Enjoy the Central Illinois great outdoors
Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors, giving both your brain and body a much-needed dose of sunshine. Here are a few ideas to kickstart your next adventure.
Meadowbrook Park
Enjoy walking or biking in all seasons at Meadowbrook Park, located on the southwest corner of the Champaign-Urbana area. Three miles of paved trails make this park ideal for walking, jogging, and biking. A unique feature of the park is the Wandell Sculpture Garden, where you can find interesting art while also enjoying nature’s natural beauty.
Lake of the Woods
Located just 10 miles outside of campus in Mahomet, Illinois, Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve is a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of campus life. The preserve stretches almost 900 acres along the Sangamon River. Well-known attractions include the Museum of the Grand Prairie, Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden, and Lake of the Woods Golf Course.
Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, Lake of the Woods has it all. Catch various fish, including Bluegill, Carp, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Muskie, Tiger Muskie, White Crappie, and Yellow Bullhead. If fishing isn’t your thing, enjoy the water on a boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Miles of paved trails are great for biking or go off-trail to explore the wooded paths — perfect for a stroll or trail run.
Homer Lake Forest Preserve
Hike until your heart’s content on the various hiking trails at Homer Lake Forest Preserve, just 15 miles east of campus town. Trails range from 0.15 miles to 4.6 miles and stretch along Homer Lake, Salt Fork River, and the surrounding wooded area.
Activities vary for enjoyment every season of the year — no matter the Illinois weather. Soak up the summer sun while paddling across Homer Lake in a kayak. Fishing is also welcome.
Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Allerton Park and Retreat Center, with its rich history, is an extremely popular spot for Illini, past and present. Built as the private estate of artist and philanthropist Robert Henry Allerton in 1900, Allerton Park and Retreat Center was donated to the University of Illinois in 1946. It has hosted many weddings as a romantic spot for “I do’s.”
It is appreciated for a wide variety of activities and programs, including retreats, lodging, concerts, and more. The park’s beautiful gardens and surrounding wooded and prairie landscape are a perfect place to take a walk in the fresh air.
Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
A beach in Illinois? Check out Clinton Lake State Recreation Area. The 1400-acre lake is accompanied by a 1,000-foot sand beach, open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The lake is also a great place for fishing, boating, or other water activities.
Walk along the beach or surrounding areas on the hiking trails, ranging from moderate to difficult. The beautiful hills of North Fork Trail feel like Arkansas or somewhere out of state — and gorgeous lake views, especially when the water lilies are in bloom, make Clinton Lake worth the 45-minute drive.
Now get outside and enjoy the Central Illinois’ great outdoors!