Travelling to the US? Check out these outdoor escapes in Illinois' state parks and national forest

The United States of America has many different natural and manmade outdoor escapes and one of them is Illinois which boasts of a landscape that ranges from ancient rock formations to rivercarved canyonsWith a national forest and dozens of state parks it is has allyearround opportunities for hiking biking fishing climbing and simply soaking in naturersquos raw beauty From the rugged cliffs of the Shawnee National Forest to the serene prairies of Buffalo Rock State Park these preserved spaces are inviting for nature loversIf you are travelling to the US then heres your complete guideShawnee National Forest and Garden of the GodsThe Shawnee National Forest spans much of southern Illinois situated between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers is an outdoor adventure for any time of the year The forest is an outdoor enthusiasts dream offering hiking horseback riding rock climbing fishing and wonderful bird and naturewatching opportunities Garden of the Gods renowned for its breathtaking views features two main trails The Observation Trail is a quartermile stone path that showcases famous rock formations and provides a panoramic view of the ancient forest and a fascinating geological history as well as stunning views of unique rock formations like Camel Rock and Devilrsquos Smokestack shaped over 300 million years by natures elementsMatthiessen State ParkCanyons streams prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park located in central LaSalle County approximately four miles south of Utica and three miles east of Oglesby Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology as well as recreation The park has five miles of trails from canyons to river bluffs through woodland and waterfalls Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife All of this along with park and picnic facilities make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for a special outingStarved Rock State ParkStarved Rock is a storied natural area located less than 100 miles southwest of Chicago Seasonal waterfalls aweinspiring bluffs and rugged canyons dominate the storied landscape at Starved Rock Rich with history and beauty Starved Rockrsquos hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River Outdoor activities include hiking canoeing paddle boat cruises crosscountry skiing trolley rides fishing and picnicking Visitors can stay at the historic Starved Rock Lodge or in one of its cosy cabins Starved Rock offers a plethora of activities such as a scenic ride on the Starved Rock State Park trolley and picnics with stunning canyon views A little further south the Vermilion River offers whitewater rafting adventures for all skill levels Bald eagles grace the park yearround though the viewing opportunities are particularly good in winter which the park celebrates with Eagle Week in January Additionally a secluded oneofakind 26acre retreat called Treehouses at Starved Rock offers 2 spacious luxury treehouses against a backdrop of picturesque trails canyons and bluffsBuffalo Rock State ParkWith a mix of prairie and woodland Buffalo Rock State Park located 85 miles southwest of Chicago near Ottawa and Utica is the smaller lesscrowded sister of nearby Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park with sweeping views of the Illinois River not to be overlooked On the bluffs of the Illinois River this charming park is home to an enormous outdoor sculpture known as the Effigy Tumuli These mounds representing five earthen sculptures are moulded from Illinois clay and invite visitors to walk around and explore Buffalo Rock State Park is also ideal for beginner hikers looking to develop their skillsMississippi Palisades State ParkThe Mississippi Palisades State Park a 30minute drive from Galena in Savanna located along the Mississippi River and the Great River Road is known for its steep cliffs and interesting rock formations Nestled near the confluence of the Mississippi and Apple rivers the 2500acre Mississippi Palisades State Park is rich in Native American history The park also features beautiful trails the longest of which Sentinel Trail more than 13 miles leads to the aweinspiring Sentinel RockPere Marquette State ParkSpanning 8000 acres Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton offers some of Illinoisrsquo most scenic hiking and biking trails In summer visitors can see the park from new heights riding the Grafton Sky Tour a gondola ride offering sweeping views of the mighty Mississippi and Pere Marquette State Park Be sure to check out the exhilarating views on Grafton Zipline Adventures featuring nine zip lines throughout Pere Marquette State Park For accommodations nearby Aeriersquos Resort offers one of the best views in the Midwest along with thrilling zipline adventures and a range of other activitiesGiant City State ParkGiant City State Park in Makanda near Carbondale is known for its natural landscape of giant sandstone bluffs and narrow corridors framed by sheer cliff faces and featuring wildflowers dozens of tree varieties and lush ferns and greenery The park is full of hiking opportunities with eight trails catering to all levels of skill and experience such as The Giant City Nature Trail which takes you through the ldquostreetsrdquo the canrsquotmiss attraction of the park The park also offers two designated climbing and rappelling areas including the sheer cliffs of Devilrsquos Standtable There is also fishing boating hunting camping and horseback riding available For accommodation Giant City Lodge a cornerstone of the park built in the 1930s welcomes visitors with its rustic beauty and oldschool charm