Skokie Lagoons

Winnetka, IL

Skokie Lagoons offers 894 acres of outdoor fun, including seven interconnected lagoons to paddle, fishing spots, biking and hiking trails and places to enjoy a picnic. It’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to spend a day out on the water or just enjoy nature.

Things to Do

• Hiking

• Biking

• Fishing

• Kayaking

Busse Woods

Elk Grove Village, IL

Busse Woods stands out as one of the most expansive and varied spots within the Forest Preserves of Cook County, boasting old-growth forests, a major fishing and boating lake, almost 13 miles of paved paths, and a grazing area for elk – securing its status as one of Illinois’ most frequented natural destinations.

Things to Do

• Fishing

• Canoe launch

• Birding

• Elk Pasture

• Trails

Des Plaines River Trail

The unpaved Des Plaines River Trail follows its namesake river through more than a dozen forest preserves, offering seamless access to Cook County’s trails. There is a nature house where forest animals reside for the public to view and the trails are very calm and beautiful- especially in the fall when the leaves change colors. Enjoy casual strolls, full-day adventures – even a picnic right along the Des Plaines River.

Things to Do

• Canoe launches

• Hiking and biking trails

• Cross-country skiing

• Fishing

• Horseback riding

Tampier Lake

Palos Park, IL

Tampier Lake is a haven for water enthusiasts, featuring a fishing-friendly shoreline, a boat launch, and a rental center with boat rentals and fishing equipment.

Things to Do

• Fishing

• Kayaking and canoeing

• Boat rentals

• Boat launch

Cal-Sag Trail

The Cal-Sag Trail links together three marinas, three golf courses, and six nature and forest preserves, creating a hub for leisure and outdoor experiences. Over 20 miles of trail connecting Indiana and the Chicago Lakefront to Lemont, Illinois, and the I&M Canal Trail across the Chicago Southland.

Things to Do

• Hiking

• Biking

• Dog-friendly

• Lake Katherine Nature Center (Palos Heights)

Harms Woods

Skokie, IL

Harms Woods is a popular forest preserve with a range of activities, from leisurely walks and bike rides to observing thriving wildlife in restored natural habitats. Straddling the North Branch of the Chicago River, the preserve features the paved North Branch Trail on its eastern side, while its western side boasts unpaved paths amid spring wildflowers and flourishing populations of butterflies and birds, all nurtured by dedicated restoration.

Things to Do

• Hiking

• Biking

• Birding

• Wildflowers

• Picnic Areas

Little Red School House

Willow Springs, IL

The Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center has educated and delighted generations of families with a variety of activities. Meet live animals, explore educational exhibits—including the original 1886 schoolhouse–and roam outside among three unpaved trails and a paved accessible garden trail.

Things to Do

• Nature Center

• Walking trails, connecting to the Palos Trail System

• Accessible 6,000-square-foot garden

• Field trip opportunities

Downtown Chicago

Bemis Woods

Cook County, IL

Enjoy activities like bird-watching, hiking, biking, and picnicking in Bemis Woods Forest Preserve. This 480-acre area is equipped with both paved and unpaved paths, a canoe launch, and the thrilling Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course for an added dose of excitement.

Things to Do

• Zipline and adventure course

• Birding

• Picnicking

• Hiking and biking trails

• Canoeing and kayaking

Camp Sullivan

Oak Forest, IL

Camp Sullivan is a great retreat for group getaways and families alike in cozy bunkhouses or secluded tent camping in the forest. Ideally located with entry to the Tinley Creek Trail System, it’s an excellent spot for delving into the great outdoors. The barn itself is a center of excitement, equipped with a climbing wall and more for adventure seekers.

Things to Do

• Camping

• Picnicking

• Turtle Head Lake

• Arrowhead Lake

• Tinley Creek Trails

Camp Bullfrog Lake

Willow Springs, IL

Take advantage of all-season camping, group fun, and aquatic activities like kayaking and fishing at Camp Bullfrog Lake. With a prime lakeside location near the expansive, rolling terrain of the Palos Preserves, it’s an ideal spot for hiking, mountain biking, and observing local birdlife.

Things to Do

• Camping

• Canoeing and kayaking

• Boat rentals

• Fishing

• Mountain riding

Sand Ridge Nature Center

South Holland, IL

Sand Ridge Nature Center is a great place for outdoor adventurers of all ages. The center offers a nature play area, interactive exhibits, gardens, nature trails and more. A short hike away is Camp Shabbona, a convenient three-season campground in an oak forest with cabins, tent sites and plenty of open space.

Things to Do

• Camping

• Hiking

• Burnham Greenway Trail System

Deer Grove Forest Preserve

Palatine, IL

Tucked in the oak-filled preserve, Deer Grove Forest Preserve is a convenient gateway for outdoor adventure. The forest features cozy heated cabins available all year, tent sites, a dining hall and outdoor spaces ideal for group activities or a personal escape. Enjoy hiking trails and the nearby Crabtree Nature Center for a unique glimpse into a glacier-formed landscape with a variety of habitats including woodlands, wetlands and prairies where you can see a variety of migratory birds. The center also offers guided walks and family-friendly programming throughout the year.

Things to Do

• Camping and cabins

• Hiking and biking trails

• Cross-country skiing

• Crabtree Nature Center