The Best Park nature exploration in Carbondale, Illinois

Parrish Park is a beautiful and scenic park located at 2500 West Sunset Drive in Carbondale, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing environment to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. With well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, Parrish Park is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and recreation. Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty of Southern Illinois or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Parrish Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cove Hollow Trailhead is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 236 Cove Hollow Road in Carbondale, Illinois, United States. Visitors can explore the scenic trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The trailhead is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Cove Hollow Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Dam West Recreation Campground is a serene retreat located at 15334 Lake Road in Carlyle, Illinois, United States. Situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, this campground offers a perfect escape for both city-dwellers and families. Just 50 miles east of St. Louis, Dam West Campground provides a peaceful small town atmosphere combined with the beauty of Illinois' largest man-made lake. With 109 campsites available, including both reservable and non-reservable options, visitors can enjoy modern amenities and easy access to a marina and boat storage facility. The adjacent Dam West Spillway and Dam West Day Use Area offer additional recreational opportunities, while the nearby Dam East facilities and McNair Group Area can be reached by walking or biking across the dam.

Marberry Arboretum, located at 1398 East Pleasant Hill Road in Carbondale, Illinois, is a stunning park that is part of the Southern Illinois University Carbondale Arboretum. This 1,200-acre campus landscape boasts over 5,200 living trees representing 155 species and 72 genera. Visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse and beautiful grounds through six tree identification tours designed to promote and protect the arboretum for future generations. The arboretum was officially established through ArbNet and is an Accredited Arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta. Southern Illinois University Carbondale is the first university in Illinois to receive Level II accreditation and has been recognized as a Tree Campus Higher Education by the Arbor Day Foundation since 2015.

Kayak/Canoe Landing is a serene park located in Carbondale, Illinois, United States. This beautiful waterfront destination offers the perfect spot for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts to launch their boats and explore the surrounding waterways. With easy access to the water and stunning views of the natural landscape, Kayak/Canoe Landing is the ideal place for outdoor adventurers to enjoy a day on the water. Whether you're looking to paddle leisurely along the river or embark on a more challenging adventure, this park provides a picturesque setting for all levels of experience. Come visit Kayak/Canoe Landing and experience the beauty of nature from the tranquility of the water.