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Apple River Canyon State Park

Apple River, IL U.S.A.

8763 East Canyon Road
Apple River, IL 61001
U.S.A.
815-745-3302
Open Year-Round No Entry Fee Charged
State Park Information

Apple River Canyon State Park is the only place in the Midwest to view the delicate bird's-eye primrose. The rare flower blooms in spring, usually in April.

The park's high bluffs are home to bald eagles, cliff swallows and wild turkeys.

The 297-acre park has five trails, each about a mile long.

The 50 campsites, all without electricity, can accommodate tents or RVs. Camping is available between April 15 and November 1. There are no showers. Winter camping is permitted in the Youth Area.

Anglers try for smallmouth bass. When the state budget permits, the DNR stock the river with trout in the spring. Trout season opens the first Saturday in April.

Outdoor Activities
Activities Column 1 Activities Column 2 Activities Column 3
Camping available Freshwater Fishing available Visitor Center not available
Hiking available Saltwater Fishing not available Children's Activities not available
Backpacking not available Guided Tours not available
Rock Climbing not available Scenic Drives not available
Horse Trails not available Big Game Hunting not available Picnicking available
Wheelchair Trails/Ramps available Upland Hunting not available Off-Road Vehicles not available
Waterfowl Hunting not available Lodging Nearby available
Restaurants Nearby available
Canoeing not available
Kayaking not available Cross-Country Skiing not available
Rafting not available Downhill Skiing not available Bird-Watching available
Beaches not available Snowboarding not available Nature Viewing available
Boat Launch not available Snowshoeing not available Historic Sites not available
Snowmobiling not available
Ice Skating not available
Mountain Biking not available Winter Camping available
Touring not available

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

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