Lincoln Trail State Park is named after the trail Abraham Lincoln’s family followed on the way from Indiana to Illinois in 1831.

The state acquired the first 31 acres of Lincoln Trail State Park in 1936. Today, the park has grown to have 1,023 acres.

Tourists to the Windy City will have an even more impressive view of Lake Michigan from the top of the planned 196-foot Ferris wheel that will replace the current 147-foot wheel, which was installed at Navy Pier in 1995.

From zip-lining in the Shawnee National Forest to amusement parks in Lake County, Illinois offers a number of ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Each year, more than 800,000 visitors come to Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, a gorgeous 3,000 acre site located on the west shore of Carlyle Lake. Main features include a swimming pool and opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, hunting, picnicking, bird watching and hiking.