Beginning on May 1, many of Illinois’ state parks reopened to allow individuals to engage in a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking and fishing (with a limit of two per boat regardless of relationship of the people in the boat). At time of publication the following areas are open for your enjoyment:
- Northwestern Illinois: Argyle Lake State Park, Jubilee College State Park, Lowden State Park, Morrison-Rockwood State Park, Rock Island Trail State Park, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
- Northeastern Illinois: Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park/North Point Marina, Chain O’ Lakes State Park, Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail (includes Buffalo Rock, Channahon, Gebhard Woods, and William G Stratton), Kankakee River State Park, Moraine Hills State Park
- East Central Illinois: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, Eagle Creek State Park, Kickapoo State Park, Wolf Creek State Park
- West Central Illinois: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, Sangchris Lake State Park, Siloam Springs State Park, Washington County State Recreation Area
- Southern Illinois: Fort Massac State Park, Giant City State Park, Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area
Many national parks are open, but it is wise to check ahead before traveling. As always, whatever you pack into the parks, bring back out with you, and adhere to all park regulations.
Source: IDNR
