TOP 30 Hiking and biking on forest trails in Illinois

Shawnee Forest Campground is a family-owned institution located in Vienna, Illinois, offering full hook-up camping in the beautiful Shawnee forest area. As a new campground, we are constantly growing and improving to provide the best experience for our guests. Situated on the outskirts of Vienna, Shawnee Forest Campground is the perfect gateway to the Shawnee Wine Trail and the Shawnee National Forest. Come and enjoy the wonders of nature at Shawnee Forest Campground in Southern Illinois.

Shawnee Trails Lodging and Suites is a charming institution located at 1308 South Broadway in Goreville, Illinois. This establishment offers lodging services in the heart of the beautiful Shawnee National Forest, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Shawnee Trails Lodging and Suites has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Our suites can accommodate up to 6 adults or larger families, featuring two bathrooms and full kitchens for added convenience. High-speed wireless internet is also included in all suites. Guests can easily access a variety of outdoor activities near the Shawnee National Forest, such as biking, hiking, rock climbing, boating, fishing, zip lining, and horseback riding. Additionally, the area is home to several wineries where visitors can enjoy great wines.

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.

St. James Farm Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2S541 Winfield Road in Warrenville, Illinois, United States. This expansive preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, scenic trails, and picturesque landscapes. With a variety of outdoor activities available, including hiking, biking, and picnicking, St. James Farm is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy the historic buildings and farmsteads on the property, adding a touch of charm and history to their visit. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an active adventure, St. James Farm Forest Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located on South Bend Road in Rockford, Illinois. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With scenic hiking trails, towering bluffs, and lush forests, Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled day, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve and experience the magic of the Illinois wilderness.

Trask Bridge Forest Preserve is a peaceful park located at 11532 Trask Bridge Road in Durand, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors a chance to explore nature and unwind in a serene environment. With lush greenery, winding trails, and a picturesque bridge, Trask Bridge Forest Preserve is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the scenery, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility of Trask Bridge Forest Preserve today!

Welcome to Parking 8 at South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve, your convenient and reliable parking solution in Chicago, Illinois. Nestled within the serene surroundings of the South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve, our parking facility offers easy access to the natural beauty and recreational activities this area is renowned for. Whether you're planning a leisurely day of hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying a picnic with family and friends, Parking 8 provides a safe and accessible spot to leave your vehicle. Located in the 60633 area, our parking lot is designed to accommodate a variety of vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all visitors. Enjoy peace of mind with our well-maintained and secure parking services, allowing you to focus on making the most of your time in the great outdoors. Visit us today and discover the perfect starting point for your adventure at South Wolf Lake Forest Preserve.

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.

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.

Located on Columbia Street in Joliet, Illinois, the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is a 52-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Acquired by the Des Plaines River preservation system between 1991 and 1997, this site was once home to an iron manufacturing facility in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Visitors can explore the preserved foundations of blast furnaces and other structures from the factory, as well as enjoy a 0.59-mile paved trail that provides a self-guided interpretive tour of the historical significance of the site. The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site also provides access to the 7.57-mile I&M Canal Trail, perfect for hiking and biking.

St. Louis Canyon Falls is a stunning natural attraction located on the Bluff Trail in Oglesby, Illinois, United States. This park offers visitors the chance to explore lush forests, rugged cliffs, and, of course, the breathtaking waterfall at the heart of the canyon. The serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape from city life, St. Louis Canyon Falls is a must-visit destination.

Hammel Woods - DuPage River Access is a beautiful campground, lodging, and park located at 23435 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, United States. The institution is part of the DuPage River preservation system, conserving over 1,500 acres of land. The 445-acre preserve includes forest and wetland habitats, providing a home for wildlife such as the long-tailed weasel and least weasel, as well as a variety of plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails at all three access areas, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and more. DuPage River Access also features a 10.8-acre off-leash dog park, primitive campsites for rental, and a canoe/kayak launch on the river.

Rock Run Preserve - Black Road Access is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Joliet, Illinois, United States. Covering 320 acres of land acquired between 1990 and 2009, this preserve is a haven for nature lovers. With diverse habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run, visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems and wildlife. The preserve is home to over 500 plant species and more than 100 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and botanists. Managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration, Rock Run Preserve is dedicated to protecting and enhancing its natural resources.

Lower Rock Run Preserve - McClintock Road Access is a 372-acre park located at 22827 West McClintock Road in Channahon, Illinois. This preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. Visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and plant species that call this preserve home, such as the northern water snake, eastern kingbird, leather flower, white water lily, and prairie phlox. The preserve has two access areas: I&M Canal Access and McClintock Road Access. I&M Canal Access provides access to the 11.24-mile Rock Run Greenway Trail and the 61.5-mile I&M Canal State Trail. McClintock Road Access features 0.63 miles of natural surface trail and a 7.5-acre off-leash dog park.

