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Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation

Get Outside in Downstate Illinois

There's so much to discover when it comes to the outdoors in Downstate Illinois! From hiking and biking to berry picking and golfing, there's something for everyone. As you’ve probably noticed by now, we cover 21 counties in Downstate Illinois. That makes us the largest tourism bureau in the state, but it also makes us one of the most diverse regions because each community has something unique that they’re known for. Let us shine a spotlight on each county that makes up this wonderful area. 

Bigard's Strawberry Patch and Peach Orchard

 Newton, Illinois
Stop by for fresh strawberries May-June, and peaches from July-August....more!

Embarras River Tourism Council

 Newton, Illinois
The Embarras River and Jasper County call themselves home to some of Downstate Illinois's greatest attractions....more!

Illinois Wildlife Connections

 Newton, Illinois
There are 4,000 acres of deer and turkey hunting with a comfortable year-round 7 room lodge for hunting, meeti...more!

Newton Aquatic Center

 Newton, Illinois
SWIM - $4 (Ages 4 and over) WATER AEROBICS-$4 EACH SESSION OR SEASON SWIM PASS...more!

Newton Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area

 Newton, Illinois
22 miles of hiking, cross-country skiing, and horse trails; five mile bike trail, waterfowl hunting, archery, turke...more!

The Outdoor Sportsman's Lodge

 Newton, Illinois
Guided fishing and boat rental. 6 cabins available....more!

Peterson Park

 Newton, Illinois
Aquatic Center, tennis, basketball, batting cages, mini golf, sand volleyball, picnic shelters, playground, disk go...more!

Prairie Ridge State Natural Area

 Newton, Illinois
Rare grassland wildlife, bird watching, 3,800 acres...more!

Sam Parr State Fish & Wildlife Area

 Newton, Illinois
Fishing lake, horse trails, hiking trails, picnic area, camping and 840 huntable acres. RV and tent sites....more!

Sparks Lazy Acres Campground

 Newton, Illinois
Sparks Lazy Acres is a nice quiet place to camp. A mile east of Newton Lake. Our 28 sites have water/sewer/electric...more!

Downstate Illinois Events

Downstate Illinois Events

Explore Our Event Calendar
Whether you’re looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing.
Travel Ideas

Travel Ideas

Check Out Our Blog
From outdoor recreation and adventure to foodies and family fun, we have the trip ideas to plan the perfect vacation.
Road Trip Itineraries

Road Trip Itineraries

21 Counties made for Road Trips
Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
New Genesis Wrestling presents: Endless Winter

New Genesis Wrestling presents: Endless Winter

January 18, 2025 @ 9:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Leu Civic Center | Mascoutah, IL
Belleville Flea Market

Belleville Flea Market

 January 18, 2025 - January 19, 2025 @ 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center | Belleville, IL
Grand Allusion: A Tribute to Styx at the Hett

Grand Allusion: A Tribute to Styx at the Hett

 January 24, 2025 @ 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Russel E. and Fern M. Hettenhausen Center for the Arts | Lebanon, IL

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