Gorgeous National Forests in Wisconsin and Illinois to Visit on International Day of Forests

Mar 21, 2023

In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly instituted the International Day of Forests as a way to honor and raise awareness globally for the importance of all varieties and types of forests. The forests of our planet help to filter the air and water we breathe, provide vital food, shelter, and resources to both humans and wildlife, and also protect us from UV rays. Visiting forests has also shown proven benefits to improve your physical and mental health, as well as a sustainable source of energy and resources. The International Day of Forests is also an opportunity to raise awarenes for the devastating effects of industrial agriculture, logging, and mining efforts, and inform the general public about the importance of restoring forests, protecting the environment, and increasing our conservation efforts.

Today, we’re going to explore a few of the National Forests and Forest Preserves in Wisconsin, Illinois, and nearby states. We encourage you to get involved with conservation efforts, consider a more sustainable lifestyle, and get out there to appreciate nature with your friends and family!

Three wonderful forests to check out:

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Wisconsin covers more than 1 million acres of land in northern Wisconsin. Early logging efforts in the 20th century saw fit to remove the “old growth” forest. In the 1930s, however, many new trees were planted by The Civilian Conservation Corps, resulting in an absolutely lush forest with breathtaking scenery. This National Forest was originally two separate forests, but are now managed as one property by the USDA Forest Service. Travelers can enjoy a multitude of activities such as camping (some of which are pet friendly sites), hiking, berry picking (in season), hunting, fishing, cross country skiing, and even snowmobiling. Nature lovers will rejoice to observe roaming wildlife such as deer, bears, foxes, coyotes, wolves, loons, and songbirds. If you’re an angler, you’ll be excited to find trout, bass, panfish, and northern pike! The forest has a number of lakes and streams; Twentymile Creek and the headwaters of the Marengo River also provide clean water flow to Lake Superior!

White Pines Forest State Park in Mt Morris IL covers 385 acres of parklands and is the perfect place for an outdoor getaway. You’ll enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, nature photography, bird watching, archery, cross country skiing, hunting, and much more. There are more than 100 campsites and picnic areas along Pine Creek, where you’ll be able to observe wildlife, enjoy some fishing, or explore the incredible wildflowers and foliage of the area. It’s also home to the White Pines Lodge, which has 13 one room cabins, 2 four room cabins, and 1 two room cabin if you prefer less of a “rough-it” approach, and offers a dinner theatre, banquet hall, and delicious dining at the White Pines Lodge Restaurant.

Iron Oaks Forest Preserve in Olympia Fields IL is a fantastic family-friendly destination full of nature adventures, educational opportunities, and recreational activities. The forest preserve has everything from climbing walls to crate climbing challenges to a high ropes course physical challenge and so much more! In the winter, visitors can enjoy cross country skiing or snowshoeing excursions on the nature trails. There are numerous nature programs to enjoy that will put you up close and personal with the great outdoors, as well as multiple STEM based Nature Camps for kids! It’s a wonderful place to connect with our world on a personal level and learn about our environment.

Other Nature Preserves and National Forests in Illinois and Neighboring States: