Moraine Hills State Park - McHenry, Illinois

Discover the Charm of Moraine Hills State Park

Nestled in the serene landscapes of McHenry, Illinois, Moraine Hills State Park stands out as a premier destination for nature lovers and families alike. Located at 1510 S River Rd, McHenry, IL 60051, this state park offers a blend of recreational activities, scenic beauty, and accessible amenities that cater to a wide range of visitors. With an 815-385-1624 for direct contact and a wealth of information available at dnr.illinois.gov/park.morainehills., planning a visit to this magnificent park has never been easier.

Highlights and Features

Moraine Hills State Park is not just a state park; it's a comprehensive park and garden experience, a tourist attraction, and a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors. Here are some of its standout features:

- Veteran-owned operation with a commitment to providing exceptional services.
- On-site services including barbecue grills and picnic tables for a cozy outdoor experience.
- The park boasts wheelchair-accessible car parks and entrances, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature.
- A plethora of hiking trails, some paved with asphalt or crushed limestone, suitable for all fitness levels.
- Barbecue grills, picnic tables, and public toilets for comfort during your visit.
- For the young and young-at-heart, slides, swings, and a playground make it kid-friendly.
- Pets are welcome, adding to the fun for the whole family.
- Ideal for kid-friendly hikes and exploring nature with dogs.

Other Points of Interest

Visitors will find the park especially appealing for its variety of activities and attention to accessibility. Trails around Defiance Lake offer a scenic 3.7-mile walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more rigorous hike. The park’s amenities cater to groups and individuals seeking adventure or relaxation.

Why Visit Insights from Visitors

The park’s 1944 reviews on Google My Business speak volumes about its appeal. Visitors often commend the peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays like Mondays when the place isn't crowded. The trails, though mostly flat or slightly inclined, provide a pleasant walking experience. Families with pets appreciate the dog-friendly nature of the park, which encourages extended exploration.

However, some feedback highlights the dry conditions this fall, affecting foliage colors, though the park's beauty remains undeniable. The absence of many flush toilets is noted, but the abundance of restrooms ensures convenience.

Recommendation

For those seeking a good time with family and friends, Moraine Hills State Park is a must-visit. Whether you're looking to hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the outdoors, this park offers an enriching experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore its trails, relax at the barbecue grills, or let the kids play at the playground. To plan your visit or learn more about the park's offerings, contact them directly through their website at dnr.illinois.gov/park.morainehills..

With its high average opinion rating of 4.7/5, Moraine Hills State Park promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today and discover why it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Book your adventure now

👍 Reviews of Moraine Hills State Park

Greg W.

4/5

Nice walk with the dogs on an uncrowded Monday. Trails are mostly asphalt or crushed limestone. In the 3.7 mi defiance lake Walk. Had the dogs with us so it took a couple of hours and we were all tired after finishing. Many restrooms but few flush toilets only in a couple of places. Would recommended for a nice walk. Bicycles and cross-country skiing can be had throughout the park on a one-way basis so people don't run into each other. It's been a little bit dry in Illinois this fall so we didn't get to see as much color in the foliage as we were hoping.

Ramin H.

5/5

🌳🪷Moraine Hills State Park is a serene oasis nestled in northern Illinois. With its picturesque lakes, lush forests, and winding trails, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water, this park offers something for everyone. The diverse landscape provides ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

John M. R.

5/5

I recently cycled 25 miles within the park and dam. What a great park, met a gentlemen that worked there and he was very kind and informative. I really like the one way trails, it is very nice not having to worry about meeting a cyclist on a turn. Spent most of the day riding every trail we could find.

Peter S.

5/5

Great trails for walking, running or riding bikes. Most of the surfaces are asphalt or crushed limestone. Nice rolling hills, vistas and a variety of natural eco systems all in one place (lakes, forest, bogs, marsh and prairies). The park is clean and well maintained by the IDNR. Just be sure that you are out of the park and parking lot before the posted closing time or you will get locked in.

Christie M.

5/5

Absolutely beautiful! Definitely worth multiple return visits. There are several picnic benches, benches, and covered seating along the trails. Moderate amount of cars but rarely ran into anyone other than a passing biker. Love that the trails are wide enough to accomodate both hikers/runners and bikers. Most trails are a solid mix of pavement and gravel. Came across a few mowed trails as well. On the 'Return Visit' list for sure!

Casie K.

3/5

Fairly easy walk, there were a couple of hills mostly paved or gravel. Well maintained

Pavan B.

5/5

Love the Red Loop Trail - it's roughly 3.75 miles and takes you through a part of the park, with many different elevations throughout and both paved and unpaved pathways. Parts of the trail are secluded in the woods but are also wide open in certain areas, allowing for the breeze to fully encompass the trail. Bring sunscreen as a big part of the trail is spent walking directly under the sun with little to no shade. Have a water bottle on hand! There are multiple restrooms along the path, and also sheds with benches allowing you to sit and rest up on your way. The trail connects to other trails in the park, along with the main road leading into the park. I usually start my hike around the Main office area (Northern Woods) and end there, as there's tons of parking back there. You'll find it to be never too busy, any time you go. Have fun exploring!

Kathy F.

5/5

Beautiful park on McHenry Dam with some very scenic surrounding roads. Benches all along the water. Walking trails. Plenty of wildlife. Bathroom was halfway decent. Lots of parking. Park closes at 8pm (at the time of this post). Would make an excellent destination to ride your motorcycle to, then head over to The Snuggery (also on the water) or Mackey's for a drink and some lunch.