Illinois
Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is the sixth most populous state in the country, with a diverse population that includes large African American and Hispanic communities. The state is known for its rich history, including its role in Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and its significance during the Civil War. Illinois is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. The state also has a diverse landscape, with rolling hills, prairies, and forests. Agriculture is a major industry in Illinois, with the state producing a significant amount of corn, soybeans, and other crops.
Illinois is not particularly well-known for its forests, as much of the state’s land has been converted to agriculture or urban development. However, there are still some significant forested areas in the state, including the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois. The forest covers over 280,000 acres and includes a variety of ecosystems, including oak-hickory forests, cypress swamps, and sandstone canyons. Other forested areas in Illinois include the Cache River Wetlands in the southern part of the state and the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie in the northeast. While Illinois may not have the vast, dense forests found in other parts of the country, its forests still offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, as well as important ecological benefits.
The Shawnee National Forest is a national forest located in southern Illinois, covering over 280,000 acres of land. The forest is named after the Shawnee Native American tribe, who once inhabited the area. The forest is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, including oak-hickory forests, cypress swamps, and sandstone canyons. The forest is also home to several unique geological features, such as the Garden of the Gods, a rocky outcropping with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The forest offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The River to River Trail runs through the forest, providing over 160 miles of hiking and backpacking opportunities. The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagles. Check out more information here! https://www.fs.usda.gov/shawnee
Hidden Springs Ranger District
602 N. First Street Route 45 North Vienna, Illinois 62995
(618) 658-2111
Mississippi Bluffs Ranger District
521 N. Main Street Jonesboro, Illinois 62952
(618) 833-8576
There’s no land managed by the Bureau of Land Management in Illinois!
The grasslands in Illinois are expansive, covering large areas of the state’s prairie region. They are characterized by tall grasses and wildflowers, and are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. The grasslands are an important part of Illinois’ ecosystem, providing habitat for many species and contributing to the state’s agricultural industry. The grasslands are also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. In addition, the grasslands play an important role in the state’s history, as they were once home to many Native American tribes and played a key role in the region’s early settlement and development.
The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is a national preserve located in northeastern Illinois, covering over 19,000 acres of land. It is the largest protected tallgrass prairie in the state and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species. The preserve was established in 1996 after the decommissioning of the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant, which had been in operation since World War II. Today, the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, which once covered much of the Midwest. The preserve offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing, as well as educational programs and events. Visitors to the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie can learn about the history of the site, the importance of tallgrass prairies to the region’s ecology, and ongoing restoration efforts. Check out more information here! https://www.fs.usda.gov/midewin
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
IL-53, Wilmington, IL 60481
(815) 423-6370
tips and tricks
Illinois is known for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, as well as other regional specialties like Italian beef sandwiches and horseshoe sandwiches.
The state has a rich history, with many museums and historical sites dedicated to the state’s role in American history, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.
When driving, be aware of Illinois’ strict traffic laws, including seat belt and cell phone use regulations, and watch out for speed cameras and red light cameras in certain areas.
do’s and dont’s
Visit Chicago and its many attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Willis Tower Skydeck!
Don’t ignore Chicago’s public transportation system, which includes the L train and buses. It can be a more efficient and cost-effective way to get around the city than driving.
