The 30 Best Outdoors and wildlife in Illinois

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.

Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 7402 Lake Katherine Drive in Palos Heights, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area through its well-maintained gardens and serene lake. With a variety of plant species, walking trails, and educational programs, Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or learn something new about the environment, this institution provides a peaceful and informative experience for all who visit.

Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area is a sprawling park located at County Road 2250 North in Danville, Illinois, United States. This institution is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the local wildlife and fish species. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and bird watching in this beautiful natural setting. The park also offers educational programs and events to promote awareness and appreciation of the environment. With its scenic views and diverse wildlife, Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Mill Creek Lake and Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Marshall, Illinois. Situated at 20482 N. Park Entrance Rd., this park offers visitors a serene and tranquil environment to enjoy nature at its finest. With its pristine lake, lush greenery, and well-maintained trails, Mill Creek Lake and Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you want to go fishing, hiking, bird watching, or simply relax by the water, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Mill Creek Lake and Park for yourself.

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.

Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is a peaceful park located in Matteson, Illinois, United States. This beautiful reserve is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and providing a serene escape for visitors. With its lush greenery, winding creek, and diverse wildlife, Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a scenic location for a leisurely hike, this reserve has something for everyone. Come explore and experience the tranquility of Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve.

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge, located at 1042 Butter Ridge Road in Ullin, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature. Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this refuge is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources for the benefit of present and future generations. Visitors to Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, hunting, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. The refuge is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including waterfowl, Indiana bats, prothonotary warblers, and bald cypress trees. Canoeing through the waterways is a popular way to explore the swamps and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area is a picturesque park located at 85 Glen Jones Road in Equality, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a peaceful and natural setting for visitors to enjoy outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and birdwatching. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species and provides a great opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding environment. With its scenic trails and tranquil atmosphere, Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in McLeansboro, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. With its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife, Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the hiking trails, this institution provides a tranquil and serene setting for all to enjoy.

Horseshoe Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area-West Campground is a tranquil and picturesque campground located in Miller City, Illinois. Situated on the shores of Horseshoe Lake, this campground offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The campground features spacious campsites with stunning views of the lake, perfect for RVs, tents, and trailers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and birdwatching. The surrounding area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the great outdoors, Horseshoe Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area-West Campground is the perfect destination for a memorable camping experience.

Dark Night Outdoors LLC is a premier outdoor store located in Milan, Illinois. We specialize in providing high-quality outdoor gear and equipment for all your adventurous needs. Whether you are a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting out, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect gear for your next outdoor adventure. From camping and hiking to fishing and hunting, we have everything you need to make the most of your time in the great outdoors. Visit us at 11618 6th Street and let Dark Night Outdoors LLC be your go-to destination for all things outdoor.

Oak Leaf Outdoors is a premier outdoor store located in Brimfield, Illinois. Situated at 10216 West Civil Defense Road, this institution offers a wide range of high-quality outdoor gear and equipment for all your adventure needs. Whether you're an avid hiker, camper, or just love spending time in nature, Oak Leaf Outdoors has everything you need to gear up and get outside. From top-of-the-line hiking boots and camping equipment to backpacks, tents, and outdoor clothing, this store has it all. Visit Oak Leaf Outdoors today and start planning your next outdoor adventure!

Outrageous Outdoors is a premier store located at 902 South State Street in Jerseyville, Illinois, United States. We offer a wide range of outdoor gear and equipment for all your outdoor adventures. From camping and hiking gear to fishing and hunting supplies, we have everything you need to make the most of your time in the great outdoors. Our knowledgeable staff are passionate about outdoor activities and are here to help you find the perfect gear for your next adventure. Visit Outrageous Outdoors today and gear up for your next outdoor excursion!

S and J Outdoors Sales is a premier outdoor store located at 9917 Iola Lane in Louisville, Illinois. Offering a wide range of outdoor gear and equipment, this institution is a one-stop shop for all your outdoor needs. From camping and hiking gear to fishing and hunting supplies, S and J Outdoors Sales has everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. With a knowledgeable and friendly staff ready to assist you, shopping at this store is a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Visit S and J Outdoors Sales today and gear up for your next outdoor adventure!

Presleys Outdoors is a premier outdoor store located at 1510 West Garfield Avenue in Bartonville, Illinois. With a wide selection of gear and equipment for hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities, Presleys Outdoors is a one-stop shop for all your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or just starting out, our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the right gear for your next outdoor excursion. Visit us today and explore our extensive inventory of top-quality products from leading brands.

