Best Picnic Spots in Central Illinois

It's a beautiful sunny day, warm and refreshing after the long cold winter. What better way to take advantage than to spend the afternoon getting back to nature. In central Illinois the picnic spots, hiking trails and beautiful scenery may be harder to find than some places, but once you do its worth the work.

Lake Shelbyville in Shelbyville Illinois has much to offer. Swimming holes, moderate hiking trails, and enough room for anyone to host an afternoon snack. At anytime you will find many other people out enjoying the scenery of the beautiful lake. For nature enthusiasts there are a wide variety of birds, fish and other wildlife. Lake Shelbyville is one of the best spots to satisfy all of your cabin fever symptoms.

Homer Lake may be a little drive. Winding down back country roads to get there. Homer Lake has some of the most amazing birds, cranes flying overhead and perched all around the lake. You may not swim at homer lake but the fishing is good. Trails there are for all people, beginner, intermediate and advanced.

If you really want adventure leave early and take a drive to Turley Run State Park in Indiana. There is nothing this park doesn't offer. Club houses, bird museum and picnic spots with the best views. The hiking trails wind wrap through mountains, literally leading you through cave after cave. Depending on what trail you choose you may find old homes filled with rich history, or walk down suspended bridges. Once your done your hike you can head over to the stables for a horse back ride to wind out the day.

These are the best places in central Illinois (bordering Indiana). I'm sure everyone can find something to enjoy at one of these spots.