TOP 30 Natural area explorations in Illinois

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Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve, located at 1701 Morman Road in Amboy, Illinois, is a park and tourist attraction that was purchased by the Illinois Audubon Society in 2012. This 302-acre wetland complex is a rare and fragile portion of the Green River Lowlands section of the Grand Prairie Division. The preserve features black oak sand savannas, sedge meadows, and dry sand prairie, providing diverse habitats for native flora and fauna. The watery nature of Amboy Marsh makes it a unique and important environment, with springs, seeps, marshes, and wetlands supporting a variety of wildlife, including amphibians that rely on fishless ponds for breeding. Visitors to the preserve can enjoy birdwatching and may spot a variety of bird species, as documented in the Avian Breeding Community report for 2019.

Franklin Creek State Natural Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1872 Twist Road in Franklin Grove, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the serene beauty of the Illinois landscape. With its lush greenery, flowing creek, and scenic trails, Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply unwind in nature, this park is sure to provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for all who visit.

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.

White Rock Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 6438 Bluff Road in Valmeyer, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The tranquil setting of White Rock Nature Preserve provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, White Rock Nature Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

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.

Pomona Natural Bridge is a captivating tourist attraction located in Pomona, Illinois, United States, along Natural Bridge Road. This stunning natural wonder is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The bridge is a magnificent limestone formation that spans a creek, creating a picturesque and serene setting for visitors to explore and enjoy. Whether you're looking to marvel at the beauty of the natural world or simply unwind in a peaceful environment, Pomona Natural Bridge offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

The Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center is a charming institution located at 330 North Main Street in Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States. This nature center is nestled within a beautiful park and is a popular tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and families. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area, participate in educational programs, and enjoy various outdoor activities. The center offers a unique opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. With its scenic surroundings and engaging exhibits, the Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature.

Prairie Grass Nature Museum, located within the Round Lake Area Park District in Round Lake, Illinois, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and families alike. This unique museum showcases the beauty and diversity of the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore the wonders of the prairie grasslands and learn about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. With its picturesque location at 860 Hart Road, the Prairie Grass Nature Museum offers a memorable and enriching experience for all ages.

Nature Play Garden is a charming and enchanting park located in Highland Park, Illinois, United States. This unique tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers of all ages, offering a serene and peaceful environment where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With lush greenery, winding paths, and a variety of interactive play areas, Nature Play Garden provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore and discover, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the magic of Nature Play Garden today!

The Hampton Inn Ottawa (Starved Rock Area) is a comfortable and convenient lodging option located at 4115 Holiday Lane in Ottawa, Illinois, United States. Situated near the beautiful Starved Rock State Park, this hotel offers a relaxing retreat for guests looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. The hotel features modern amenities, spacious rooms, and friendly staff to ensure a pleasant stay for all guests. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, the Hampton Inn Ottawa is the perfect choice for your accommodation needs.

Pleasant Valley Conservation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 13119 Pleasant Valley Road in Woodstock, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with scenic hiking trails, lush greenery, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Pleasant Valley Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Comfort Inn Ottawa Starved Rock Area is a cozy and convenient lodging option located at 120 West Stevenson Road in Ottawa, Illinois, United States. Just a short drive away from the breathtaking Starved Rock State Park, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and top-notch amenities for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, relax in the indoor pool, and stay connected with free Wi-Fi. With friendly staff and a prime location, Comfort Inn Ottawa Starved Rock Area is the perfect choice for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in Ottawa.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ottawa Starved Rock Area is a cozy and modern lodging establishment located at 3000 Fairfield Lane in Ottawa, Illinois, United States. Situated near the picturesque Starved Rock State Park, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and top-notch amenities for both leisure and business travelers. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms and suites, complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're exploring the nearby natural attractions or attending a conference in town, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ottawa Starved Rock Area provides a convenient and welcoming stay for all visitors.

Baldwin Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area is a scenic park and wildlife area located in Baldwin, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a beautiful natural setting where visitors can explore and observe a variety of wildlife species in their natural habitat. The park also features a lake where visitors can enjoy fishing and boating activities. With its diverse ecosystem and peaceful surroundings, Baldwin Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hawthorne Hill Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 28 Brookside Drive in Elgin, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area through its well-maintained trails, scenic overlooks, and educational programs. With a variety of flora and fauna to discover, Hawthorne Hill Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike, a relaxing picnic, or a fun family outing, this institution has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the wonders of nature at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center today!

