The 30 Best Ecotourism in Illinois

Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Tinley Park, Illinois, United States. This serene and tranquil sanctuary offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its lush meadows, winding waterways, and diverse wildlife, Bobolink Meadow is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

REI is a premier outdoor retailer located at 888 Willow Road in Northbrook, Illinois. This institution offers a wide range of products for outdoor enthusiasts, including bicycles, clothing, shoes, and gear for all types of outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for the latest in cycling technology, comfortable and durable outdoor apparel, or high-quality footwear for your next adventure, REI has you covered. With a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction, REI is the go-to destination for all your outdoor needs.

Terrapin Park is a charming tourist attraction located at 350 West Street in Elizabeth, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and a variety of recreational activities, Terrapin Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely picnic with family and friends or simply take a relaxing stroll through nature, Terrapin Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Elizabeth, Illinois.

Highland Park in Rockford, Illinois, United States is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction. With its lush greenery, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere, Highland Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities in this beautiful park. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the natural beauty of the area, Highland Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Luthy Botanical Garden is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2520 North Prospect Road in Peoria, Illinois, United States. This beautiful garden features a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world, making it a peaceful and educational destination for visitors of all ages. With well-maintained walking paths, serene ponds, and colorful displays, Luthy Botanical Garden offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil spot to unwind, this botanical garden is sure to impress with its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

The Peck Butterfly House is a charming tourist attraction located at 4038 Kaneville Road in Geneva, Illinois, United States. This enchanting institution is home to a variety of beautiful butterflies from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families alike. Explore the lush gardens and observe these delicate creatures up close as they flutter and feed on nectar-rich flowers. With its serene atmosphere and educational programs, the Peck Butterfly House offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Tall Grass Park is a picturesque park located at 3512 Grassmere Road in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with sprawling green spaces, towering trees, and vibrant wildflowers. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities in this beautiful natural setting. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and explore, Tall Grass Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Hammel Woods Recreation Area, located at 23601 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, is a 445-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the DuPage River preservation system. The preserve features forest and wetland habitats, and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are opportunities for shoreline fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the DuPage River. The park also offers a dog park, primitive campsites, and geocaching permits. With three access areas, Hammel Woods is a great destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration in the Joliet area.

Heritage Prairie Farm is a charming agricultural institution located at 2N308 Brundige Road in Elburn, Illinois, United States. This picturesque farm offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors to learn about sustainable farming practices, organic gardening, and the importance of supporting local agriculture. With a focus on environmental conservation and community engagement, Heritage Prairie Farm is dedicated to providing educational programs, farm-to-table dining experiences, and events that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're interested in picking fresh produce, attending a workshop, or simply enjoying the serene countryside setting, Heritage Prairie Farm is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about sustainable living and connecting with nature.

Hart's Woods Park, located within the Round Lake Area Park District in Round Lake, Illinois, is a serene and picturesque park offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Situated at 814 Hart Road, this park features lush greenery, walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for sports and relaxation. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or engage in some friendly competition on the sports fields, Hart's Woods Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, this park provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Theodore Marsh, located on Fox Meadow Drive in Crest Hill, Illinois, is a 292-acre park and tourist attraction with a variety of habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant species and is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking at the preserve, which also provides access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the Joliet Junction Trail. The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental and permits for geocaching. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs by following the Theodore Marsh Facebook page. Plan your adventure at this beautiful natural area using the interactive map provided on the website.

Springbrook Prairie is a sprawling natural oasis located in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its picturesque landscapes and abundance of wildlife. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, observe various species of birds and animals, and enjoy the serene beauty of the prairie ecosystem. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, Springbrook Prairie is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Libertyville Township Open Space District - Butterfield Road is a beautiful park located in Libertyville, Illinois, United States. This serene and picturesque open space offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and engage in outdoor activities. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and scenic views, this park is the perfect destination for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or a peaceful moment of reflection. Whether you're looking to connect with nature, exercise, or simply unwind, Libertyville Township Open Space District - Butterfield Road is a wonderful place to visit.

Janura Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 6701 East Avenue in Berwyn, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, have a leisurely stroll, or have a fun day out with family and friends, Janura Park is the perfect destination. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this charming park in the heart of Berwyn.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge - Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 7071 Riverview Road in Thomson, Illinois, United States. This refuge has been a sanctuary for fish, wildlife, and people since 1924, stretching 261 river miles along the Mississippi River floodplain. With over 240,000 acres of protected land, the refuge is a popular destination for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational activities, attracting over 3.7 million visitors annually. The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center provides valuable information and resources for visitors, including pool maps outlining areas for hunting, fishing, and recreation. The center also offers opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, from the summer sounds of frogs to the fall migration of birds.

Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 870 South Pilot Knob Road in Galena, Illinois, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and access to the Mississippi River. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to relax or an adventure in the great outdoors, Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve has something for everyone.

