TOP 10 Best hiking trails in state parks in Lake Forest, Illinois

Forest Glen Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 20301 900 North Road in Westville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural retreat offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic, go bird watching, or simply soak in the beauty of nature, Forest Glen Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the serenity and splendor of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Emerald Trails Campground is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Crete, Illinois. Situated at 3132 East Goodenow Road, this campground offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort for those seeking a peaceful getaway. With spacious lodging options, well-maintained park grounds, and a variety of outdoor activities, Emerald Trails Campground is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax by the campfire, explore the surrounding wilderness, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, this campground has something for everyone. Experience the beauty of nature at Emerald Trails Campground and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Forest Preserve located at 3302 Waldron Road in Kankakee, Illinois, is a beautiful park that offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With acres of lush forest, winding trails, and serene lakes, this park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature. Whether you're interested in hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, the Forest Preserve has something for everyone. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Lincoln Trail State Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 16985 East 1350th Road in Marshall, Illinois, United States. This scenic park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the lush forests, rolling hills, and serene lakes while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The park also features historical sites and monuments dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, making it a great destination for history buffs. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an educational experience, Lincoln Trail State Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Lake Alexander Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Momence, Illinois. Situated at 12799 Illinois 114, this charming campground offers a variety of lodging options for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With spacious campsites, cozy cabins, and modern amenities, Lake Alexander Campground provides the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. The campground is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the nearby lake, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, rent a cabin, or simply enjoy a day at the park, Lake Alexander Campground has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Illinois.

Red Hills State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located at 3571 Ranger Lane in Sumner, Illinois, United States. This park offers stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and serene lakes, making it a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing, and camping in this peaceful setting. With its well-maintained trails and scenic vistas, Red Hills State Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day in nature.

Mermet Lake State Conservation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Belknap, Illinois, United States. This beautiful conservation area offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature, with stunning lake views, lush forests, and abundant wildlife to observe. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, Mermet Lake State Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Nippersink Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 900 West Belvidere Road in Round Lake, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush forests, winding trails, and serene lakes. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, picnic, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Nippersink Forest Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Half Day Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 24255 Illinois 21 in Vernon Hills, Illinois, United States. This serene and scenic preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, with lush forests, tranquil lakes, and picturesque hiking trails. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or a fun day out with family and friends, Half Day Forest Preserve has something for everyone. Come and explore the beauty of this natural oasis and enjoy a half day of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Grant Woods Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 25405 West Monaville Road in Ingleside, Illinois, United States. This expansive park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails, Grant Woods Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to go birdwatching, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods, this preserve has something for everyone. Come explore the natural wonders of Grant Woods Forest Preserve and experience the serenity of the great outdoors.

Sherwood Forest Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Hillsboro, Illinois. Situated at 920 City Lake Road, this charming campground offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With spacious campsites, cozy lodging options, and scenic views of the surrounding park, Sherwood Forest Campground provides the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or stay in a cabin, this institution has something for everyone. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, and recreational activities during your stay at Sherwood Forest Campground. With its tranquil atmosphere and convenient location, this campground is the ideal destination for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Cedar Lake Campground is a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Vienna, Illinois. Located at 2090 Gilead Church Road, this picturesque campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With spacious RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent camping options, Cedar Lake Campground provides a variety of lodging choices for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway. Surrounded by lush forests and overlooking the tranquil Cedar Lake, this campground is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, and birdwatching. The well-maintained park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic trails for visitors of all ages to explore and unwind.

The Alto Wine Trail Loft is a unique institution located at 5 Elm Street in Alto Pass, Illinois, United States. This lodging, real estate, and travel agency offers the best location on the Southern Illinois Wine Trail, making it the perfect vacation getaway destination. Each cabin rental on the property provides stunning views of rolling green hills and a water feature, along with screened-in porches and decks to enjoy the scenery. Guests can relax in large fire pits and hot tubs, and take advantage of the convenient location near the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, Shawnee National Forest, and Giant City State Park. Cedar Lake offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities, while Tunnel Hills provides biking and hiking trails. For a memorable stay in the heart of Shawnee National Forest and the Southern Illinois Wine Trail, contact Alto Wine Trail Loft at 618-698-7474 to book your stay.

