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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. 

Columbia Park

 McLeansboro, Illinois
The site of city fairs and social events in the 1840s, it now it offers croquet games and putting practice....more!

Heard's Pond Park

 McLeansboro, Illinois
Heard's Pond was originally built to supply water for the Louisville and Nashville Railroad steam engines, and ...more!

Kid's Kingdom

 McLeansboro, Illinois
A re-creation of Historic McLeansboro where children can climb, swing, slide and play. The park also offers a pavil...more!

Lakeview Park - McLeansboro

 McLeansboro, Illinois
The park offers fishing, the Weinmann Pavilion for outdoor entertaining, cooking sites, and a play area for childre...more!

McLeansboro City Pool

 McLeansboro, Illinois
The City Pool has been offering splashing fun to the young and the young-at-heart for half a century. The season be...more!

McLeansboro Golf Club

 McLeansboro, Illinois
McLeansboro Golf Club is a nine-hole semi-private course located on the west side of McLeansboro, offering a mix of...more!

Organ Farms

 McLeansboro, Illinois
Bring the whole family for Fall Country Fun at the farm. Groups can reserve weekdays and evenings and the public is...more!

Rogers-Dewitt Park

 McLeansboro, Illinois
The 58-acre park features a nature trail with two foot bridges, a meadow and a fishing pond. Primitive camping site...more!

Southern Illinois Trophy Bowhunting

 McLeansboro, Illinois
Southern Illinois Trophy Bowhunting in McLeansboro, IL offers archery and firearm hunting on over 5,000 acres of la...more!

Ten Mile Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

 McLeansboro, Illinois
The site provides a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities including wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, tar...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
Nature in the Arts

Nature in the Arts

 February 12, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Douglas-Hart Nature Center | Mattoon, IL
Free Community Yoga

Free Community Yoga

 February 12, 2025 @ 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Belleville Books | Belleville, IL

View Entire Events Calendar

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