TOP 10 Outdoor exploration in Wood River, Illinois

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.

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center is a park located at 25055 South Walnut Lane in Channahon, Illinois. It is a facility that is inclusive and accessible to all visitors, regardless of ability level. The center offers dynamic educational programs, recreational opportunities, and community engagement activities. The visitor center has received accreditation from the National Inclusion Project, making it a model of inclusive practices for individuals with disabilities. The center features nature exhibits, a 2,000-gallon fish tank, and outdoor attractions like bird feeders and bird baths. Surrounding the center is the McKinley Woods preserve, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic trails. Visitors can enjoy activities such as walking, biking, and paddling while exploring the natural beauty of the area. The center also offers rental spaces for weddings, meetings, and other events. With specially-designed programs and inclusion-trained staff, Four Rivers ensures that guests with special needs have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation support the conservation and educational efforts of the Forest Preserve District.

McKinley Woods, located at 26932 River Bluff Drive in Channahon, Illinois, is a 531-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities and educational opportunities. The preserve features two access areas, Frederick's Grove and Kerry Sheridan Grove, both located in Channahon. McKinley Woods is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system, conserving over 2,400 acres of diverse habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of the Des Plaines River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fishing at the preserve.

McKinley Woods - Kerry Sheridan Grove is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 25055 South Walnut Lane in Channahon, Illinois. This 531-acre preserve is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system, offering diverse habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of the Des Plaines River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, birdwatching, fishing, and more at this stunning natural area. Frederick's Grove and Kerry Sheridan Grove are two access areas within McKinley Woods, each offering unique trails and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature education.

High Knob Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled within the stunning Shawnee National Forest in Equality, Illinois. Spread over 50 acres, our campground offers 165 campsites, including both permanent and tourist sites equipped with water and electricity. Open year-round, we cater to mule and horse riders, with the unique feature of the River to River trail running through the center of camp. Surrounded by forest on three sides, High Knob Campground is the gateway to seven separate trails leading into the Shawnee National Forest. Within a short horseback ride, guests can explore 100ft tall rock bluffs. For outdoor enthusiasts, the High Knob area offers the best in trail riding, hiking, and hunting, with nearby attractions such as Garden of the Gods wilderness area.

Kids' Corner is a vibrant and nurturing institution located at 101 East Edwardsville Road in Wood River, Illinois. Our mission is to provide a safe and engaging environment for children to learn, play, and grow. With a team of dedicated and experienced educators, we offer a variety of programs and activities designed to promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. From interactive games and creative arts to educational workshops and outdoor adventures, Kids' Corner is the perfect place for children to explore their interests and build lasting friendships. Come visit us today and discover the endless possibilities that await your child at Kids' Corner.

The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo, located at 2197 North Stockton Drive in Chicago, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction that offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. This zoo focuses on teaching about the interdependency of living things through expert animal care, hands-on learning elements, and tactile experiences. Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of North American animals, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. Please note that animals may not be visible at all times, as they are given the choice to spend time in areas that are out of public view to promote positive animal welfare.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area Located at 1700 East, Illinois 60958, Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area offers a serene escape into nature, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. As a treasured park and tourist attraction, it provides a sanctuary for a diverse range of resident and migratory wildlife within its riverine wetlands and oak savanna ecosystems.