Byron Forest Preserve District is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 7993 North River Road in Byron, Illinois, United States. This picturesque destination offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush greenery, scenic trails, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities to enjoy. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings, Byron Forest Preserve District is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Howard Colman Hall Creek Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 12749 North Weldon Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature at its finest, with walking trails, scenic views, and abundant wildlife. The preserve is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing escape, Howard Colman Hall Creek Preserve is a must-visit destination in Rockford.

Andresen Nature Center is a charming tourist attraction located at 409 North 4th Street in Fulton, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna of the area. With interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and educational programs, Andresen Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world at Andresen Nature Center.

Kishwaukee Gorge North Forest Preserve is a stunning natural park and tourist attraction located at 4643 Blackhawk Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This picturesque preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, winding trails, and the breathtaking Kishwaukee River Gorge. With its diverse wildlife, tranquil atmosphere, and scenic views, Kishwaukee Gorge North Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary, located in Oglesby, Illinois, United States, is a 45-acre island across from Starved Rock State Park in the Illinois River. This park and tourist attraction was acquired by the Society in March 2004 to protect it from residential and commercial development. Thanks to a generous grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the three-year struggle to save the island was successful. Bald eagles use Plum Island as a wintering site, perching in the trees and flying over the river to feed at the nearby lock and dam. The Society's goal is to not only protect the island for the eagles but also to preserve the scenic view from atop Starved Rock and to safeguard the Native American archaeological sites on the island. Reforestation efforts are ongoing, and the island will be closed to visitors except for stewardship activities. Volunteers have donated many hours to help plant trees and maintain the sanctuary.

Blackthorn Hill Nature Preserve is a park and tourist attraction located at County Highway 4 in Galesburg, Illinois, United States. The preserve, also known as Western Illinois Nature Group, was established to preserve a forested property in west central Illinois for the enjoyment of future generations. The institution seeks financial support from the community and organizations to maintain the wooded area. The property is closed to the public during Spring Turkey hunting season and Fall Deer hunting through IRAP. Guided hikes and events are organized throughout the year, such as a Wildflower Identification Hike and quarterly board meetings. Membership renewal and donations can be made online or by mail. Birdies for Charity donations are welcomed to support the preserve. Trails are closed during October and December for hunting. Visitors are reminded to be respectful of hunters on the property and follow safety guidelines. Bequests to Western Illinois Nature Group are encouraged to support the preservation of Blackthorn Hill for future generations. Please note that water is shut off during winter and will be turned on in the spring.

Tawny Oaks Visitor Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 715 West Singing Woods Road in Edelstein, Illinois, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, learn about the local wildlife, and enjoy educational exhibits and interactive displays. The center offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the wonders of the outdoors. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Tawny Oaks Visitor Center is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

The H & B Bremer Wildlife Sanctuary is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 194 Bremer Lane in Butler, Illinois, United States. This sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with a focus on wildlife conservation and education. With its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and diverse range of flora and fauna, the H & B Bremer Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the wonders of this sanctuary, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll, birdwatch, or simply relax and unwind in the beauty of nature.

Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Piney Creek Road in Ava, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, towering bluffs, and a serene creek running through the landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and scenic setting. Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, located at 8588 Illinois 148 in Marion, Illinois, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park and tourist attraction offers a variety of activities such as hiking, canoeing, hunting, camping, picnicking, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. The visitor center makes it convenient for guests to pay entrance fees, purchase annual vessel passes, and reserve campsites through recreation.gov. National wildlife refuges, like Crab Orchard, provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing visitors to reconnect with the natural world. With over 4 minutes of total eclipse viewing time, the refuge will be an ideal location for viewing the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Those planning to attend this event can find helpful eclipse tips on the website.

Little Grassy Camp is a serene retreat located at 1 Methodist Camp Road in Makanda, Illinois, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this camp offers a peaceful and rejuvenating environment for individuals and groups seeking a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a variety of accommodations, recreational activities, and beautiful surroundings, Little Grassy Camp is the perfect destination for relaxation, reflection, and connection with nature. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape or an adventurous outdoor experience, this camp has something for everyone. Visit our homepage to learn more about our facilities, programs, and upcoming events.

Giant City Nature Trail is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Cobden, Illinois, United States. This stunning natural area features a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, towering rock formations, and serene creeks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape while taking in the sights and sounds of the local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a more challenging hike, Giant City Nature Trail offers something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Rend Lake Fish & Wildlife is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 10885 East Jefferson Place in Bonnie, Illinois, United States. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while engaging in various outdoor activities such as fishing, bird watching, and hiking. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. With its tranquil surroundings and abundance of recreational opportunities, Rend Lake Fish & Wildlife is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Panther Den Wilderness is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Makanda, Illinois, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty of the wilderness and experience the serenity of the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, tranquil streams, and diverse wildlife, Panther Den Wilderness is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax and unwind in nature, this institution provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Panther Den Wilderness and create memories that will last a lifetime.