The 16 Best National Parks Near Chicago

Northerly Island Park is a beautiful park located in Chicago, offering stunning views of the city skyline. This park provides various amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, public toilets, and a kid-friendly environment. With dog-friendly policies, it's a great place for families and nature lovers alike.

The park's accessibility features make it inclusive for all, with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances. Customer reviews praise Northerly Island Park for its exceptional views and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the park as a serene spot in the city to relax and explore nature.

Overall, customers have highlighted the following key points in their reviews:

• Exquisite views of the Chicago skyline
• Peaceful environment for walking, biking, or skating
• Great spot for photography and outdoor activities
• Limited crowds and a perfect place to unwind

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Northerly Island Park on your next outdoor adventure!

Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park is a hidden gem in Chicago, offering a unique park experience right in the heart of the city. With options for hiking, picnicking, and catch and release fishing, visitors can enjoy a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. The park is wheelchair-accessible and dog-friendly, making it a great destination for families and pet owners.

Customer reviews rave about the park's stunning views and serene atmosphere. Here are some key points from recent visitors:

• A beautiful park with some of the best views of the city. Perfect for a sunset picnic, fishing, or a leisurely stroll.
• Very unique park with a great view of the Willis Tower framed by prairie grass and sky.
• A must-visit park that offers a short escape from busy city life with a variety of activities like picnicking, fishing, walking, and yoga.
• Beautiful park with great views, perfect for walkers, runners, and families with children.

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Henry C. Palmisano Nature Park for yourself - a true oasis in the city.

West Ridge Nature Park offers a serene escape from the bustling streets of Chicago. The park provides various activities such as hiking, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Customer reviews rave about the peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife within the park.

• A gem hidden in plain sight. Amazing how nature can thrive next to a busy Chicago street. Calm and quiet just steps from a bustling loud arterial street. The pond attracts many different bird species. Kids love the nature play space.
• Small loop trail…flat and paved, so great for limited mobility, families w youngish children, elderly, etc. Pleasant enough for being corned between busy avenues…there is some street traffic noise. You’ll find a pond with turtles, perhaps deer, a variety of birds. If you have less than an hour to get out and take a quick walk and get back, then this fits the bill.
• Nice place, I used to run there a lot, Today on 11/21/2023 at 6:50 am I was taking a walk and I saw a cayote or fox there. I know there is kids play ground at that park.Please be careful out there.

Pullman National Historical Park is a renowned historical landmark located in Chicago, IL, United States, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The park provides various services and features, including wheelchair-accessible car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the experience.

With a stellar rating of 4.6 stars out of 5, based on 559 reviews, Pullman National Historical Park has garnered praise for several key points:

• Informative and engaging historical exhibits
• Beautifully preserved architecture and landscapes
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff providing excellent guided tours
• Great experience for families with kids

Visitors can expect an immersive journey into the past and a memorable educational experience while exploring the rich heritage of the Pullman neighborhood.

William W. Powers State Recreation Area is a stunning state park located in Chicago, IL. This park offers a range of activities such as hiking and more. Visitors can enjoy various amenities including barbecue grills, picnic tables, and public toilets.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at the park. Some key points from the reviews include:

• Beautiful place for family outings with a great atmosphere and safety measures.
• Great for fishing, picnics, and family reunions with multiple celebration spots available.
• Hidden gem with excellent fishing, hiking, and relaxing environment.
• Perfect for enjoying nature, wildlife viewing, fishing, and fun activities like playgrounds.

With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 582 reviews, William W. Powers State Recreation Area is a top choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

National Park is a beloved outdoor destination in Morton Grove, offering a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, it's clear that customers have had positive experiences at this park.

• Visitors appreciate the park's Wheelchair-accessible car park and Wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it inclusive for all guests.
• The park boasts amenities such as a Baseball field, Tennis court, Picnic tables, Public toilets, Slides, and Swings, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
• Families with children find the park to be kid-friendly with a Playground that keeps the little ones entertained.

Whether you're looking to relax in nature, play a game of baseball, or have a picnic with loved ones, National Park has something for everyone. Visit today and see why customers rave about this picturesque outdoor oasis.

Palmisano Park Natural Area is a nature preserve located in Chicago, offering a peaceful escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy various activities like hiking and appreciate the landscape with their children, making it a family-friendly destination. The park features paved walking paths, metal bridges, and a quarry where guests can engage in catch-and-release fishing while observing ducks and geese.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

• Unique park built on a former quarry and landfill with stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
• Great place for relaxation, working out, fishing, and enjoying nature with free yoga classes offered in the summer.
• A hidden gem in the city with beautiful natural landscapes and peaceful ambiance.
• Perfect spot for a nice walk to get some exercise and amazing views both during the day and at night.

Chicago Portage National Historic Site is a renowned nature preserve situated in Forest View, Illinois. With a solid rating of 4.5 stars from 176 reviews, this site is highly favored by visitors for various reasons.

