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Kickapoo State Recreation Area

Kickapoo State Recreation Area Overview


Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a beautiful natural area located in Vermilion County, Illinois. It is situated about 10 miles northwest of Danville and covers an area of 2,842 acres. The park is named after the Kickapoo tribe, who once inhabited the area. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the main attractions of Kickapoo State Recreation Area is its beautiful lake, which covers an area of 221 acres. The lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can rent boats, canoes, and kayaks from the park’s concession stand, or bring their own. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and bluegill, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

In addition to the lake, Kickapoo State Recreation Area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails. The park has over 12 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails wind through the park’s forests, prairies, and wetlands, offering visitors a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty. The park also has several picnic areas, playgrounds, and campsites, making it a great place for families to spend the day or weekend.

Visitors to Kickapoo State Recreation Area can also learn about the area’s history and natural resources. The park has several interpretive programs and exhibits, including a nature center and a historic one-room schoolhouse. The nature center offers educational programs and displays about the park’s wildlife, plants, and geology. The schoolhouse, which dates back to the 1800s, provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s past.

Overall, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With its beautiful lake, hiking trails, and educational programs, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is definitely worth a visit.

Visitor’s Experience


Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination located in Illinois that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy a day of fishing, hiking, and picnicking, while couples can take a romantic stroll through the park’s scenic trails. Friends can spend a fun-filled day kayaking or canoeing, while solo visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature.

For families, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is an ideal destination for a day trip. The park offers several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it easy to enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery. Children will love the playgrounds and the opportunity to explore the park’s trails and waterways. Fishing is also a popular activity for families, with several species of fish available in the park’s lakes and streams.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to do at Kickapoo State Recreation Area. The park’s trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Couples can also rent a canoe or kayak and explore the park’s waterways, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

Friends looking for an adventure will find plenty to do at Kickapoo State Recreation Area. The park’s lakes and streams are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The park also offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Solo visitors looking for a peaceful retreat will find Kickapoo State Recreation Area to be the perfect destination. The park’s quiet atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it an ideal place to relax and unwind. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the park’s trails, enjoy a picnic lunch, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The best times of year to visit Kickapoo State Recreation Area are in the spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the park’s foliage is at its most beautiful. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities without the heat and humidity of summer or the cold of winter.

In conclusion, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Families, couples, friends, and solo visitors can all enjoy the park’s scenic trails, lakes, and streams. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery, Kickapoo State Recreation Area is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

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