Top state parks
State ParkCahokia
State ParkStarved Rock State Park
State ParkWhite Pines Forest State Park
State ParkTrail of Tears State Forest
State ParkKankakee River State Park
State ParkMississippi Palisades State Park
State ParkLowden State Park
State ParkMatthiessen State Park
State ParkCache River State Natural Area
State ParkLincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site
State ParkApple River Canyon State Park
State ParkGiant City State Park
State Parks by county
All state parks (48)
Sky = estimated Bortle class (1 darkest – 9 brightest).
Map
How to photograph state parks
State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.
- Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
- Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
- Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
- Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
- Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.
Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.