TOP 30 Best Parks and recreation in Forest Park, Illinois

Camp Shabbona Woods is a picturesque campground, lodging, and park located at 15810 Torrence Avenue in South Holland, Illinois, United States. Nestled in a serene natural setting, this institution offers a variety of outdoor activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax in a cozy cabin, pitch a tent under the stars, or simply explore the scenic trails and recreational areas, Camp Shabbona Woods has something for everyone. With its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location, it's the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a family vacation in the great outdoors.

The Monee Reservoir Visitor Center, located at 27341 Ridgeland Avenue in Monee, Illinois, offers a variety of educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. From April to October, the center is open from 6 a.m. until sunset, and from November to March, it is open from 8 a.m. until sunset. Visitors can enjoy activities such as renting pedalboats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, fishing poles, and more. The 46-acre lake provides a beautiful setting for exploring the water in a peaceful environment. The center also offers informational resources, such as the Compass newsletter and Get Going programs, as well as opportunities to support the Forest Preserve District through donations. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner looking to relax on the water, the Monee Reservoir Visitor Center has something for everyone to enjoy.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve Camping Pod is a campground located in Crete, Illinois, United States. This nature preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. The campground consists of 9 primitive campsites that can accommodate families, small groups, and large groups. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, with an accessible latrine and water fountain nearby. The preserve also features a 40-foot hill for sledding in the winter, and offers snowshoes for rental. The Plum Creek Nature Center provides nature education opportunities and a natural playscape for visitors. Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation support the conservation and recreation programs of the Forest Preserve District.

Plum Valley Preserve, located in Crete, Illinois, is a 491-acre park that is part of the Plum Creek preservation system. This preserve protects forest and wetland habitats, as well as a portion of Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant and wildlife species, including reptiles, birds, and unique plant species like lobed violet and fire pink. The preserve features a 1-mile crushed limestone segment of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, perfect for hiking and exploring. Additionally, Plum Valley Preserve has a 9-acre off-leash dog park with three enclosures, one of which is exclusively for small dogs. The Burville Road access area offers a picnic shelter for rental, ideal for gatherings of up to 60 people. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs at the preserve by following their Facebook page. Make a donation to support the Nature Foundation of Will County and help enhance the education, conservation, and recreation programs at Plum Valley Preserve.

Pine Ridge Campground is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Junction, Illinois, United States. Offering a blend of camping, lodging, and recreational activities, this institution is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated amidst towering pine trees and lush greenery, guests can enjoy a peaceful getaway surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors. With spacious campsites, cozy cabins, and modern amenities, Pine Ridge Campground provides a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking a relaxing weekend escape or a fun-filled family vacation, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Pine Ridge Campground for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Mermet Lake State Conservation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Belknap, Illinois, United States. This beautiful conservation area offers visitors a tranquil escape into nature, with stunning lake views, lush forests, and abundant wildlife to observe. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, Mermet Lake State Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Camp Ondessonk is a picturesque campground and lodging facility nestled in the heart of Ozark, Illinois. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this park offers a peaceful retreat for individuals and families looking to reconnect with nature. The facilities at Camp Ondessonk include cozy cabins, tent camping sites, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking trails, swimming, and fishing. Whether you're seeking a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun-filled outdoor adventure, Camp Ondessonk provides the perfect setting for a memorable experience in the great outdoors.

Sage Explorers LLC is a unique store located at 644 North Bank Lane in Lake Forest, Illinois, United States. Our store offers a wide range of products for those who love to explore the world around them. From outdoor gear and equipment to travel accessories and educational resources, Sage Explorers LLC is your one-stop shop for all your exploration needs. Come visit us and let us help you embark on your next adventure!

Flooring Exhibits is a premier store located at 7660 Industrial Drive in Forest Park, Illinois, United States. We specialize in showcasing a wide range of high-quality flooring options for residential and commercial spaces. Our extensive exhibits feature a variety of flooring materials such as hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, and carpet, allowing customers to explore and select the perfect flooring solution for their needs. With expert guidance from our knowledgeable staff, customers can find the ideal flooring products to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of their space. Visit Flooring Exhibits today to discover the perfect flooring for your home or business.

Severson Dells Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 8786 Montague Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This nature center is a perfect destination for nature lovers, offering a peaceful and serene environment to explore and connect with the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails, Severson Dells Nature Center provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in a natural setting, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Severson Dells Nature Center and experience the wonders of the natural world firsthand.

