Lions Den Park
Rate this placeNearby: Tyler Athletic Fields Tri-Star Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lions Den Park is a popular recreational area located in the state of Illinois.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts who seek a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve, a 60-acre preserve that features stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife. Visitors can hike along the trails that run through the preserve to explore its natural beauty.
Another popular attraction in Lions Den Park is the Lions Den Canyon, a deep canyon that was formed by glaciers during the ice age. The canyon is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.
The park also boasts several picnic areas, playgrounds, and campsites, making it a great destination for families and groups. Visitors can enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the park or spend the night camping under the stars.
The best time to visit Lions Den Park is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the park is in full bloom. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
In conclusion, Lions Den Park is a beautiful and tranquil destination that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. From hiking and camping to picnicking and bird watching, there is something for everyone in this stunning natural area.
Weather Forecast
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.
Related References
Tyler Athletic Fields
Tri-Star Park
Walona Park
Haines Wayside Park
R S Corcoran Park
Tampier Lake
I & M Canal
Vanhorn Woods Park