Filled with fascinating rock formations, overlooks, waterways, and waterfalls, Illinois’ scenery is hard to beat. For those of us who are lucky enough to live here, we know about the abundance of beauty and natural wonders in Illinois that can be found throughout the Prairie State and can be seen for free! Here are seven of those natural wonders in Illinois that can be viewed without opening your wallets.

1. Cache River Natural Area, Belknap
Cache River State Natural Area, 930 Sunflower Ln, Belknap, IL 62908, USA
Ed Reschke/Stone via Getty Images
This natural area's diverse acreage is home to four distinct ecological systems, but the most striking area of the reserve is where you can find giant ancient cypress trees with buttresses measuring up to 40 feet in diameter. Growing out of a swamp, some of these trees are over 1,000 years old and a hike here will make you feel like you're in another world. The Cache River Natural Area is one of the best natural wonders in Illinois! .
2. Ferne Clyffe State Park, Goreville
Ferne Clyffe State Park, 90 Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL 62939, USA
snikeltrut/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
This state park has over 2,400 acres and is considered one of the most scenic natural areas in the state. Although it's filled with bluffs, rock formations, and forest, it's actually the Ferne Clyffe Waterfalls that are the biggest draw for hikers. Read more to hike to the waterfall and visit this beautiful place in Illinois..
3. Garden of the Gods, Herod
Garden of the Gods, Herod, IL 62947, USA
Buckeye92/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Famous for its otherworldly rock formations, Garden of the Gods is home to outstanding hikes, camping, and views unlike anywhere else in the state. This 3,300-acre reserve is part of the Shawnee National Forest and is a true natural wonder. If you’re in Herod and want to see the Garden of the Gods, visit this free place near me!

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4. Inspiration Point, Wolf Lake
Inspiration Point, Nauvoo, IL 62354, USA
Curtis Abert/Flickr
You'll find inspiring views of the Mississippi River and Big Muddy Riverbottom atop this 300-foot limestone cliff. Getting there does involve a hike of 0.7 miles with elevation, but the panoramic views are so worth the climb! This is such a fun thing to do for free in Illinois!
5. Giant City State Park, Makanda
Giant City State Park, 235 Giant City Rd, Makanda, IL 62958, USA
snikeltrut/ iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Giant City State Park is known for its giant sandstone bluffs and rock formations and it has numerous trails to explore them. One such trail leads through a labyrinth of towering rocks, creating a hiking experience that's fun for both kids and adults alike.
6. Bell Smith Springs, Ozark
Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area, Bell Smith Springs Rd, Ozark, IL 62972, USA
Matt Tomlinson/AllTrails
Canyons, sandstone cliffs, streams, and lush vegetation are abundant in this part of the Shawnee National Forest. Bell Smith Springs has a trail system that leads to many marvelous rock formations, including a 150-foot natural bridge! To learn about this natural wonder in Illinois, read all about it!
7. Pomona Natural Bridge, Pomona
Pomona Natural Bridge, Natural Bridge Rd, Pomona, IL 62975, USA
Larry Senalik/Flickr
The Pomona Natural Bridge is a stone arch that measures 90 feet in length. You can view this natural wonder via a short 0.3-mile loop trail. You can walk below the structure or, if you're feeling adventurous, use the metal bar ladder (with caution) to climb to the top for a different vantage point. Learn more about hiking to this natural wonder in Illinois.

This list isn’t even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to natural wonders in Illinois, but it should give you a good start on places to visit if you haven’t already been. What other natural wonders in Illinois would you add? Please list them in the comments below!

Looking for more great natural wonders to visit? Check out these natural attractions in Illinois!

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More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Illinois

Megan McDonald | May 24, 2023

What is the famous natural wonder in Illinois?

One of the most famous natural wonders in Illinois is the Garden of the Gods, located in the Shawnee National Forest. This stunning rock formation attracts visitors from near and far with its unique and breathtaking beauty. Over millions of years, the forces of nature sculpted towering sandstone cliffs, rugged bluffs, and balanced rock formations, creating a mesmerizing landscape. Walking along the designated trails, visitors can marvel at the intricate rock formations, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forests, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of this geological marvel. The Garden of the Gods is not only a natural wonder but also a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers who come to witness the magnificence of nature's artistry.

What are the best natural wonders in Illinois? 

Illinois may not be world renowned for its grand natural wonders, but it still boasts several captivating sites that showcase the state's natural beauty. 

Here are some of the best natural wonders in Illinois:

  • Starved Rock State Park: Located along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park is a scenic gem with towering sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and panoramic views. Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, witness seasonal waterfalls, and enjoy breathtaking vistas from the park's iconic Starved Rock overlook.
  • Shawnee National Forest: Covering large portions of southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers diverse natural wonders such as the Garden of the Gods, with its stunning rock formations, and the awe-inspiring Rim Rock Trail, which winds along dramatic cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the forest.
  • Mississippi Palisades State Park: Situated along the Mississippi River, this park showcases dramatic limestone bluffs, caves, and lush forests. Visitors can hike the park's trails, go rock climbing, or explore the unique geological formations and stunning river views.
  • Cave-in-Rock State Park: Located on the Ohio River, this park is home to a massive limestone cave that has attracted explorers for centuries. The cave and its surrounding cliffs provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's geological history.
  • Matthiessen State Park: Adjacent to Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park offers its own natural wonders, including stunning canyons, waterfalls, and unique geological formations. The park's trails lead visitors through lush forests and reveal hidden wonders at every turn.

 

While Illinois may not have the towering mountains or grand canyons of other states, these natural wonders showcase the state's diverse landscapes and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, exploration, and appreciation of its natural beauty.

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Explore Illinois

Featured Addresses
930 Sunflower Ln, Belknap, IL 62908, USA
Goreville Road, Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL 62939, USA
Garden of the Gods Road, Garden of the Gods Rd, Illinois, USA
Larue Rd, Wolf Lake, IL 62998, USA
Giant City State Park, 235 Giant City Rd, Makanda, IL 62958, USA
Bell Smith Springs Road, Bell Smith Springs Rd, Illinois 62972, USA
Natural Bridge Road, Natural Bridge Rd, Pomona, IL 62975, USA