Hammel Woods - Route 59 Access is a beautiful park located in Shorewood, Illinois. Covering 445 acres, this preserve is part of the DuPage River preservation system, conserving over 1,500 acres of forest and wetland habitats. The park features three access areas: Crumby Recreation Area, DuPage River Access, and Route 59 Access. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails for hiking and biking, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail. Wildlife such as the long-tailed weasel and least weasel can be spotted in the area, along with a variety of plant species. DuPage River Access offers additional amenities such as an off-leash dog park, primitive campsites for rental, and shoreline fishing on the DuPage River. Route 59 Access also provides access to shoreline fishing and a canoe/kayak launch. Permits are available for geocaching throughout the preserve. Visitors can stay updated on news and upcoming programs by following the Hammel Woods Facebook page. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County can help support education, conservation, and recreation programs within the Forest Preserve District.

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.

Located in Joliet, Illinois, the Lower Rock Run Preserve - I&M Canal Access is a 372-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The preserve features diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run, providing a home for a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can explore the preserve through its interactive map, which includes access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the I&M Canal State Trail. The Rock Run Greenway Trail is a paved 11.24-mile trail ideal for hiking, biking, and running, while the I&M Canal State Trail offers 61.5 miles of crushed limestone for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Cross Pointe Park Outdoor Live Music Venue is the ultimate destination for a fun and exciting time in Hazel Crest, Illinois. Since its inception in 2020, this venue has been at the forefront of the live entertainment scene in Chicago. Located at 2801 West 167th Street, Cross Pointe Park offers a fantastic atmosphere and an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at Cross Pointe Park. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, the park boasts miles of scenic trails, stunning views, and an overall serene ambiance. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cross Pointe Park has something for everyone.

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.

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.

Rock River Rentals is a real estate and travel agency located at 4331 Illinois 2, Oregon, Illinois, United States. Perched high atop Castle Rock Bluffs, overlooking the Rock River, this beautiful rental home offers stunning views and a serene wooded setting surrounded by State Park and State Forest. The house features 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, dining room, laundry room, and a cozy living area with a fireplace and state-of-the-art entertainment center. With Starlink internet and WiFi, guests can enjoy speeds over 50Gbs. The property is within walking distance to hiking trails, hunting areas, and fishing spots on the Rock River. Many great restaurants, bike trails, and outdoor activities are nearby. Check-in days are available Sunday through Friday. Guests have praised the cleanliness, comfort, and spaciousness of the home, as well as the responsive and helpful host, Nick. Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat, a nature-filled adventure, or a peaceful place to gather with loved ones, Rock River Rentals offers the perfect getaway.

Big Sky Cabins, located at 1215 Rattlesnake Ferry Road in Alto Pass, Illinois, is a top-rated lodging option for big groups on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Our cabins offer stunning views and each one features a body of water nearby. The Cabin on the Creek boasts a screened-in porch and fire pit for cozy evenings. Situated just 10 minutes from the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and Shawnee National Forest, our cabins are also close to lakes for fishing, water skiing, boating, and swimming. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the long trails for biking, cycling, hiking, and rock climbing. Book your stay at Big Sky Cabins for a relaxing and adventurous getaway in Southern Illinois.

Hannah Beardsley Disc Golf Course is a premier disc golf school located on Oak Hollow Road in Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States. The institution offers top-notch facilities and instruction for players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. With a beautiful and challenging course set in a picturesque natural setting, students can improve their disc golf skills while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to learn the basics or fine-tune your technique, Hannah Beardsley Disc Golf Course is the perfect place to elevate your game.

Moraine Hills State Park is a picturesque park located at 1510 South River Road in McHenry, Illinois, United States. This stunning tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the park, which includes rolling hills, wetlands, and lakes. With over 2,000 acres of land to discover, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The park also offers opportunities for boating and kayaking on Lake Defiance. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an active outdoor adventure, Moraine Hills State Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome to Illiniwek MTB Trailhead, your premier destination for outdoor adventure in Hampton, Illinois! Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Hampton, our park offers an exhilarating experience for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to explore the thrill of mountain biking, Illiniwek MTB Trailhead provides the perfect setting with its diverse terrain and well-maintained trails. Our park features a variety of trails that wind through lush woodlands, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Each trail is thoughtfully designed to challenge and inspire, ensuring a memorable ride every time you visit. Beyond biking, Illiniwek MTB Trailhead is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation.

Welcome to Beaubien Woods Nestled in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, Beaubien Woods offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located on South Ellis Avenue, this beautiful park is a hidden gem for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil retreat in nature.