Nine Illinois state parks recorded over 1 million visitors each
J B Pritzker, Governor of Illinois in United States, has announced that more than 41 million people visited state parks and historic sites in the state in 2024, marking the highest number in over a decade.
In a press statement, the Illinois Tourism Office says that this increase follows targetted efforts by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Illinois Office of Tourism to improve facilities and promote the state as a travel destination.
It adds that in 2024, nine Illinois state parks recorded over 1 million visitors each. Starved Rock State Park in La Salle County led with 2.4 million visitors, followed by Illinois Beach State Park in Lake County with 2 million. Hennepin Canal State Trail, which spans Rock Island, Bureau, Henry, Lee and Whiteside counties, welcomed 1.75 million visitors and many other parks recorded the similar results.
As per statement, Illinois Tourism Office says other parks that witnessed large numbers of visitors included Illini State Park, Fort Massac State Park, Giant City State Park, Moraine Hills State Park and Clinton Lake State Recreation Area.
The statement says that the most visited state historic sites in the previous year were Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, the Lincoln Tomb, Fort de Chartres, and Black Hawk State Historic Site.
J B Pritzker
“With world-class parks coupled with historic sites, it is no surprise that more visitors continue to flock to the Middle of Everything to experience all Illinois has to offer. This year’s increase in visitors reflects a growing enthusiasm to experience Illinois’ natural beauty and the positive impact our critical investments are having on our tourism,” says Pritzker.
The Illinois Tourism Office says that further renovations are underway at several sites, including the Rend Lake Resort in southern Illinois, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site in Menard County and Bishop Hill State Historic Site in Henry County. Additional projects include trail and wastewater improvements at Starved Rock State Park, sewage and electrical upgrades at Lake Murphysboro State Park, and the replacement of the boardwalk at Volo Bog Natural Area in Lake County.
According to the statement, the American tourism office says that besides renovation efforts, recent projects include a shoreline stabilisation effort at Illinois Beach State Park, the installation of electric vehicle chargers at multiple parks, the opening of Illinois’ first off-highway vehicle trail system at Sahara Woods State Recreation Area in Saline County, and the renovation of the Old State Capitol in Springfield. Other improvements include roof replacements, plumbing upgrades at park buildings and campgrounds, and the installation of kayak launches.
Kristin Richards
“Illinois parks and historic sites are key parts of our state’s growing tourism and recreation economy. It is creating world-class destinations that attract visitors from near and far by investing in our infrastructure and expanding access to outdoor experiences,” says Kristin Richards, Director, DCEO.
The Illinois Tourism Office says that IDNR operates 290 state parks and manages 56 historic sites, including recreation areas, fish and wildlife zones, forests, and memorials. Recreational activities include camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, horseback riding, swimming, wildlife watching, and snowmobiling. Many parks offer food services, gear, and visitor amenities.
Natalie Phelps Finnie
“I am thrilled that visitors are discovering and rediscovering Illinois state parks and all they have to offer. Whether it is an adventure you seek or a quiet place to clear your head, look no further than an Illinois state park or historic site,” says Natalie Phelps Finnie, Director, IDNR.
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