White Pines Forest State Park is located in the heart of the scenic Rock River Valley in northwest Illinois. The region is an outdoor-recreation paradise with many other state parks, nature preserves, great public golf courses, local swimming holes, canoe and kayak rentals,and miles of superb boating and fishing on the Rock River . The area offers horseback riding, miniature golf, go-karting, exciting wildlife viewing, and unobstructed views and vistas that give the pastoral landscape its special flavor.
Significant historical sites, monuments, museums and points of interest are seemingly everywhere, retelling stories of the rich heritage. Visitors can tour the John Deere Historic Site, witness the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan, travel stretches of the Lincoln Highway and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, and learn about the clashes and bloody battles that took place here during the Black Hawk War of 1832. There's even a year-round historic haunted house for the brave of heart!
Visit the many small towns and charming villages and you'll be greeted by shopkeepers with rare and genuine hospitality as you search for eclectic hand-crafted gifts, artisan works, and antique treasures and collectibles. Attend one of the region's many special events, fairs, festivals, celebrations and cultural happenings; there's always something exciting and wonderful going on!
Click on the categories below for quick access and for a complete listing of the area's recreational activities and attractions visit the Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau website at www.bwcvb.com or call for a copy of their extensive brochure 800-678-2108.