Water plant visitor parking in Illinois

Welcome to Kankakee Sands Illinois - Tallmadge Sand Forest Nestled in the culturally rich community of Hopkins Park, Illinois, Kankakee Sands Illinois - Tallmadge Sand Forest is a stunning natural park that offers a glimpse into the Midwest's pristine past. This unique landscape is home to some of the world's rarest black oak savannas, remnants of a time when these habitats stretched across millions of acres. A visit here is like stepping back in time to a tranquil savanna filled with birdsong, expansive prairie grasses, and vibrant wildflowers.

Welcome to Rainbow Beach Dunes Natural Area, a serene oasis nestled at 3111 East 77th Street in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. Our park is a cherished gem for nature enthusiasts and families seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Spanning a picturesque landscape, Rainbow Beach Dunes offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore our pristine sandy dunes, lush native vegetation, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, making it an ideal spot for bird watching, nature photography, or simply enjoying a quiet walk along our well-maintained trails.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction covering 891 acres of diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Acquired between 1938 and 2007, this preserve was previously a Boy Scout camp and now offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on its 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. Visitors can also enjoy camping at the primitive campsites, sledding on the 40-foot hill in winter, and geocaching with permits. The Plum Creek Nature Center on site provides nature education opportunities for all ages, with a natural playscape for outdoor learning experiences. With state-threatened or endangered plant and animal species, Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is a protected Illinois Nature Preserve dedicated to conserving its natural resources for future generations.

Tropic World is a popular tourist attraction located at 3300 Golf Road in Brookfield, Illinois, United States. This unique institution is a zoo that transports visitors to different regions of the world through immersive exhibits showcasing a wide variety of tropical animals and habitats. From the lush rainforests of South America to the vibrant coral reefs of the Caribbean, Tropic World offers a one-of-a-kind experience for animal lovers of all ages. With interactive displays, educational programs, and conservation efforts, Tropic World is dedicated to promoting wildlife preservation and environmental awareness. Come explore the wonders of the tropics right in the heart of Illinois at Tropic World.

West Reflecting Pool is a serene and picturesque park located in Brookfield, Illinois, United States. The focal point of this institution is the stunning reflecting pool, which offers a tranquil oasis for visitors to relax and unwind. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscaping, the West Reflecting Pool provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, this park is the perfect place to do so. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views, West Reflecting Pool is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of tranquility in the heart of Brookfield.

The Cancer Survivors' Garden is a peaceful and inspiring park located at 337 East Randolph Street in Chicago, Illinois. This beautiful garden serves as a symbol of hope and resilience for those who have overcome the challenges of cancer. Visitors can stroll through the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene water features while reflecting on the strength and courage of cancer survivors. The Cancer Survivors' Garden is not only a place of healing and tranquility, but also a popular tourist attraction in Chicago, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its beauty and significance.

Bonnie's Prairie Nature Preserve is a picturesque park located in Watseka, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the prairie landscape. With its diverse flora and fauna, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics in this serene setting. Bonnie's Prairie Nature Preserve is the 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.

The Forest Preserve located at 3302 Waldron Road in Kankakee, Illinois, is a beautiful park that offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With acres of lush forest, winding trails, and serene lakes, this park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature. Whether you're interested in hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, the Forest Preserve has something for everyone. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located in Momence, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wetlands ecosystem. With its diverse plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species, the preserve provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about the local environment. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

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.

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.

Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area is a breathtaking park located on Bell Smith Springs Road in Ozark, Illinois, United States. This stunning natural attraction is known for its picturesque scenery, including lush forests, crystal clear springs, and unique rock formations. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, go swimming in the refreshing springs, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With its diverse plant and animal life, Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of southern Illinois.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2715 South Main Street in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of plant life, including trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world. With peaceful walking paths, educational programs, and special events throughout the year, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Rockford.

The Quad City Botanical Center is a beautiful park located at 2525 4th Avenue in Rock Island, Illinois, United States. This enchanting botanical center is a haven for nature lovers, featuring a stunning collection of plants and flowers from around the world. Visitors can explore the lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and winding pathways, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The Quad City Botanical Center also offers educational programs, workshops, and events for all ages, making it a great destination for families, students, and anyone with a green thumb. Whether you're looking to learn more about plants or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, the Quad City Botanical Center is a must-visit destination in the Quad Cities area.

Sinnissippi Gardens is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1354 North 2nd Street in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This beautiful oasis offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, colorful flowers, serene ponds, and meandering pathways. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Sinnissippi Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind in a picturesque setting.

