Illini State Park

This state park offers beautiful river views and room to frolic. Sit on a carpet of green grass at River Meadows Picnic Area. The edge of the grass goes right up to the riverbank. The gentle Illinois River serves as a backdrop, while the river turns into churning rapids just north of the park.

Stretch your legs along the Illini-Wek Trail, with tall trees providing shade for all. Hickory, ash, walnut, elm, cottonwood, oak and maple trees turn brilliant hues in the fall. Walk to the north end of the park to see barge traffic at the Marseilles Lock and Dam. The east side features the remnants of Marsatawa Country Club.

Enhance your wintertime fun with sledding hills and an ice skating pool. Then, rest from all of this low-key exercise at the year-round pavilion. Unfold a chair and fish from the shoreline to land crappie, bass, bluegill, catfish, carp, and bullheads.

Campsites include 45 spots with electricity and 55 standard sites. Three shelters and a cabin are also available.