Illinois
Find local adventures, unique places to stay, and guided adventure tours in Illinois.
Top Adventures in Illinois
Hike the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail
4.9
1 mi
In the southernmost part of Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is a wonderful natural area that transports you far from the flat agricultural landscape typical of so much of the Midwest. Located in the central area of the forest, Garden of the Gods...
Hike the Matthiessen State Park Loop
4.9
5.8 mi
With 5 miles of trails, which alternate between cliffs, canyons, and bluffs, Matthiessen State Park has plenty to offer. This particular trail also includes three waterfalls, along the way.
From the Dells Area parking lot, head down the steps next...
Hike Ottawa Canyon at Starved Rock State Park
5.0
3.9 mi
This canyon is not as popular as some of the others in this park but it is my favorite by far. You can either hike the full 3.9 miles from the visitor center or you can jump in your car and head over to one of the parking lots on the east side fo...
Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park
4.8
3.5 mi
/ 250 ft gain
Starting off right from the parking lot at Matthiessen State Park, follow the trail markers through the forest, across beautiful bridges, and find your way to one of the many stunning waterfalls. Depending on when you go, the water level will vary...
Hike to Starved Rock's La Salle Canyon
4.0
4.4 mi
/ 370 ft gain
This out-and-back trail is one of the parks longest trails. Starting from the visitors center it is 2.2 mile hike one way and 4.4 miles if you go out and back. The trail is very much worth the long trek. You enjoy the views and fresh air of the Il...
Hike the Upper Dells of Matthiessen State Park
4.3
2.2 mi
/ 627 ft gain
From the start of the parking lot you will cross a picnic area to your left where you can have a bite to eat before or after your hike. The trailhead starts off with a couple flights of stair leading you down to the bridge. After taking in the spe...
Run Chicago’s Lakefront Trail
5.0
6.7 mi
Chicago – the third largest city in the US and home to the deep dish pizza – doesn’t exactly scream “outdoorsy.” In reality, there is much more to Chicago than skyscrapers; there are dozens of parks, outdoor music venues, and the city is right on ...
Hike the Waterfall Glen Loop
5.0
9.4 mi
/ 387 ft gain
It is easy to modify your route, with lots of side trails to choose from. A waterfall and scenic views make for a pleasant spot to exercise.
Illinois camping, hotels, and more
Carlyle, Illinois
Dam East Rec. Area (Day Use)
Overview
Dam East Recreation Area is situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Loca...
Shelbyville, Illinois
Lithia Springs
Overview
Lithia Springs Campground sits on the eastern shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois. This facility has a va...
Shelbyville, Illinois
Opossum Creek
Overview
Opossum Creek Recreation Area has a quiet campground that sits on the western shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central ...
Thomson, Illinois
Thomson Causeway
Overview
Thomson Causeway provides the unique experience of island camping on the great Mississippi River and it's well worth a try! The ...