Illinois Beach State Park 1 Lake Front Drive, Zion, IL 60099

"It's a shame because it's right on Lake Michigan shoreline. Sadly it's more like it's been lost in time and left to decay. It does add to it's spooky charm, I guess."

"This old abandoned public beach house appears to be in excellent condition. It would be wonderful if someone could find a way to restore it; reopened it and put it back into use. It looks like the beach frontage and the parking lots are getting a lot of attention. Might there be any plans to also restore this wonderful look'n facility."

"It's a nice park in an urban area. We went here back in the 80s, when the Zion nuclear power station was next door and in operation. It's gone now, but luckily, the park remains. Summer time and holidays, get there early because the park will fill up quick if you don't have a reservation. We've been fortunate to be able to lock in sites each time right near the water where you can hear the waves from the campsite and get that familiar smell of Lake Michigan air. Sadly, the park does have some issues, and the conservation police last visit were there in abundance, but all in all, it's a great staycation type thing where it's far from home, but not too far. Have always met some great folks each time we've stayed here."

"**Safety concern** I am disappointed that I have to share this, as I have many wonderful memories at this campground but as I have been informed that the campground is not changing any practices, I want people to be aware. I camped here last month and a tree fell on my tent (see photos). I am so thankful my group happened to be away from our campsite at the time, otherwise the outcome would be much worse. This tree was marked with a blue dot on the side which indicates that it is marked for removal. (I did not know this prior). There was no wind or storms that evening and the tree fell without any outside factors. I have been informed that there are many trees around the campground that are marked with blue dots to be removed, but that also tree removal services are backlogged so they will not be removed any time soon. I believe campsites that indicate safety hazards should be blocked off, but since that is not a change being made, the least I could do is inform anyone planning to camp here to check surroundings, and do not pitch tent under any large trees. This is a practice I take seriously when dispersed camping, however, I let my guard down as I figured a state park campground would prioritize safety. This event was really scary, but I am grateful I walked away from it. Families coming to camp, please be aware and check your site for any large marked trees."

"We love this park. Free entry for visitors. Closes at dusk (8pm). So many renovations have happened in the last 5 years: removal of many eyesores such as old changing and shower areas replaced by new showers, an addition of a gift shop (open Wednesdays-Sundays only), reopening of the nature center. Super quiet with hardly any people Monday-Thursday mornings, great for a meditative stroll. Staff/Park rangers do a great job keeping the beaches clean. No pets allowed on the beach. And lastly, the newly reopened hotel seems like a real gem.. we wonder why more people don't have receptions in their beautiful ball room with it's gorgeous views of the lake."