Bellevue State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Bellevue State Park is a popular destination in the state of Illinois, located on the banks of the Mississippi River.
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Summary
The park is known for its beautiful natural scenery, stunning views of the river, and a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main reasons to visit Bellevue State Park is its extensive hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Mississippi River. The park also offers camping facilities, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas for families and groups. Visitors can also explore the park's nature center and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Some of the park's specific points of interest include a historic lock and dam site, the Bellevue Butterfly Sanctuary, and the Great River Road, which is a popular scenic drive in the area. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, river otters, and white-tailed deer.
Interesting facts about Bellevue State Park include its designation as a National Natural Landmark, recognition as an Important Bird Area, and its location within the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The park is also home to several rare plant species, including the sweet-cicely and wild columbine.
The best time of year to visit Bellevue State Park is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the park's natural beauty is at its peak. However, visitors can enjoy the park's recreational activities year-round, including winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Overall, Bellevue State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, outdoor recreation, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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