Apple River Canyon State Park, Apple River

I loved it so much! It was very fun and kept us entertained. It was conveinent becuse it was near our hotel and it was a side trip when we went to visit a collage for open house.

Camped in a mild November, arrived not knowing main campgrounds close on Nov 1-- so, pitched tent in the "Youth" area--still nice. Perched on a small bluff under which a huge grassy area stretched alongside a gurgling stream--great soothing sound effects for sleeping to. I was the only camper until Friday night when a band of boy scouts and their leaders descended-- they were quiet and polite, and there was plenty of room for us all. Rangers are very helpful and friendly. But the big thing is the landscape. The canyons, gullies, and bluffs are beautiful: don't miss the hiking! With a very mild fall, many trees were still leafed out, but enough weren't so that the vistas from the hiking trails were unobscured and gorgeous. Trails differ in difficulty, but none are too hard or too long. Much for you here if your eyes are sore from city sights and your ears from city noise. Near enough to towns of Lena, Warren, and even Galena for other kinds of recreation; also near some mounds, which I mean to visit next time-- maybe this weekend, as it's still in the sixties--pretty crazy for this time of year!

I just have to say that my boyfriend used Apple River Canyon as a great way to start off our relationship. We spent the evening cuddling under the start out on the water. It was peaceful,beautiful and the people are great. Can't wait to go back!!

This is my favorite "local" park. The trails are great, the people are always friendly, and the little resturant has the absolute best hashbrowns I have ever eaten.