Forest preserve trail hiking in 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.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction covering 891 acres of diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Acquired between 1938 and 2007, this preserve was previously a Boy Scout camp and now offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on its 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. Visitors can also enjoy camping at the primitive campsites, sledding on the 40-foot hill in winter, and geocaching with permits. The Plum Creek Nature Center on site provides nature education opportunities for all ages, with a natural playscape for outdoor learning experiences. With state-threatened or endangered plant and animal species, Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is a protected Illinois Nature Preserve dedicated to conserving its natural resources for future generations.

Habitat Africa! The Forest is a unique zoo located at 3300 Golf Road in Brookfield, Illinois, United States. This institution is dedicated to showcasing the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the African continent, with a focus on the lush and vibrant forests found there. Visitors can explore a variety of habitats that are home to a wide range of animals, including primates, big cats, birds, and more. Through educational exhibits and interactive experiences, Habitat Africa! The Forest aims to raise awareness about conservation and the importance of preserving these precious habitats for future generations.

Oak Forest Heritage Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Oak Forest, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, tranquil walking paths, and scenic views. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the area through interpretive signs and historical landmarks scattered throughout the park. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Oak Forest Heritage Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve Camping Pod is a campground located in Crete, Illinois, United States. This nature preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. The campground consists of 9 primitive campsites that can accommodate families, small groups, and large groups. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, with an accessible latrine and water fountain nearby. The preserve also features a 40-foot hill for sledding in the winter, and offers snowshoes for rental. The Plum Creek Nature Center provides nature education opportunities and a natural playscape for visitors. Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation support the conservation and recreation programs of the Forest Preserve District.

Plum Valley Preserve, located in Crete, Illinois, is a 491-acre park that is part of the Plum Creek preservation system. This preserve protects forest and wetland habitats, as well as a portion of Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant and wildlife species, including reptiles, birds, and unique plant species like lobed violet and fire pink. The preserve features a 1-mile crushed limestone segment of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, perfect for hiking and exploring. Additionally, Plum Valley Preserve has a 9-acre off-leash dog park with three enclosures, one of which is exclusively for small dogs. The Burville Road access area offers a picnic shelter for rental, ideal for gatherings of up to 60 people. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs at the preserve by following their Facebook page. Make a donation to support the Nature Foundation of Will County and help enhance the education, conservation, and recreation programs at Plum Valley Preserve.

Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve is a stunning natural park located in Eddyville, Illinois, United States. This picturesque destination is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The preserve features a variety of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views, Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

The Brunner Family Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 18N681 State Route 31 in Carpentersville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, serene meadows, and scenic trails. With its diverse wildlife, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty, the Brunner Family Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to hike, picnic, birdwatch, or simply relax in the great outdoors, this preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

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.

Deer Grove Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located on West Dundee Road in Palatine, Illinois, United States. This expansive preserve offers visitors the chance to explore lush forests, serene meadows, and scenic hiking trails. With its diverse wildlife, tranquil ponds, and beautiful landscapes, Deer Grove Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, this park provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Experience the beauty of Deer Grove Forest Preserve and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

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.

Hastings Lake Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 21155 West Gelden Road in Lake Villa, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors a chance to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. With its lush forests, tranquil lake, and picturesque surroundings, Hastings Lake Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for a relaxing day in the great outdoors.

Oakdale Nature Preserve, located at 4433 South Cranes Grove Road in Freeport, Illinois, is a beautiful 133-acre park that offers a variety of natural attractions. Just three miles south of Freeport on Baileyville Road, this park features forests, streams, and restored prairies for visitors to explore. New amenities at Oakdale Nature Preserve include a spacious picnic shelter, a nature-based playground, trail enhancements, and wayfinding signage. With over four miles of trails that wind through forests, tall grass prairies, and streams, there is plenty to do at Oakdale year-round. Visitors can hike, bike, jog, cross-country ski, snowshoe, picnic, photograph, bird watch, track animals, and identify plants.

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.

Deer Run Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5691 River Road in Cherry Valley, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature and explore the lush forests, tranquil meadows, and scenic trails that wind through the landscape. With opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking, Deer Run Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and experience the peace and tranquility of this stunning natural oasis.

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.

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.

Forest Park Nature Center is a hidden gem nestled at 5809 North Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights, Illinois. This institution is a unique blend of a park, store, and tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. With its lush forests, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, Forest Park Nature Center provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the center's interactive exhibits, shop for nature-inspired gifts at the store, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque surroundings. Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Forest Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for all ages.

Bohm Woods Nature Preserve is a hidden gem located in Edwardsville, Illinois. Owned by the State of Illinois and managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, this park is a true natural wonder. The Friends of Bohm Woods and HeartLands Conservancy provide stewardship assistance to help maintain this beautiful area. Visitors can enjoy a 2-mile loop trail through the old growth forest, which is one of only three remaining in the entire Metro East region. The towering hardwood trees, some hundreds of years old, create a unique canopy that supports a diverse community of plants and animals. Rare spring wildflowers and neotropical migrant songbirds can be spotted in this pristine environment.

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.

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.

Hoover Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 11285 West Fox Road in Yorkville, Illinois, United States. This preserve offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and picturesque views, Hoover Forest Preserve is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply soak in the natural beauty, this preserve has something for everyone. Come visit Hoover Forest Preserve and experience the tranquility and beauty of the great outdoors.

Pickerill-Pigott Forest Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 6350 Minkler Road in Yorkville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its lush forests, scenic trails, and serene atmosphere. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Pickerill-Pigott Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Illiniwek Forest Preserve Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Hampton, Illinois. Situated at 1201 State Avenue, this campground offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, the campground provides a serene setting for camping, lodging, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking in the beautiful park grounds. With spacious campsites and modern amenities, Illiniwek Forest Preserve Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in the United States.

The Rock Island County Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 13010 Niabi Zoo Road in Coal Valley, Illinois, United States. This peaceful and serene preserve offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, picnicking, bird-watching, and more. With its lush greenery, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife, the Rock Island County Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit and experience the beauty of nature at the Rock Island County Forest Preserve.

Russell Woods Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 11750 Illinois 72, Genoa, Illinois, United States. The Natural Resource Center at Russell Woods is currently closed for remodeling, but the park offers a variety of recreational and educational opportunities for visitors. The DeKalb County Forest Preserve District's mission is to preserve and protect the flora, fauna, and natural beauty of the land for the education and recreation of citizens. The forest preserves in the area serve as living museums, reflecting the past and offering serenity and beauty in the present.

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Lemont, Illinois, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque waterfalls, lush greenery, and winding trails, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a fun day out with family and friends, this beautiful park has something for everyone to enjoy.