Discover the Natural Beauty of Kankakee River State Park
Explore Kankakee River State Park: A Natural Retreat with Scenic Trails, Water Activities, and Diverse Wildlife in Illinois.
Kankakee River State Park is a stunning gem in Illinois, offering diverse outdoor activities, scenic views, and a rich ecosystem for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Kankakee River State Park
- 5314 IL-102, Bourbonnais, Illinois, 60914, US
- +1815-933-1383
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8 pm
- Friday 7 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring your own kayak or canoe to enjoy a peaceful paddle on the Kankakee River.
- Don't forget to pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
- Check the local weather before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike, as some trails can be uneven.
Getting There
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Car
From Chicago, take I-90 E/I-94 E towards Indiana. Merge onto I-55 S toward St. Louis. Take exit 288 for IL-102 toward Bourbonnais. Follow IL-102 S for about 10 miles until you reach Kankakee River State Park at 5314 IL-102, Bourbonnais, IL 60914. The drive should take approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
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Public Transportation
Take the Metra South Shore Line train from downtown Chicago to the Hammond station. From Hammond, transfer to the Pace bus #386 (Bourbonnais route) towards Kankakee. Get off at the 'Kankakee River State Park' stop at 5314 IL-102. The total travel time can take approximately 3-4 hours, including train and bus transfers. Be sure to check the current bus schedules for any changes or updates.
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Carpool/Ride-sharing
Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for convenience. You can request a ride from your location in Northern Illinois directly to Kankakee River State Park. The cost may vary based on your starting point, but expect to pay between $40-$100 for a one-way trip from areas like Chicago or Joliet.
Discover more about Kankakee River State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Landmark Edwin Ruthven Willard Home and Office
15.5 km
Discover the history and charm of the Edwin Ruthven Willard Home and Office, a captivating historical landmark in Wilmington, Illinois, filled with stories from the past.
Riverview Historic District
16.8 km
Experience the charm of Riverview Historic District, where history and beautiful Victorian architecture combine to create a picturesque travel destination.
Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve
24.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies, a nature preserve in Illinois, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and peaceful retreats.
Cardiff Town State Historic Site
28.8 km
Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of Cardiff Town State Historic Site, a ghost town in Dwight, Illinois, perfect for history lovers.
Briscoe Mounds Historic Site
29.2 km
Explore the ancient burial mounds and rich Native American heritage at Briscoe Mounds Historic Site in Channahon, Illinois.
Potawatomi Village Historic Site
35.3 km
Explore the Potawatomi Village Historic Site in Joliet, Illinois, and discover the rich heritage of Native American history surrounded by tranquility.
The Haley Mansion
35.6 km
Explore The Haley Mansion, a historic event venue in Joliet, Illinois, where Victorian elegance meets modern sophistication for unforgettable experiences.
The Grand Ballroom
35.6 km
Experience the grandeur of The Grand Ballroom in Joliet, Illinois, where elegance meets modern convenience for unforgettable events.
Joilet,IL Metra-Amtrak Union Station
35.6 km
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Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory
35.7 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory, a tranquil oasis in Joliet, Illinois, perfect for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Joliet Historical Preservation
35.7 km
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Joliet Slammers Baseball
35.8 km
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Prison City Vintage
35.8 km
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Rialto Square Theatre
35.8 km
Experience the magic of live performances at the historic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois, a true cultural gem of the Midwest.
Will County Historic Preservation Commission
35.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Exploration Station
13.2 km
Explore, learn, and play at Exploration Station, a vibrant children's museum in Bourbonnais, Illinois, designed for young adventurers and their families.
Perry Farm Park
13.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and family-friendly attractions of Perry Farm Park in Bourbonnais, Illinois, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Gemini Giant
15.8 km
Discover the whimsical Gemini Giant in Wilmington, Illinois, a must-see roadside attraction that embodies the spirit of Route 66 and Americana.
B Harley Bradley House
16.6 km
Discover the B Harley Bradley House, a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School architecture, in the heart of Kankakee, Illinois.
Braidwood Zoo
17.6 km
Explore Braidwood Zoo, a charming family-friendly destination packed with diverse animals and engaging experiences in Braidwood, Illinois.
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
18.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, a remarkable nature preserve in Illinois perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.
Channahon State Park
30.0 km
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Blues Brothers Copmobile
30.8 km
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Grant Park Community Park
30.8 km
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Nowell Park
33.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Nowell Park in Joliet, Illinois, a perfect spot for families and nature lovers to unwind and enjoy outdoor activities.
Jacob Henry Mansion
35.4 km
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Mayor Art Schultz Park
35.5 km
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Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park
36.0 km
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Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66
36.0 km
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Joliet Area Historical Museum
36.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Final Cut Steakhouse
32.1 km
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Louisiana Barbeque
33.0 km
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Heroes West Sports Grill
34.2 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
34.3 km
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Ta Canijo
34.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Ta Canijo in Joliet - where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.
Whiskey River Bar & Grill Joliet
35.3 km
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Louie's Waffle House
35.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Louie's Waffle House in Joliet - where delicious breakfasts and warm hospitality meet.
Cherry Hill Cafe
35.4 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Cherry Hill Cafe in Joliet - where quality meets comfort.
Chicago Street Pub
35.8 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Chicago Street Pub in Joliet - where great food meets warm hospitality in a lively atmosphere.
Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill
35.8 km
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El Camaleon Bar & Grill
35.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at El Camaleon Bar & Grill in Joliet – where every meal is a celebration.
CUT 158 Chophouse
35.9 km
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Arkas Restaurant Group
35.9 km
Discover exceptional dining at Arkas Restaurant Group in Joliet, where local flavors meet innovative cuisine for an unforgettable experience.
Mousa
35.9 km
Discover the essence of Greek cuisine at Mousa in Joliet—where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
Vela’s Restaurant & Lounge
35.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Love It Again
34.7 km
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ILLNOIZ ENTERTAINMENT
35.0 km
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Clothingus
35.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion at Clothingus, Joliet's top clothing store offering a diverse selection of stylish apparel for every occasion.
Greg Spiess Antiques
35.5 km
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The Juncture
35.6 km
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It Is Amazing
35.8 km
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ARTESANO STORE LLC
35.8 km
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Ready Set Zoe
35.9 km
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Card Pop USA
35.9 km
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Uncle Joe's Candy
35.9 km
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Latino Illusion Cano
35.9 km
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Amalove Boutique
35.9 km
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Artisan Florist
35.9 km
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SEE Me Apparel
36.0 km
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Shop 1928
36.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eden Bar and Grill
33.6 km
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Saloon 2
35.1 km
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Mid Town Tap
36.0 km
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Judge's Bar - Joliet
36.0 km
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Longshots
36.2 km
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Sidelines Sports Bar
36.2 km
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Crybabies Tap
36.3 km
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Industry Tap House
37.0 km
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Thirty-Buck
37.4 km
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Johnny's On Hickory
37.7 km
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Steel City Saloon
37.8 km
Discover the lively Steel City Saloon in Joliet, Illinois - a top dart bar with a vibrant atmosphere, delicious drinks, and friendly competition.
Bobby's Tap
38.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bobby's Tap, Joliet's premier gay bar, known for its inclusive vibe and lively entertainment.
Crow's Nest Tavern
38.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Crow's Nest Tavern, a local favorite in Joliet, Illinois, offering affordable drinks and a welcoming vibe for all travelers.
Izzy's LLC
38.9 km
Experience the thrill of sports at Izzy's LLC, Joliet's favorite sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere for all!
Double J Sports Bar
39.0 km
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