Illinois

16 Mar 2025Updated last time

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10 best places for Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Illinois is home to a diverse array of beautiful outdoor destinations that are perfect for a weekend getaway with your furry friend. From lush forests and scenic rivers to expansive lakes and serene beaches, the state offers countless opportunities for you and your dog to explore and enjoy nature. Whether you prefer hiking along rugged trails, lounging by a lake, paddling through unique wetlands, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, Illinois has a spot that will cater to your adventure needs. Discover fantastic dog-friendly locations like Starved Rock State Park, Shawnee National Forest, and Illinois Beach State Park, each offering unique landscapes and activities that ensure both you and your canine companion have an unforgettable trip. Pack your bags, grab your leash, and embark on an exciting adventure across some of Illinois' most remarkable natural wonders.

Recommended Explorations

1
Starved Rock State Park
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Starved Rock State Park is known for its stunning canyons, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and offers a variety of outdoor activities both you and your dog can enjoy.
2
Matthiessen State Park
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Matthiessen State Park offers impressive rock formations, lush greenery, and cascading water features. It's a great destination for hiking and exploring nature with your dog, providing picturesque landscapes around every corner.
3
Shawnee National Forest
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Shawnee National Forest boasts diverse ecosystems, from rolling hills and rugged bluffs to serene lakes and streams. It's an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and their canine companions to enjoy hiking, camping, and sightseeing.
4
Cache River State Natural Area
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Cache River State Natural Area features unique wetlands and cypress-tupelo swamps. It's a great destination for paddling, bird watching, and hiking, offering a serene and diverse environment for you and your dog to explore.
5
Giant City State Park
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Giant City State Park is renowned for its massive sandstone bluffs, lush wooded paths, and diverse wildlife. It offers numerous hiking trails and picnic areas, making it an excellent spot for an adventurous outing with your dog.
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Illinois Beach State Park
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Illinois Beach State Park provides a unique coastal experience along the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers sandy beaches, dune areas, and scenic trails, giving you and your dog plenty of opportunities to enjoy the shoreline and natural beauty.
7
Rend Lake
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Rend Lake is a popular destination for its expansive waterbody, ideal for fishing, boating, and water sports. The surrounding area has excellent hiking trails and campgrounds, making it a versatile outdoor getaway for you and your dog.
8
Kankakee River State Park
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Kankakee River State Park features scenic views of the Kankakee River, with opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The park's well-maintained trails and picnic areas make it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and their canine companions.
9
Mississippi Palisades State Park
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Mississippi Palisades State Park is known for its breathtaking overlooks of the Mississippi River and its rugged terrain, including bluffs and rock formations. It's an ideal spot for hiking, bird watching, and exploring nature with your dog, offering unrivaled scenic beauty.
10
Rock Cut State Park
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Rock Cut State Park offers a diverse landscape with two lakes, multiple hiking trails, and lush forests. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. With its beautiful natural scenery and ample space, it provides a wonderful environment for both you and your dog to enjoy a weekend getaway.

Travel Gems from Reddit

Local Events & Happenings

Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas With Special Gue
Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas With Special Gue
The event will take place at The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur.
The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur (21.36 mi)
5 Sep 2025
Visit Website
Billy Currington with Special Guest Clayton Mullen
Billy Currington with Special Guest Clayton Mullen
The event will take place at The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur.
The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur (21.36 mi)
8 Sep 2025
Visit Website

Lauren Alaina
Lauren Alaina
The event will take place at Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur.
Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur (22.97 mi)
13 Sep 2025
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Christone Ingram
Christone Ingram
The event will take place at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington.
The Castle Theatre in Bloomington (23.59 mi)
15 Aug 2025
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Neal Francis (18+ Event)
Neal Francis (18+ Event)
The event will take place at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington.
The Castle Theatre in Bloomington (23.59 mi)
20 Aug 2025
Visit Website
Soccer Mommy with Dummy (18+ Event)
Soccer Mommy with Dummy (18+ Event)
The event will take place at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington.
The Castle Theatre in Bloomington (23.59 mi)
7 Sep 2025
Visit Website
Fruition
Fruition
The event will take place at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington.
The Castle Theatre in Bloomington (23.59 mi)
18 Sep 2025
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Music for Your Journey

Tasty Picks

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
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4.4
$$$$
Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
Located in a historic mansion, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients.
4.4
$$$$
Alinea
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4.5
$$$$
Alinea
Known for its cutting-edge molecular gastronomy, Alinea offers a unique dining experience with innovative dishes.
4.5
$$$$
The Aviary
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4.3
$$$$
The Aviary
This cocktail bar offers a truly unique experience with its avant-garde and visually stunning cocktails.
4.3
$$$$
The Berghoff
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The Berghoff
A historic German restaurant that has been serving traditional dishes since 1898, offering a taste of old Chicago.
The Girl & The Goat
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The Girl & The Goat
This trendy restaurant by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard offers innovative and flavorful dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.

Stay Recommendations

The Robey
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The Robey
Housed in a converted Art Deco skyscraper, The Robey offers chic, vintage-style rooms with stunning city views.
Long Hollow Canopy Tours and Resort
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4.9
Long Hollow Canopy Tours and Resort
Stay in a luxury treehouse nestled in a forest, offering a unique blend of adventure and comfort.
4.9
Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge
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4.6
Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge
Set atop the scenic bluffs of the Ohio River, this lodge offers rustic accommodations with breathtaking views.
4.6
The Champagne Lodge
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3.9
The Champagne Lodge
A boutique hotel offering luxurious suites with private whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, perfect for a romantic getaway.
3.9
Galena Log Cabin Getaway
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3.7
Galena Log Cabin Getaway
Stay in an authentic log cabin surrounded by nature, providing a serene and rustic escape without sacrificing comfort.
3.7

Your Trips Will Appear Here

10 best places for Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Dog Friendly Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Recommended Explorations

Starved Rock State Park

Matthiessen State Park

Shawnee National Forest

Cache River State Natural Area

Giant City State Park

Illinois Beach State Park

Rend Lake

Kankakee River State Park

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Rock Cut State Park

Travel Gems from Reddit

Local Events & Happenings

Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas With Special Gue

Alison Krauss & Union Station Featuring Jerry Douglas With Special Gue

Billy Currington with Special Guest Clayton Mullen

Billy Currington with Special Guest Clayton Mullen

Lauren Alaina

Lauren Alaina

Christone Ingram

Christone Ingram

Neal Francis (18+ Event)

Neal Francis (18+ Event)

Soccer Mommy with Dummy (18+ Event)

Soccer Mommy with Dummy (18+ Event)

Fruition

Fruition

Music for Your Journey

Tasty Picks

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

Alinea

Alinea

The Aviary

The Aviary

The Berghoff

The Berghoff

The Girl & The Goat

The Girl & The Goat

Stay Recommendations

The Robey

The Robey

Long Hollow Canopy Tours and Resort

Long Hollow Canopy Tours and Resort

Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge

Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge

The Champagne Lodge

The Champagne Lodge

Galena Log Cabin Getaway

Galena Log Cabin Getaway