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Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot

Access the natural beauty of Illinois Beach State Park, with its unique shoreline, diverse ecosystems, and recreational activities on Lake Michigan's shore.

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The Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot provides access to the diverse landscapes and recreational activities of Illinois Beach State Park, including its unique beach ridge shoreline along Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking, with convenient parking available.

A brief summary to Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot

  • Zion, Illinois, 60099, US

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the diverse landscapes of the park.
  • Pack a swimsuit and sunscreen for enjoying the swimming beaches along Lake Michigan.
  • Visit the park's website or call the park office for information on current conditions and any closures.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Sheridan Road, turn onto Wadsworth Road heading east. Continue on Wadsworth Road until you enter Illinois Beach State Park. Follow the signs for the main beach area and parking lot. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metra Union Pacific North Line to the Zion station. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Illinois Beach State Park, approximately 5 miles away. Taxi/ride-share cost: $15-25. Alternatively, you can bike from the Zion station to the park using the Zion Bike Trail.

  • Walking

    If you are already within Illinois Beach State Park, follow the marked trails and signs to the main beach area and parking lot. The distance will vary depending on your starting point within the park.

Unlock the Best of Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot

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Discover more about Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot

The Illinois Beach State Park Parking Lot serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Illinois Beach State Park, which stretches for 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan. This park is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline in Illinois, featuring dunes, marshes, and oak forests. The parking lot provides easy access to the park's many attractions, including swimming beaches, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Illinois Beach State Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities. During the summer, swimming is a popular activity, and the park provides ample parking and bathhouses with showers. Hiking enthusiasts can explore miles of trails in both the northern and southern units of the park. The southern unit features a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface, while the northern unit offers the 1.8-mile Camp Logan Trail. The park is also home to diverse plant and animal life, with over 650 species of plants recorded in the dunes area alone. Bird watching is a popular activity, and the park includes a nature preserve at its southern end. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing day by the lake, Illinois Beach State Park offers something for everyone.

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