Zion, IL

Change City

---

• Back to Things to Do

Illinois Beach State Park

1 Lake Front Dr

Zion, IL 60099

Visit Website

Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end. Camping-  No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.

Flag This Place

Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors.

AARP Events for Zion

AARP Events for Zion

• Featured Event

  Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All

  Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT

  AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA

  Online Event

• Featured Event

  Mornings with Flo: Zumba

  Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT

  AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA

  Online Event

• Featured Event

  Mornings with Flo: Zumba

  Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT

  AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA

  Online Event

View All AARP Events

Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal

• Immediate access to your member benefits
• Discounts on travel and everyday savings
• Subscription to AARP The Magazine
• FREE second membership

Join AARP

Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Facebook

Contact AARP
Illinois

• ILAARP@aarp.org
• AARP Illinois
• Contact Us

     

Return to top

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
Code Context
            <?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?>
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
            <?php if (!$nowrapper):  // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBD
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp'
$dataForView = array(
	'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
',
	'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
',
	'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP'
)
$content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Illinois Beach State Park</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1 Lake Front Dr</div>
											<div>
							<span>Zion</span>,
							<span>IL</span>
												<span>60099</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>
								</div>
								
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Illinois+Beach+State+Park%2C+1+Lake+Front+Dr%2C+Zion%2C+IL+60099" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities at one of the most unique and beautiful natural settings in America. Illinois Beach is the only remaining beach ridge shoreline left in the state, with dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation.More than 650 species of plants have been recorded in the dunes area alone, including dozens of types of colorful wildflowers. Prickly pear cactus thrives in large colonies in the dry areas, and the wet prairies are carpeted with a wide variety of grasses and sedges. Large expanses of marsh in the swales support dense stands of cattail, grasses, big bluestem and sedges.The sandy ridges are crowned by black oak forests with an open, savanna-like appearance. Several kinds of fragrant pines, introduced a century ago, also prosper in the southern area. Just north of the pines is the Dead River, a stream blocked by sandbars much of the year, features an abundance of aquatic plants and fish that belie its name.The 4,160-acre park, consisting of two separate areas (North Unit and South Unit), offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping and simply appreciating nature. In addition to swimming beaches, trails and campgrounds, the Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center is the perfect place to get away for a weekend or a weeklong vacation.ActivitiesBike TrailBikers can travel between the North and South units of Illinois Beach State Park by utilizing the Zion Bike Trail, a section of trail connecting 29th Street at the south end to 17th Street at the north end.&nbsp;Camping-&nbsp; No Possession or Consumption of Alcohol allowed on any site in the Campground.A campground in the southern unit provides 241 Class A Premium sites with electricity and access to showers and sanitary facilities. You must obtain a camping permit from the park staff, and must have a camping unit upon arrival.Reservations can be made online at www.reserveamerica.com and will only be accepted for May 1 - September 30. Due to the high use of this area on holiday weekends, reservations are recommended. Campsites also are available on a first-come first-serve basis, but understand that the campgrounds fill up early on Fridays during the summer season. Three handicap accessible campsites are present in the campground near the accessible restrooms and a dump station.FishingFishing is allowed along the beach area in both units (except in the swimming areas) and there are several small inland fishing ponds, including Sand Pond, where a disabled fishing pier is available. No fishing is allowed in the nature preserve.HikingIllinois Beach provides excellent hiking opportunities. The southern part of the park features 5 miles of trails, including a 2.2-mile loop trail with a graveled surface. In the north, Camp Logan Trail is a 1.8-mile multi-use loop that cross-country skiers also can use. Cross-country skiing is not allowed in the nature preserve.Swimming Beach Swimming is a major summertime attraction along the sandy shorelines, and both units provide ample parking. Caution is urged as there are no on-duty lifeguards, so please be careful.Pets Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the nature preserve. Dogs are allowed in the campground, the picnic area, and the remainder of the trails as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not to be left unattended.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
                <form method="post" action="/zion-il/report/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html">
        <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button>
    </form>
        
            </div>

    <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. 
    </div>
    <style>
    .report_button_message {
        color: #333;
        font-size: 12px;
        clear: both;
    }
    </style>
		
	</div>
</div>
</div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750">
<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default-->
<!-- module_RHS - AARP Events -->

<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
	<header>
		<div class="pull-right">
			<a href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">
				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Zion</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
			<ul class="list">
				<li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilgentle-flow-yoga-nurturing-body-mind-virtual-11524-jznx7xxtmy7.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-CHAIR-YOGA-GENTLE-FITNESS-FOR-ALL">Chair Yoga: Gentle Fitness for All</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Tuesday, Nov 5, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11724-zmnt4hm6l5r.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Thursday, Nov 7, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilmornings-with-flo-zumba-virtual-11824-nmngs2jm85j.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-MORNINGS-WITH-FLO-ZUMBA">Mornings with Flo: Zumba</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Nov 8, 2024 at 10:00&nbsp;a.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">AARP IL Facebook and AARP IL YouTube, Links TBA</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
		</div>
	</div>
</div>


<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-ZION-IL">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
	</div>
</div>
<style>
.membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;}
.membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; }
</style>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
                    <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250">
                        
                         
                            <script type="text/javascript">
                                if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){
                                  AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'});
                                }
                            </script>
                         
                    </div>
                </div>
<div class="module-spacer text-center">
<div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Illinois Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true">
	<blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois">Facebook</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>

 
<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
<header>
<h2>Contact AARP<br />Illinois</h2>
</header>
<div class="wrap">

<div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer">
<ul class="list-unstyled">
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:ILAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ILAARP@aarp.org</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Illinois</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-illinois-contact-us/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ZION-IL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
</div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPIllinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/aarpillinois" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpillinoisjoy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>


</div>
</div>

</div></div>
	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div>
	<div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div>
</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	</div>
<div class="row oneColumnLayout">
	<div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar -->
	<script type="text/javascript">
		jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() {
			window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href');
		});
	</script>
</div>
</div>
'
$scripts_for_layout = '<title>Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL</title>
<meta name="page_title" content="Illinois Beach State Park - Zion, IL"/>
<meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/>
<meta content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities" name="description"/>
<meta content="Illinois, Beach, State, Park, Zion, IL" name="keywords"/>
<link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html" />
<meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/illinois-beach-state-park-zion-il.html"/>
<meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/>
<meta name="twitter:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta name="twitter:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="og:type" content="place"/>
<meta property="og:title" content="Illinois Beach State Park"/>
<meta property="og:description" content="Illinois Beach State Park - stretching 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois - offers a full range of recreation opportunities"/>
<meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/>
<meta property="place:location:latitude" content="42.437199"/>
<meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-87.810699"/>
'
$title_for_layout = 'Place Detail - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = ''
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/zion-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Zion, IL</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/zion-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/zion-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/zion-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'Things to Do',
		'slug' => 'things-to-do'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to Things to Do',
	'slug' => 'things-to-do'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118