Photo Credit: Samantha McCann via Enjoy Illinois
As we help slow the spread of COVID-19, Gov. J.B. Pritzker has modified Illinois’ stay-at-home order to allow residents to fit in some outdoor recreation.
Some Illinois state parks will reopen for limited use beginning May 1, according to the lIlinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Guests will be able to participate in activities such as hiking, biking and fishing at a safe social distance. The following state parks will be open:
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- Northeastern Illinois: Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park / North Point Marina, Chain O’ Lakes State Park, Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail (includes Buffalo Rock, Channahon, Gebhard Woods, and William G Stratton), Kankakee River State Park, Moraine Hills State Park
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- Northwestern Illinois: Argyle Lake State Park, Jubilee College State Park, Lowden State Park, Morrison-Rockwood State Park, Rock Island Trail State Park, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area
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- East Central Illinois: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, Eagle Creek State Park, Kickapoo State Park, Wolf Creek State Park
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- West Central Illinois: Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, Sangchris Lake State Park, Siloam Springs State Park, Washington County State Recreation Area
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- Southern Illinois: Fort Massac State Park, Giant City State Park, Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area, Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area
Restrooms located at the parks will also be open. When visiting each park, some facilities will still be closed, including: Visitor centers, campgrounds, playgrounds, shelter reservations, interpretive educational programs, beaches, special events and concessions.
IDNR recommends to follow basic health and safety practices when visiting. Don’t forget to practice social distancing, only visit state parks closest to where you live and don’t leave your house if you feel sick. Stay safe!
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