Stillman Nature Center is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of South Barrington, Illinois. Located at 33 West Penny Road, this park and tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the diverse ecosystems of the area. With winding trails, serene ponds, and educational exhibits, Stillman Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in the beauty of the outdoors, this institution provides a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 2901 Park Avenue in Westchester, Illinois, United States. This park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve boasts a diverse range of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species that call this beautiful prairie home. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics surrounded by the serene beauty of the preserve. Come experience the tranquility and natural wonder of Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve.

Nature's Way Getaway is a real estate and travel agency located at 80 Eagle Claw Point in Goreville, Illinois, United States. We offer unique accommodations such as log cabins with lake views at Lake of Egypt in southern Illinois. Our properties include cozy lofts and treehouses, providing a comfortable and peaceful retreat for guests. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at the lake, including fishing, tubing, and star-gazing. We also offer access to boat docks and opportunities to rent pontoons for lake excursions. Located in the Shawnee National Forest, our properties are surrounded by nature and offer easy access to hiking trails and cave explorations.

Volo Bog State Natural Area is a unique and breathtaking park located in Ingleside, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore a pristine and ancient bog ecosystem, complete with floating sphagnum moss islands and rare plant species. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the boardwalks that wind through the bog, taking in the peaceful surroundings and learning about the area's geological and ecological significance. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to delve deeper into the fascinating history of this natural wonder.

Mississippi Palisades - National Natural Landmark is a breathtaking natural area located in Savanna, Illinois, United States. This stunning landmark features towering limestone bluffs, lush forests, and scenic overlooks that provide visitors with stunning views of the Mississippi River. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, and birdwatching, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its unique geology and diverse flora and fauna, Mississippi Palisades - National Natural Landmark is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the American Midwest.

Devil’s Standtable Nature Trail is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Makanda, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore scenic hiking trails, lush forests, and stunning rock formations. The trail provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Illinois landscape. Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Devil’s Standtable Nature Trail is the perfect destination to connect with the great outdoors.

The Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 21950 Riverwoods Road in Riverwoods, Illinois, United States. This conservation area offers visitors a peaceful and scenic escape into nature, with lush forests, winding trails, and a tranquil river running through the grounds. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and more in this pristine natural oasis. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an outdoor adventure, the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Ryerson Conservation Area Welcome Center is a nature preserve located at 21950 Riverwoods Road in Deerfield, Illinois. This park offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife. The Welcome Center serves as a hub for information on the park's history, conservation efforts, and upcoming events. Visitors can also find educational exhibits, interactive displays, and guided tours to enhance their experience. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or learn more about local ecology, the Ryerson Conservation Area Welcome Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Natural Land Institute is a non-profit organization located at 3190 West Rockton Road in Rockton, Illinois, United States. The institute is dedicated to preserving and protecting natural areas and wildlife habitats in the region. Through conservation efforts, land stewardship, and community education, the Natural Land Institute works to ensure that these valuable ecosystems remain intact for future generations to enjoy. Visitors can learn about the importance of biodiversity and explore the beautiful landscapes that the institute helps to maintain.

Winston Tunnel State Natural Area is a picturesque park located at 2102-3206 South Rocky Hill Road in Galena, Illinois, United States. The park is home to the historic Winston Tunnel, which was once used by trains passing through the area. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic views. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Winston Tunnel State Natural Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Big Slough Recreation Area is a picturesque outdoor destination located at 5999 Riverview Road in Thomson, Illinois, United States. This expansive recreational area offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. The natural beauty of the area, with its lush greenery and serene waterways, provides the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Big Slough Recreation Area is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Buda, Illinois, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with various outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or embark on an adventure, Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Green River State Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Illinois, United States. This area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Visitors can explore the lush greenery and serene surroundings while observing a diverse range of plant and animal species in their natural habitat. The Green River State Wildlife Management Area is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Sandy Ford State Nature Area is a picturesque park located at 1399 North 18th Road in Streator, Illinois, United States. This tranquil natural area offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views, Sandy Ford State Nature Area is the perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and simply enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to unwind with a leisurely stroll or explore the diverse flora and fauna of Illinois, this park has something for everyone. Visit Sandy Ford State Nature Area and immerse yourself in the peaceful serenity of nature.