State Parks and National Parks

Chain O' Lakes State Park

Chain O' Lakes State Park borders three natural lakes and the Fox River, which connects to seven additional lakes. The twisting 480-mile shoreline in this 6,000-acre recreation area provides access to 65,000 acres of water.

Because of the marshiness of much of the shore, anglers work from boats or piers to catch muskie, northern pike and largemouth bass.

The park has 238 campsites for tent and trailer use, and even offers a rent-a-camp option with three cabins and a primitive tent site.

There are several miles of hiking trails. One trail is accessible to wheelchairs. There are also bike and equestrian trails. Boat rentals are available.

Winter visitors cross-country ski, camp and fish through the ice in this park in northeastern Illinois.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources.