to engage in when they visit the park.

The park allows activities like picnicking, camping, fishing, boating, hiking, winter sports, and hunting.

Plus, the campsite is fully equipped with the necessary amenities that campers need for a relaxing and comfortable stay at the park.

There is an abundance of wildlife to explore at the park, and this park has everything you need to have an amazing time.

Address: 28616 Sauk Trail Rd, Kewanee, IL 61443, United States

Also see our article on Aquariums in Illinois.

National Parks in Oregon and DePue, Illinois

1. Castle Rock Park (Rock Formations & Views)

This national gem is located on the banks of the Rock River Valley.

The park has magnificent rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views, which is why tourists from around the world want to experience the park’s natural beauty.

It has a very amiable environment that is very welcoming to guests.

The castle rock is recognized in Illinois to be a remarkable area of scientific importance.

It is very accessible, with parking spaces and restrooms available for visitors at the park.

Visitors can partake in any recreational activities that they enjoy in the park.

Some of the activities include fishing, hiking, camping, and many more.

The park is a beloved destination for outdoor buffs.

Address: 1365 W Castle Rd, Oregon 61061, United States

2. Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area (Wetland Habitat)

The place is preserved and managed to care for migratory waterfowls, and it has various wetland habitats critical to the waterfowls.

This astounding natural wonder offers an amazing experience to visitors.

The park covers 2200 acres through the Illinois River, and the name was coined from the two towns that border it, Donnelley and DePue.

It is a former quarry site now transferred into a beautiful natural habitat for wildlife species.

Fishing is the main interest at the park as the Illinois River is home to different species of fish, such as carp, bass, channel, catfish, bullhead, sauger, and walleye.

The park is known to have a high-quality hunting experience, and it also offers campsites for visitors that want to spend the night and bask in the beauty of the surroundings.

Address: 1001 W 4th St, Depue, IL 61322, United States

Also see our article on Playgrounds in Illinois.

National Parks in McHenry and Apple River, Illinois

1. Moraine Hills Park (Wetlands & Bird Watching)

This park is a paradise for recreational activities, from fishing to biking and hiking, and it has everything.

The 2200 acres of land comprise wetlands and lakes home to various plants and wildlife.

Moraine Hills Park is located in the northeastern region of Illinois and has geological history, making the park a unique destination.

Tourists and residents come to them to engage in the activities available at the park and also see the beautiful site surrounding the park.

This park is a perfect place for bird watching as they have recognized over 200 species of birds in the park.

If you are interested in the park’s geological history, it has a visitor center featuring exhibits on its geological and cultural history.

In addition to all of these activities, the park also offers camping sites, picnic areas, and facilities to engage in water-based activities.

Address: 1510 S River Rd, McHenry, IL 60051, United States

2. Apple River Canyon State Park (Hiking & River Activities)

Apple River Canyon State Park is an astounding and stunning natural area in the hilly northwest of Illinois.

The park is filled with beautiful plants and amusing wildlife.

It consists of 1,907 acres and was established in 1932 by the state of Illinois.

The park’s name is coined from the Apple River, which is very close to the park’s area.

If you want a perfect family getaway, this is the perfect spot for you.

Hiking through the trails around the canyon and surrounding woodlands at the park provides a breathtaking view of the landscape, river, and wildlife.

The river at the park also provides the opportunity for water activities like fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking.

It also has several picnic areas and campsites, making it a great place for a weekend getaway.

Address: 8763 E. Canyon Road, Apple River, Illinois 61001, United States

Also see our article on Safari in Illinois.

National Parks in Griggsville and Ottawa, Illinois

1. Ray Norbut State Fish and Wildlife Area (Wildlife Habitat)

Have you ever been to a place where everything you see is beautiful and amazes you?

Ray Norbut Park is 1,140 acres of wonder; the park is filled with bushy draws, rocky ravines, and woodlands and is also home to a wide range of wildlife.

This remarkable habitat has a variety of non-harvestable, harvestable, threatened plants and endangered animals.

The park’s woodland contains tree species like Oak, hickory, red, cedar, sugar maple, ironwood, and others.

However, the park is meant for hunting, and it also allows hikers and nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the area.

You can also engage in fishing activities at the Illinois River and Blue Creek, as the rivers have different fish, such as bluegrass, bluegill, catfish, and many more.

Address: 46816 290th Ave, Griggsville, IL 62340, United States

2. Buffalo Rock Park (Bluff Views & Outdoor Fun)

Buffalo Rock Park is a wonderland located on the bluff around the Illinois River, and the park gives a magnificent view of the Illinois River.

The park covers 298 acres of land and is a popular picnic area for many families.

If you are a nature lover, the park is worth visiting.

You can also engage in many outdoor activities, including hiking and camping.

There are many trails to hike through in the park, and if you want to challenge yourself, you can hike through the buffalo rock trail, which leads you to the top of a 125-foot bluff.

You get to see an astounding view from the top and realize that hiking through the trail was worth it.

Another activity you can engage in is fishing; the Illinois River is home to various fish species.

Try rock climbing if you want to do something more adventurous.

The park features several challenging rocks faces popular with climbers of all skill levels.

Overall, there are so many activities you can engage in the Buffalo Rock Park, and it is perfect if you are looking to get out and enjoy nature.

Address: 1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350, United States

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Planetariums, Attractions, and Picnic Spots in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our articles on the national parks in Texas and California.