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1354 North 2nd Street in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This institution boasts an impressive collection of exotic plants and flowers, as well as beautiful landscapes and water features. Visitors can explore the lush greenery, relax in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With its vibrant colors and tranquil ambiance, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Luthy Botanical Garden is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 2520 North Prospect Road in Peoria, Illinois, United States. This beautiful garden features a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world, making it a peaceful and educational destination for visitors of all ages. With well-maintained walking paths, serene ponds, and colorful displays, Luthy Botanical Garden offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil spot to unwind, this botanical garden is sure to impress with its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

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.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a stunning museum and park located at 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe, Illinois, United States. This world-renowned institution features 27 breathtaking gardens and four natural areas spread across 385 acres. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of plants from around the globe, participate in educational programs, and enjoy events and exhibitions throughout the year. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

Jarrett Prairie Center is a charming museum and park located at 7993 North River Road in Byron, Illinois, United States. This popular tourist attraction is a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The center features exhibits on the rich prairie ecosystem of the region, as well as interactive displays and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The surrounding park offers beautiful walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Illinois countryside. Whether you're looking to learn about the local environment or simply enjoy a peaceful day in nature, Jarrett Prairie Center is the perfect destination for a fun and educational outing.

Horseshoe Mound Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1679 North Blackjack Road in Galena, Illinois, United States. The preserve offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is home to a variety of native plants and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and scenic setting. Horseshoe Mound Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of Illinois.

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.

Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary, located in Oglesby, Illinois, United States, is a 45-acre island across from Starved Rock State Park in the Illinois River. This park and tourist attraction was acquired by the Society in March 2004 to protect it from residential and commercial development. Thanks to a generous grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the three-year struggle to save the island was successful. Bald eagles use Plum Island as a wintering site, perching in the trees and flying over the river to feed at the nearby lock and dam. The Society's goal is to not only protect the island for the eagles but also to preserve the scenic view from atop Starved Rock and to safeguard the Native American archaeological sites on the island. Reforestation efforts are ongoing, and the island will be closed to visitors except for stewardship activities. Volunteers have donated many hours to help plant trees and maintain the sanctuary.

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Wilmington, Illinois, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving and restoring the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about this important natural habitat. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse wildlife, and educational programs, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts alike.

The Arboretum of South Barrington is a premier shopping destination located at 100 West Higgins Road in South Barrington, Illinois. This upscale shopping mall offers a unique and luxurious shopping experience with a variety of high-end retailers, boutiques, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through beautifully landscaped outdoor areas, complete with fountains and seating areas. The Arboretum of South Barrington is the perfect place to shop, dine, and relax in style.

Lake Lou Yaeger is located at 4943 Beach House Trail in Litchfield, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. The 1,357-acre lake is perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing. Visitors can also relax on the sandy swim beach at Milnot Beach or book a campsite for a more rustic experience. The Route 66 Hike & Bike Trail provides a scenic route for walking or biking through the woods surrounding the lake. The Shoal Creek Conservation Area is a must-see for nature enthusiasts, with a diverse range of plant and animal species to observe. Equestrian trails and campgrounds are also available for horse lovers. Picnic areas and playgrounds are perfect for a family outing, and visitors even have the option to become a lake resident in Litchfield. Whether you're looking for a day of fun in the sun or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Lou Yaeger has something for everyone.

Located at 435 Confluence Tower Drive in Hartford, Illinois, the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is a must-visit destination along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. Rising 180 feet above the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, the tower offers three viewing platforms at 50, 100, and 150 feet, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore a garden featuring plants collected by Lewis and Clark, as well as an outdoor amphitheater at the base of the tower. The indoor visitor center houses interactive exhibits, videos, and graphic panels that tell the stories of the history, wildlife, and communities along the scenic byway.

Washington Greenhouse is a multi-faceted institution located at 2679 Centennial Drive in Washington, Illinois, United States. As a general contractor, they offer a wide range of services to help with landscaping and outdoor projects. Additionally, they have a beautiful park area where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The on-site store offers a variety of plants, flowers, and gardening supplies for purchase. Whether you're looking to spruce up your outdoor space or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Washington Greenhouse has something for everyone.

Frog Pond is a park and tourist attraction located at 9898 Illinois 84, Savanna, Illinois, United States. It is part of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, which has been a sanctuary for fish, wildlife, and people since 1924. The refuge spans 261 river miles, protecting over 240,000 acres of Mississippi River floodplain. Visitors can enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational activities, with more than 3.7 million annual visits. The park offers pool maps outlining where visitors can engage in various activities. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe a variety of species throughout the seasons, from the summer sounds of frogs to the fall migration. Frog Pond works to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that some activities require a special use permit. Explore the beauty of the refuge and embark on your next adventure at Frog Pond!

Pecatonica River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 7260 Judd Road in Pecatonica, Illinois, United States. This serene natural area offers visitors a peaceful retreat where they can enjoy hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking along the picturesque Pecatonica River. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its scenic trails and tranquil surroundings, Pecatonica River Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with the great outdoors.