Sand Ridge State Forest, Illinois

Sand Ridge State Forest is the exception to the central Illinois corn field stereotype—here you will find a 7,200-acre island of forested beauty amongst a sea of agriculture action. As Illinois’ largest state forest, it comes with sweeping oak-hickory and pine tree lines, sprawling fields and grasslands for stretching those legs, and uniquely scenic sand prairies made for backpack trekking.

This unspoiled gem of nature will refresh your soul in no time. You may be surprised to experience the typically southwest vibes here in the Midwest, with prickly pear cactus and regularly desert critters known to dot the area. The panoramic vistas are overflowing with hiking, snowmobiling, and horseback riding trails that are just waiting to be explored. Whether you want to load up the crew and hit this place up for some fireside chillaxing or prefer to find more solitary seclusion in the backcountry, Sand Ridge is just right for everyone.