This IL State Park Is Among Most Popular In The Country This Year

ILLINOIS — When it comes to jaw-dropping natural sights, Illinois isn't the first place to come to mind for most. But a new finding determined Starved Rock State Park is among the most popular state parks in the country.

Conde Nast Traveler pulled Google Maps data from state parks from coast to coast to determine which are most popular this year. Ten parks, in states including California, Texas and Florida, were named.

Located in Oglesby, Starved Rock is characterized by the 18 canyons within its 2,630 acres and more than 13 miles of hiking trails. In 1911, it became the second state park to be established in Illinois — today, the most-visited one.

Nestled next to the Illinois River, Starved Rock is within a two-hour drive from downtown Chicago, making it an easy weekend getaway for nature-centric activities.

This is what the magazine had to say about the popular Illinois hiking spot:

"From its scenic views over the Illinois River to its 18 canyons, this park is a unique spot to visit all year round. You'll be surrounded by water (although no swimming is allowed in the park) thanks to the many waterfalls and river, and it's a great spot for hiking, exploring, camping, and spotting wildlife; during the winter, you should be able to see the occasional bald eagle. The canyons with their towering sandstone walls are particularly worth viewing, and there are plenty of overlooks in the park for taking in the surrounding nature."

See which other state parks were found to be among the most popular here.