Independence Grove Forest Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 16400 West Buckley Road in Libertyville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush greenery, scenic trails, and a tranquil lake perfect for picnics, hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors, Independence Grove Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located at 1401 Middlefork Drive in Lake Forest, Illinois, United States. This pristine preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a beautiful savanna ecosystem filled with diverse flora and fauna. With winding trails, peaceful meadows, and tranquil wetlands, Middlefork Savanna is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy a leisurely stroll or hike. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination in Lake Forest.

Channahon State Park, located at 25302 West Story Street in Channahon, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This beautiful park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the park's scenic trails, lush forests, and serene lakes, making it the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Channahon State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 1275 Gilgare Lane in Lake Forest, Illinois, United States. This historic preserve offers visitors a chance to explore lush forests, serene trails, and beautiful landscapes. The highlight of the preserve is the well-preserved Fort Sheridan, a former military base that now serves as a reminder of the area's rich history. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and more while taking in the natural beauty of the preserve. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 8542 North Lake Road in Lena, Illinois, United States. This stunning park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. With its scenic lake, lush forests, and picturesque views, Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the park's many trails, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park and experience the beauty of nature in Illinois.

Four Lakes Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located in Pecatonica, Illinois, United States. Situated at 10207 Fish Hatchery Road, this preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails. With its abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty, Four Lakes Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely walk, have a picnic by the water, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come and discover the beauty of Four Lakes Forest Preserve today!

Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located in Kewanee, Illinois, United States. This beautiful recreation area offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, with lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic trails for hiking and biking. The park is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy a day of relaxation and recreation. Whether you're looking to fish, camp, picnic, or simply take in the stunning surroundings, Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area is the ideal spot for a day of fun and adventure.

Rock Cut State Park is a sprawling outdoor oasis located in Caledonia, Illinois. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to explore over 3,000 acres of natural beauty, including stunning rock formations, tranquil lakes, and lush forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking. With miles of scenic trails and picturesque vistas, Rock Cut State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Come and experience the beauty of the great outdoors at this beloved Illinois park.

Loud Thunder Forest Preserve is a stunning natural park located at 19408 Loud Thunder Road in Illinois City, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction boasts acres of lush forests, scenic trails, and serene lakes, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife watching in this peaceful and picturesque setting. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor experience, Loud Thunder Forest Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Argyle Lake State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Colchester, Illinois. This picturesque park covers over 1,700 acres and is home to a beautiful 93-acre lake, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and camping. The park also features several scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an exciting adventure, Argyle Lake State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Rocky Bluff Trail is a picturesque park located on Tacoma Lake Road in Makanda, Illinois, United States. This beautiful trail offers stunning views of the surrounding nature, including rocky bluffs and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this tranquil setting. The park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Come explore the natural beauty of Rocky Bluff Trail and experience the peaceful serenity it has to offer.

Gander Mountain Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 43419 Wilmot Road in Antioch, Illinois, United States. This expansive preserve offers visitors a chance to explore lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. With its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife, Gander Mountain Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for a relaxing day outdoors.

Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 50 Airport Road in Elgin, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors a chance to explore lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat into nature or an exciting outdoor adventure, Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of the great outdoors at this stunning destination in Elgin.

Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 23202 West Renwick Road in Plainfield, Illinois, United States. The preserve is part of the Lily Cache Creek preservation system and covers approximately 839 acres of natural habitat. It includes a 200-acre lake with wetland habitat, providing a home to a variety of bird species such as great blue herons, great egrets, and cormorants. The preserve has three access points: Copley Nature Park, Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, and Turtle Lake Access. The Heron Rookery Nature Preserve features 1.45 miles of crushed limestone trail, perfect for hiking and running. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching with mounted scopes available for viewing.

Sun Lake Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 22925 West Grass Lake Road in Lake Villa, Illinois, United States. This stunning preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush forests, serene lakes, and winding trails to explore. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors, Sun Lake Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Duck Farm Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at Hwy 132 and Douglas Ln in Lake Villa, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, tranquil ponds, and diverse wildlife habitats. With scenic walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and picnic areas, Duck Farm Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Illinois.

McDonald Woods Forest Preserve is a stunning natural park located at 19611 West Grass Lake Road in Lake Villa, Illinois. This picturesque forest preserve is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, McDonald Woods is the perfect place for a relaxing hike or a leisurely stroll. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic, birdwatch, or simply unwind in the great outdoors, this beautiful preserve has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to explore the beauty of McDonald Woods Forest Preserve during your visit to Lake Villa, Illinois.