Three Illinois state parks—and one Indiana state park within driving distance of Chicago—just joined some good company, ranking among America’s Best State Parks for Great-Value Stays. Even more exciting news: one of those parks placed in the top 10. The list, assembled by vacation rental company HomeToGo, analyzed 100 U.S. state parks with the lowest median vacation rental cost in 2025. HomeToGo then crunched some more numbers including park size, general affordability and a “hidden gem score” (i.e., the park’s desirability and notoriety). The ranking’s extensive methodology also entailed an analysis of each park’s trails, wildlife and scenery. That's enough math for me, thank you very much.
With the highest possible score being 60, the already-revered Starved Rock State Park received a score of 49.76—the top mark for an Illinois park—landing the No. 7 spot. This should come as no surprise: Starved Rock was recently named the fourth most visited state park in the country, according to a recent report released by Google Maps. One of the most beautiful attractions in the state, Starved Rock offers visitors 13 miles of trails winding through echoic canyons, cascading waterfalls and sky-high bluffs—not to mention trolley tours, river cruises and guided hikes.
Seizing the No. 27 spot with a score of 46.76 is Rock Cut State Park, located in Rockford, Illinois. Just a two-hour drive from Chicago, Rock Cut has something for nature buffs of all persuasions: more than 40 miles of hiking trails, 23 miles of mountain bike routes and even 14 miles of equestrian paths. Fishing, boating and plenty of kids’ activities round out this worthy day trip or weekend excursion from the city. If you do venture out, swing into Rockford to admire the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which HGTV just named the most beautiful garden in Illinois.
Matthiessen State Park—Starved Rock’s neighbor across East 8th Road—placed at No. 46 with a score of 44.5. With its impressive rock formations, lush vegetation and abundant wildlife, Matthiessen is a paradise for geology nerds and casual hikers alike. Clocking in at almost 2,000 acres, visitors can explore the grounds’ canyons, prairies, streams and forests by foot, ski or horse. The park is a feast for the senses, too, with the almond-like scent of maple saplings and chirpy songs of Carolina wrens sweetening the air.
Drive three hours southeast of Chicago, and you’ll land at Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Indiana, which nabbed the No. 10 spot on the list. Boasting sandstone canyons, aged forests and zigzagging ravines, Turkey Run is one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets. If you want to do this Indiana day trip right, heed these recommendations from me—a born-and-bred Hoosier. Pregame your outdoor excursion with a miniature pie at Sweet Revolution Bake Shop in Lafayette, Indiana, then head to Turkey Run for a full day’s worth of hiking—and canoeing, if you feel so inclined. Once you’ve gotten your nature fix, head back up north to Munster, Indiana, and stock up on Three Floyds brews, then sit down for a thrifty feast at smash burger shop Schoop’s Hamburgers (special cheeseburger and Irish nachos, washed down with an ice-cold Green River float—there is no better order).
Check out the full list of the best state parks for great-value stays here.