Norfolk Park

Rate this place

Parks

Illinois

Nearby: Mar-Duke Farm Park Ruth K Powers Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Norfolk Park is a small park located in the state of Illinois that offers several reasons to visit.

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park spans an area of 17 acres and provides visitors with ample opportunities for recreational activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking. The park has a playground area for children, tennis courts, and a baseball diamond.

One of the main points of interest in the park is the historic Norfolk and Western Railroad Depot, which served as a stop for the railroad back in the late 1800s. Another attraction within the park is the Norfolk Park Pavilion, which offers the perfect setting for outdoor events like weddings, family reunions, and corporate events.

Interesting facts about the park include that it was named after the Norfolk & Western Railroad Company, which played a significant role in the development of the area. Also, the park was originally established in 1923 and has since undergone several renovations to modernize its facilities.

The best time of year to visit Norfolk Park is during the months of April to October when the weather is mild, and the park's facilities are open for public use. During this time, visitors can take advantage of the park's numerous recreational activities, including nature hikes, birdwatching, and fishing.

Overall, Norfolk Park is an excellent destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the great outdoors. With its historic landmarks, well-maintained facilities, and picturesque scenery, it is no wonder why so many people choose to visit this park each year.

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
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