Experience The Great Outdoors in Vermilion County

Tucked away in East Central Illinois, about 140 miles due south of Chicago, you’ll find the hidden treasure of Danville and Vermilion County.  With over 15,000 acres of parks and over 100 miles of trails, there are more park acres per capita than any other county in Illinois.  It’s here where you’ll discover wide open prairies, lush, wooded ravines, soaring views, healing waters and exhilarating adventures at every turn.  An outdoor-lover’s paradise, visitors can choose from a variety of activities including award-winning deep-water fishing ponds, great hiking and biking trails, canoe trips down a scenic river, paddle boarding or simply enjoying a nice picnic with stunning natural vistas. 

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Some highlights in the region include Kickapoo State Park, which features 16 miles of scenic hiking trails and over 25 miles of mountain biking trails, as well as 180 campsites that are open all year long.  There is also the popular Forest Glen Preserve, which has a 72-foot tall observation tower and an 11-mile River Ridge Backpack Trail.  Also, Forest Glen Preserve is where you will find the Michael G. Reddy Arboretum, a 40-acre collection of plantings totaling over 500 species.

Other locales you won’t want to miss include the Harry “Babe” Woodyard State Natural Area which encompasses over 1200 acres and is home to 12 endangered or threatened species, and the Heron County Park that has over 50 acres of natural wetlands and includes the 30-foot Eagle View Observation Tower.  There is also the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area, which has 35 miles of marked equestrian and cross-country skiing trails and has over 50 campground sites which can accommodate horses too!

If you’re looking for something exciting and are ready to get off the beaten path, you’ve come to the right place.  Escape the ordinary and plan your next trip to Vermilion County.