Today’s adventure is all about the night sky, and one of the best places to enjoy the night sky in Illinois is Middle Fork River Forest Preserve. Mark down the best stargazing in Illinois on your travel to-do list, especially if you keep tabs on meteor showers and other sky events. Less really means more when it comes to light in the sky.

Illinois has lots of activities to do day and night, but what if you prefer the quiet stillness of a night outdoors? Down at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, you'll find plenty of that at this official Dark Sky Park.
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The International Dark Sky Association is one of the big authorities on light pollution and its effects on wildlife and the world around us. For Illinois, there aren't many areas that make the dark sky cut that aren't on private property.
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Middle Fork River Forest Preserve was named an official International Dark Sky Park in 2018, making it the only one in the whole state. As you might expect, the night sky views here are simply stunning.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google

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Even if you don't have long-exposure photo equipment, visiting during a night sky event can be just as breathtaking. No more squinting to see shooting stars!
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google
The waterfowl area is open around the clock for night sky viewing, but you can also get great photos in while camping at the Harry L. Swartz campground. A stargazing camping adventure sounds like a great thing to plan around a meteor shower!
Shannon Range/Google
Whether you plan to stay overnight or just visit for photos, the sky is putting a show on every clear night. Remember to look up at the sky every once in a while; it could put things in perspective.
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Thankfully in Illinois, there are plenty of attractions around Illinois for space fans of all ages.

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Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, 3485 County Rd 2700 E, Penfield, IL 61862, USA