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Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation

Get Outside in Downstate Illinois

There's so much to discover when it comes to the outdoors in Downstate Illinois! From hiking and biking to berry picking and golfing, there's something for everyone. As you’ve probably noticed by now, we cover 21 counties in Downstate Illinois. That makes us the largest tourism bureau in the state, but it also makes us one of the most diverse regions because each community has something unique that they’re known for. Let us shine a spotlight on each county that makes up this wonderful area. 

Buck Stop Archery

 Brownstown, Illinois
The 3-D Archery Range is a mile-long trek through the woods. The full-service Archery Pro Shop offers a complete li...more!

Illinois Central Railroad Riverwalk

 Vandalia, Illinois
Walk along the former historic Illinois Central Railroad to the beautiful scenery that is the Kaskaskia River. You ...more!

Lincoln Walking Trail

 Vandalia, Illinois
Asphalt scenic trail winding through the city park. The trail can be entered at the corner of Locust & Jefferso...more!

Ramsey Lake Golf Course

 Ramsey, Illinois
Ramsey Lake Golf Course is under new ownership! Dustin and Michelle Finley are great people and they are working to...more!

Ramsey Lake State Park - Ramsey

 Ramsey, Illinois
Rolling hills, timbered shoreline, and beautiful Ramsey Lake make the Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area a unique an...more!

St. Elmo Golf Club

 Saint Elmo, Illinois
St. Elmo Golf Club is a 9-hole semi-private golf course located just outside of  St. Elmo, Illinois.  The...more!

Vandalia Country & Golf Club

 Vandalia, Illinois
...more!

Vandalia Lake

 Vandalia, Illinois
The Vandalia Lake is a 660-acre lake with 12 miles of shoreline, located four miles northwest of Vandalia on Illino...more!

Vandalia Lake Beach

 Vandalia, Illinois
Swimming is available at Jaycees Beach which features a large sloping sand beach, plus a modern beach house and sho...more!

Vandalia Swimming Pool

 Vandalia, Illinois
...more!

Downstate Illinois Events

Downstate Illinois Events

Explore Our Event Calendar
Whether you’re looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing.
Travel Ideas

Travel Ideas

Check Out Our Blog
From outdoor recreation and adventure to foodies and family fun, we have the trip ideas to plan the perfect vacation.
Road Trip Itineraries

Road Trip Itineraries

21 Counties made for Road Trips
Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
Money Shoot

Money Shoot

 February 3, 2025 - August 29, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
North American Outfitters | Highland, IL
Budding Naturalist

Budding Naturalist

 February 7, 2025 @ 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Douglas-Hart Nature Center | Mattoon, IL
Valentine's Day Gift & Craft Show

Valentine's Day Gift & Craft Show

 February 7, 2025 - February 9, 2025 @ 12:00 PM - 12:00 PM
Cross County Mall | Mattoon, IL

View Entire Events Calendar

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