Located in Hampton, Illinois, the US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Fishermans Corner offers stunning views of the mighty Mississippi River. With 51 reservable campsites, including both electric hookups and tent-only sites, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as water sports, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground provides modern amenities like drinking water, shower houses, and flush toilets while still allowing guests to experience the beauty of the great outdoors. Eagle watching is a popular activity during the winter months, with the campground offering a prime view of the small aquatic marsh near Locks and Dam 14. Visitors can witness a variety of wildlife species, from turtles basking in the sun to numerous bird species hunting for food in the shallow waters. The scenery at Fishermans Corner is always spectacular, whether it's the lush greenery in the spring or the vibrant colors of fall.

Stones Landing is a picturesque park located at 7930 Shore Drive in Machesney Park, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a stunning waterfront view and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With walking paths, picnic areas, and recreational facilities, Stones Landing is the perfect place for outdoor activities and family outings. Whether you're looking to unwind by the water or explore the scenic surroundings, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

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.

The Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, located at 1111 East Schaumburg Road in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a museum, park, and tourist attraction all in one. This 135-acre refuge features fields, forests, marshes, and streams, offering over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails for visitors to explore. The Nature Center provides educational displays and information on natural history, while the 1880s living history farm allows visitors to step back in time and experience rural German farm life. Visitors can learn about nature and local history at Spring Valley through various activities such as exploring, discovering, observing, and listening. To preserve the natural resources of Spring Valley, visitors are asked to stay on marked trails and refrain from activities that may harm the environment or disrupt other visitors.

The Barrie Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 1011 South Lombard Avenue in Oak Park, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and explore. With its lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and inviting picnic areas, the Barrie Center is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, this lovely park has something for everyone. Come visit the Barrie Center and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Oak Park.

Austin Gardens is a beautiful and serene park located at 167 Forest Avenue in Oak Park, Illinois. Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, it is often referred to as "The Secret Garden" due to its peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With woodland plant life and mature trees, Austin Gardens offers a tranquil escape for visitors. The park is home to 285 trees within its 3.64 acre boundary, providing a lush and green environment for all to enjoy. In 2015, the Park District of Oak Park constructed a 2,100 square foot Environmental Education Center within the park, offering nature day camps, educational programs, and community events.

Located at 3247 West Longhollow Road in Galena, Illinois, Long Hollow Canopy Tours is a top tourist attraction offering thrilling zipline tours and aerial adventure park experiences in the beautiful wooded hills of Galena. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time zipliner, our adventures are designed to be accessible for all levels of fitness and experience. Perfect for groups looking for a unique and exciting experience, we offer customized visits for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, school groups, corporate team building events, family reunions, and more. Contact us at 815-281-2853 or email info@longhollowcanopytours.com to book your unforgettable outdoor adventure today!

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.

Howard Colman Hall Creek Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 12749 North Weldon Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature at its finest, with walking trails, scenic views, and abundant wildlife. The preserve is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing escape, Howard Colman Hall Creek Preserve is a must-visit destination in Rockford.

Apple Canyon Lake is a serene and picturesque campground, lodging, and park located at 157 Canyon Club Drive in Apple River, Illinois, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this institution offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests, Apple Canyon Lake provides the perfect setting for camping, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this institution offers a range of accommodations to suit your needs, from cozy cabins to spacious RV sites. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Apple Canyon Lake for yourself.

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.

Western Illinois University Horn Field Campus is a beautiful park located at 985 China Road in Macomb, Illinois, United States. This serene and picturesque campus offers a wide range of outdoor activities and educational programs for visitors of all ages. From hiking and birdwatching to team-building workshops and environmental studies, Horn Field Campus provides a unique and immersive experience in nature. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to connect with the great outdoors, this institution is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Galesburg Nature Center is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located on Woodblock Road in Galesburg, Illinois, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching, and learn about the local flora and fauna through educational programs and exhibits. The center is a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Illinois landscape.

Tawny Oaks Visitor Center is a charming park and tourist attraction located at 715 West Singing Woods Road in Edelstein, Illinois, United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings, learn about the local wildlife, and enjoy educational exhibits and interactive displays. The center offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the wonders of the outdoors. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Tawny Oaks Visitor Center is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

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.

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.

Giant City Nature Trail is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Cobden, Illinois, United States. This stunning natural area features a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, towering rock formations, and serene creeks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape while taking in the sights and sounds of the local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a more challenging hike, Giant City Nature Trail offers something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Panther Den Wilderness is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Makanda, Illinois, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty of the wilderness and experience the serenity of the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, tranquil streams, and diverse wildlife, Panther Den Wilderness is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax and unwind in nature, this institution provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Panther Den Wilderness and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Big Timber Brilliance is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 37W955 Big Timber Road in Elgin, Illinois. This unique institution offers visitors a captivating experience with its stunning displays of natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. From picturesque hiking trails to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Big Timber Brilliance is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Come explore this hidden gem in the heart of the United States and discover the brilliance of Big Timber for yourself.