• I really love this spot. There is usually enough people that I feel safe and not too many people that I'm annoyed. Good for bikes or walks.
• TICKS!!! DO NOT GO OFF TRAIL. There are American dog ticks at this forest. I am begging you to please check yourself for ticks if you attend here. Same if you walk your dog. Despite this, it's absolutely gorgeous here and free of litter.
• I love it here! The trails are always clear and it's never too busy. Great area for photos as well. Perfect for quick walks to get some exercise in.
• A hidden gem, great views and trails here. Very serene and peaceful, especially with the cut off portion of the Desplaines river. Walking where Chicago most likely got its name puts things into perspective.

Visitors can enjoy hiking on clearly marked trails, picnic tables for a relaxing break, and ensure accessibility with wheelchair-friendly amenities. If you're looking for a serene outdoor experience where nature prevails, Chicago Portage National Historic Site awaits your visit.

McKinley Park Natural Area is a stunning nature preserve located in Chicago. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat from the bustling city while taking in the beauty of nature. The park offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walks or runs, amidst breathtaking natural views.

With a perfect rating of 5.0 stars based on 8 reviews, customers have shared their positive experiences at McKinley Park Natural Area. Here are a few key points from their feedback:

• Great mini-getaway from the big city.
• Beautiful resource in a diverse neighborhood.
• Amazing nature views in the city.

These reviews highlight the park's appeal to those seeking a peaceful escape into nature within an urban environment. Whether visitors are looking to explore, exercise, or simply unwind, McKinley Park Natural Area offers a serene haven for all.

The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park offers a serene escape in the midst of bustling Chicago. Visitors can enjoy a Wheelchair-accessible entrance and bring their furry friends as Dogs are allowed on the premises. The park is perfect for families with Good for kids amenities and provides a peaceful setting to take in the Chicago skyline.

Customer Reviews:

• Thoroughly enjoyed biking through the park all week long. What a beautiful area.
• This is a quiet little spot amongst the hustle and bustle of the city. Also bonus! There is a bike rental rack located here as well.
• Great place to take a pic of the beautiful Chicago skyline at night.

Horner Park Natural Area is a stunning nature preserve located in Chicago, IL. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including hiking, making it a perfect destination for a day out in nature. The park is kid-friendly with kid-friendly hikes, making it suitable for families looking to explore the outdoors.

Customer reviews rave about the park, highlighting a few key points:

• Beautifully landscaped refuge along the Chicago River
• Delightful walk shaded by trees with scenic river views
• Great trail for walking, running, biking, and picnics
• Serene space with well-designed trails and multiple sports facilities

Overall, Horner Park Natural Area is a phenomenal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, this park has something for everyone.

Calumet Beach Dunes Natural Area in Chicago, IL is a serene nature preserve that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With open 24 hours every day of the week, nature lovers can explore the trails, relax on the beach, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding dunes at any time.

The reviews for Calumet Beach Dunes Natural Area speak for themselves:

• Scenic nature trails at the west end
• Family-friendly beach area
• Free parking available

Visitors like A. Google User and Rachel Arias - Tripp III highly recommend this natural area, praising its beauty and family-friendly environment. So, if you're looking to reconnect with nature and unwind in a peaceful setting, the Calumet Beach Dunes Natural Area is the perfect destination for you.

Washington Park Natural Area is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Chicago, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This Park provides a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts, including Hiking trails that showcase the area's stunning natural beauty.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Washington Park Natural Area, giving it a perfect 5.0 rating. Some key points from their reviews include:

• Very impressive natural beauty for being smack in the middle of the city.
• Great spot for birdwatching with a variety of bird species spotted.
• Good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes.

Visitors like Thomas Gaertig and Willie Wade have highlighted the park's beauty and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature in the urban landscape. Whether you're a hiker, birdwatcher, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Washington Park Natural Area has something for everyone.

La Rabida National Forest is a breathtaking natural oasis located in Chicago, IL. This serene retreat offers a variety of services and features for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking to take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful surroundings or have a picnic with your family, La Rabida has something for everyone.

The reviews speak for themselves:

• Perfect spot for a family outing with kids.
• Relaxing beachside experience.
• Great place to catch the sunrise.
• Peaceful and calming environment.

With a stellar rating of 4.6, La Rabida National Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem today!

Columbus Park Natural Area is a beloved nature preserve located in Chicago, Illinois. Visitors appreciate the wheelchair-accessible entrance making it convenient for all to enjoy. Families with children will find it good for kids.

The park's clean and spacious environment has left a positive impression on many visitors. Some key points from customer reviews include:

• I like how clean and big the park is.
• Absolutely beautiful place.
• Great spot for outdoor activities.

These reviews reflect the overall rating of 4.8 stars by satisfied customers who have visited Columbus Park Natural Area. With its natural beauty and accessible amenities, this natural area is a must-visit for nature lovers in the Chicago area.

Nichols Park Natural Area is a serene nature preserve nestled in Chicago, IL. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll through the park.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

• Great park for walking, with a lovely meadow to explore.
• Perfect spot for a family walk, especially on sunny days.
• Beautiful wildflower meadow to admire.
• A small yet charming pocket of nature within the city.

Discover the beauty of Nichols Park Natural Area and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.