Carl and Myrna Nygren Wetland Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3714 West Rockton Road in Rockton, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve, owned and managed by the Natural Land Institute, features restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands along Raccoon Creek and the Rock and Pecatonica rivers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers like wild bergamot and sunflowers, as well as observe a variety of wildlife species, including migrating waterfowl and songbirds. The preserve is open to the public daily, with entrances at both 3190 W. Rockton Rd. for private events and 3714 W. Rockton Rd. for general admission. Visitors can explore the Dianne Nora Nature Trail, a 2.5 mile path around the wetland that offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, jogging, and cross-country skiing. The trail is free to access and open from sunrise to sunset, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in nature.

The Wildlife Prairie Park Visitors Center is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 3826 North Taylor Road in Hanna City, Illinois, United States. This center serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Wildlife Prairie Park, offering visitors a chance to learn about and connect with the diverse wildlife and natural habitats found within the park. The center provides information, maps, and guided tours to help visitors make the most of their experience at this beautiful destination. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, animal lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape into the great outdoors, the Wildlife Prairie Park Visitors Center is the perfect starting point for your adventure.

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.

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.

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.

The Augustus Chetlain Home and Log Cabin Guest Houses offer a charming and historic lodging experience in Galena, Illinois. Located at 11661 West Chetlain Lane, this institution provides guests with the opportunity to stay in beautifully restored log cabins and the historic Augustus Chetlain Home. Surrounded by nature and tranquility, guests can relax and unwind in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Augustus Chetlain Home and Log Cabin Guest Houses provide a unique and memorable stay in the heart of Galena.

Hickory Grove Campground and RV Park is a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Sheffield, Illinois, United States. Situated at 7478 1745 North Avenue, this picturesque institution offers a perfect blend of camping, lodging, and park activities for visitors of all ages. With spacious RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent camping options, guests can enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by nature. The park features lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and a variety of recreational amenities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax by the campfire, explore the nearby attractions, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Hickory Grove Campground and RV Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Wildlife Prairie Park, located at 3826 N Taylor Road, Hanna City, Illinois, is a campground, lodging, park, and zoo all in one. This 1,800-acre zoological park is home to 60 different species and over 180 animals native to the area, including wolves, bison, black bears, elk, otters, and more. Visitors can enjoy natural landscapes, wildlife viewing, and various activities throughout the year. The park also offers event spaces for weddings, parties, corporate events, and retreats. Annual membership options are available, including the new VIA (Very Important Angler) Membership. Volunteer opportunities are also offered for those who want to help care for the animals and clean up the park. Wildlife Prairie Park is a top destination in Illinois and a must-visit for all ages.

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.

Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 24621 North River Road in Wilmington, Illinois, United States. This beautiful area offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy nature and wildlife in a peaceful setting. With its scenic views, hiking trails, and fishing spots, Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a birdwatcher, angler, or simply looking to relax in nature, this institution has something for everyone to enjoy.

Law Outdoor Range & Gun Co is a premier store located at 25782 Oakford Road in Chandlerville, Illinois. We offer a wide selection of outdoor gear and firearms for all of your hunting and shooting needs. Our knowledgeable staff is here to assist you in finding the perfect equipment for your next outdoor adventure. Visit us today and experience the top-notch service and quality products that set us apart from the rest.

Southern Illinois Outdoors is a premier outdoor store located at 1415 Salem Road in Mount Vernon, Illinois. We offer a wide range of outdoor gear and equipment for all your outdoor adventures, whether you enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, or just exploring the great outdoors. Our knowledgeable staff are passionate about the outdoors and are ready to help you find the perfect gear for your next outdoor excursion. Visit us today and gear up for your next outdoor adventure!

Gun Creek Fin, Fur and Feathers Sportsmens Club is a premier lodging destination located at 17631 Illinois 37 in Whittington, Illinois, United States. This exclusive club offers a luxurious retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, providing top-notch accommodations and amenities for those who enjoy hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Nestled in the heart of nature, guests can relax and unwind in a tranquil setting while experiencing the thrill of the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Gun Creek Fin, Fur and Feathers Sportsmens Club is the perfect destination for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Tom's Wildlife Art and Taxidermy is a school located at 1902 Havenhill Drive in Plainfield, Illinois. With a dedication to perfection, your trophy will be treated with the utmost care and attention to detail, as if it were our own. Join us to learn the art of taxidermy and wildlife preservation from experienced professionals.

Cabin Fever Campground and Hunt Club is a picturesque institution located at 1771 Coal Road in Victoria, Illinois. Just a short distance from Snake Den Hollow, our campground offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Conveniently situated only 20 minutes from Galesburg, 35 minutes from Kewanee, and 50 minutes from Peoria and the Quad Cities, our location is ideal for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Established in 2003, Cabin Fever boasts 5 lakes and expansive hunting grounds, perfect for those who love to fish and hunt. Our trailer camping sites offer water and electrical hookups, with pull-thru sites available for added convenience. Seasonal sites with full hookups are also an option for those looking to make Cabin Fever their home away from home.