Few People Know There's A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Illinois Town
By Linze Rice|Published May 15, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
There are tons of amazing outdoor activities in Illinois, and spending a day wandering the trails or casting off at a state park is certainly one of the best. Many of us have a go-to park where we like to get some fresh air, but there’s nothing quite like hitting the road and discovering something new. With idyllic spots for fishing, boating, hiking, horse riding, camping, and picnicking, this little-known small town park in Sumner, Illinois just may be your next nature adventure.
Sumner is a small town located in Lawrence County in Southeastern Illinois. With a population of just over 2,600 residents, it is a true example of Midwestern country living. It's filled with a mix of historic buildings and family-owned businesses, like local favorite Dairy Dee — which is a great place to stop for a treat after a long day in the outdoors.
Sumner was called "Black Jack" when it was originally founded as a railroad stop in the 1850s, later changing to the last name of resident Benjamin Sumner.
Just outside the residential and commercial areas of Sumner is Red Hills State Park, a little-known state park that is home to some of the state's best hiking trails, wildflower fields, picnicking areas, and fishing spots. Accessed just off U.S. 50, the park boasts 967 acres of serene land consisting of lush forests, breezy lakes, and seas of native plants thriving in open fields.
The park is home to several great features, like scenic views from the highest point between St. Louis and Cincinattii — Red Hills. It also has six playgrounds and three picnic shelters that can accommodate large groups.
There are a number of trails that guide you through 8 miles of the park, whether you'd like to walk your leashed dog, hike, jog, bike, or trot by horse.
The Robin, Valley Springs, Indian Treaty, and Tulip trails loop is about 3 miles long and is ideal for birdwatchers. Take note that these paths are hilly and considered moderately difficult.
With more than 100 campsites on the ground, including cabins, tent sites, equestrian camping, and access points for vehicle hook-ups, there are plenty of options to turn the exploring into the perfect nature weekend getaway.
So, would you hit the trails at this small town park in Sumner, Illinois? What outdoor activity do you like to do most when you’re at a state or national park? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the Red Hills State Park website. While you’re in Lawrence County, consider also checking out this middle-of-nowhere drive-in for a classic burger and fries!
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