Illinois' Park Sandwiched Between The Mississippi And Illinois Rivers Has Lush Forests And Gorgeous Views

Think of Illinois and you most likely picture the dazzling lights of Chicago, with its vibrant neighborhoods packed with great eats and lakefront vibes. But venture into the wilderness beyond the Windy City and you'll find breathtaking landscapes and rolling countryside. If you're an avid adventurer looking for new terrain to explore, then make your way to Pere Marquette State Park. Tucked along the prairie floodplains where the Illinois River meets the Mississippi River, the state park boasts nearly 8,000 acres of dense woodlands dominated by towering limestone cliffs — it's a veritable paradise for nature enthusiasts.

The state park is named for the French Jesuit missionary, Pere (Father) Jacques Marquette. In the 1670s, he voyaged down the Mississippi River along with the cartographer, Louis Joliet, as well as a group of explorers in the hope that they would reach the Pacific Ocean. A towering stone cross still marks the spot just east of the state park entrance where the group stopped to rest along the Illinois River as they made their return journey.

With endless unspoiled landscapes to enjoy, every season offers new opportunities for adventure. Summer is perfect for boating on the river, while autumn sweeps across the forested ravines in hues of amber and orange. The winter months are popular for bringing binoculars to spot bald eagles flying through the treetops. Rocky bluffs provide scenic viewpoints to admire the floodplains stretching to the horizon, while the visitor's center offers fascinating exhibits and displays with information about the local history, park geology, and wildlife habitats. Stretched along the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway, a section of the Great River Road, leisurely drives are also an easy way to admire the park's landscape. No matter what adventure you're looking for, Pere Marquette State Park has it all.

There's an outdoor activity for every type of adventurer here. If you're just looking to relax amidst the stunning forested scenery, pack a hamper to make use of the picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Grills and tables mean you could even cook up a delicious snack on the spot. Three picnic shelters are also located within the park, which can be reserved for a fee. Furry friends can also enjoy the park with you, as long as they are kept on a leash.

With miles of trails stretching through the wooded slopes and limestone bluffs, you could spend all day hiking here. For an easy half-mile loop, take the Dogwood Trail, which starts at the visitor's center and meanders beneath groves of sugar maple and pawpaw trees to a panoramic overlook of the Illinois River. Meanwhile, the Ravine Trail offers mushroom-picking opportunities in the autumn, while prairie grass sways alongside the picturesque footpath cutting through the meadowlands. For more of a challenge, the Ridge Trail ascends steep slopes and summits McAdams Peak, where you'll be able to spot bald eagles nesting below.

Bring your bicycles to pedal along the scenic byways through the park, while the Vadalabene Bike Trail offers incredible overlooks across the Mississippi River, and equestrians can enjoy at least 20 miles of trails for horseback riding. Meanwhile, anglers should pack their rods, since boat launches and docks within the park mean you can head out onto the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers to fish for bluegill, carp, catfish, and largemouth bass. Families with kids should stop by in June for the annual Two Rivers Family Fishing Fair, a beloved local festival with catch-and-release fishing, casting stations, and all-around merriment.

Wedged along the border between Illinois and Missouri, the state park is less than an hour's drive from St. Louis, making it a great day trip if you want to escape the city. And if you're from out of town, St. Louis is actually a great spot to base yourself for the best experience of bright lights and quiet nature. Explore Clayton, St. Louis' charming and walkable "second downtown" in between scenic drives over to Pere Marquette State Park for an unforgettable vacation. While you're in St. Louis, don't miss the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, known as America's "largest prehistoric earthen mound" and a perfect attraction for archeology enthusiasts.

If you're driving to Pere Marquette State Park from Chicago, the journey takes almost five hours, so a weekend getaway is in order. Camp in the state park itself, or find a cozy cottage in Grafton, a small town just 10 minutes east by car. Head to the Tara Point Inn & Cottages for comfortable lodging that feels like a home away from home, while the River View Guest House boasts rooms with excellent vistas. After adventuring around the park, you'll also find excellent local eateries in Grafton to fill up on a delicious meal, whether it's mouthwatering barbecue or fresh seafood.

To spend the night inside the state park without having to pitch a tent, book a room at the Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center, a charming limestone chalet near the park entrance. With a 700-ton stone fireplace keeping the lodge's restaurant toasty, not to mention rustic stone cabins to sleep in, and a fantastic on-site winery with a tasting terrace overlooking the river, a stay here is sure to be the magical finish to your adventures in Pere Marquette State Park.