20 Attractions to Explore Near Walnut Point State Park

Ashmore Estates, is an abandoned mental asylum and amusement park. Originally the grounds of the asylum served as farmland for local settlers in the early nineteenth century. In 1848, Dr. Richard Ashmore partnered with other prominent citizens to establish a separate institution dedicated to psychiatric care. The estate included a large stone building, with numerous other structures used both for residential and vocational purposes.

Arcola Presbyterian Church, located in Arcola, Louisiana, is a historic landmark and religious institution that has served the local community for generations. Established in 1859, the church has played a significant role in the spiritual and social life of the area, providing a place of worship, fellowship, and community engagement for its members.

Lake Charleston is a pristine lake is full of cycling and paddling opportunities, while the surrounding area boasts plenty of camping spots and hiking trails. The surrounding towns have a great selection of restaurants and shops to explore, providing an enjoyable day out for all. Anglers will find plenty of fish to be caught in the lake's depths, and adventurous visitors can rent canoes or kayaks for some unforgettable water sports experiences.

The Douglas-Hart Nature Center is a great spot for nature-lovers, which is full of natural beauty and activities to keep everyone entertained. With its own museum and an extensive system of hiking trails, visitors can explore the ecosystem of Illinois' east-central region and learn more about the plants and animals that call it home. Those looking for a relaxing day can enjoy fishing at one of the numerous ponds or bird watching in the nesting areas found throughout the preserve.

Fox Ridge State Park is an amazing oasis located right near the hustle and bustle of town. It's 1,742 acres provide both a tranquil and tranquilizing atmosphere where visitors can spend time fishing, exploring nature trails, camping or disc golfing. Its diverse landscape includes woodlands, wetlands and prairies that are home to an abundant wildlife population including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and even coyotes. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing or kayaking.

Mill Creek Lake and Park is a destination that offers plenty of exciting activities and stunning scenic views. Located near Martinsville and the Wabash River, the park sits on 250 acres and features a 50-acre lake perfect for fishing or boating. Activities such as picnicking, camping, biking, nature watching and disc golf are popular at the park. Mill Creek Lake also offers an array of interesting wildlife and birds such as mallards and swans making it an ideal spot for serious birdwatchers.

West Side Park, is a great place to enjoy nature and take a break from the rest of the world. Spanning 90 acres of land, West Side Park boasts lush fields, ponds and wetlands teeming with birds and other wildlife. The park also has two miles of trails that meander through the forests affording visitors picturesque views as they explore. Those looking for more physical activity can check out the six baseball diamonds and basketball courts.

The Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is a well-preserved piece of American history. Founded in 1945, the site includes a 42 acre homestead with replicas of log cabins which were once home to Abraham Lincoln's parents and grandparents. In addition, visitors can explore recreations of an outdoor kitchen and smokehouse, orchard, garden, and animal pens. There are also beautiful nature trails winding through the woods on the grounds.

Lytle Park is a scenic natural retreat for visitors and locals alike. Located close to Lake Mattoon, the area is known for its lush greenery that includes a variety of trees and diverse wildlife. Recreational opportunities abound in Lytle Park with possibilities for fishing, camping, golfing, boating, swimming and more – all within the confines of this picturesque state park. Visitors can also enjoy miles of trails through a variety of terrain as they explore the abundance of flora and fauna.

Homer Lake, is a 155 acre oasis in the heart of Illinois. It is part of the Homer Lake Forest Preserve, which also includes hiking and biking trails, picnic areas as well as a fishing dock with plenty of access points for canoes and kayaks. Home to a variety of fish such as largemouth bass and crappie, Homer Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for both amateur anglers and seasoned veterans alike.

World's Largest Pitchfork is a unique roadside attraction standing over 45 feet tall. It draws attention from both tourists and locals alike. Built in 2013, the bright yellow steel and fiberglass pitchfork features intricate artwork including symbols of Clark and Coles counties, as well as an American Eagle decorated with red and blue stripes. The sculpture also contains larger-than-life depiction of cornstalks on its sides to illustrate the many agricultural products made in Clark county.

Standing at a whopping 37ft tall, the World's Largest Rocking Chair is an impressive sight to behold. Located in Clark County, Illinois since 1985, the chair itself was custom-built by local residents using only strong oak materials. As the county's proud symbol, it continues to draw tourists year-round with its classic charm and childlike fun. The locals often joke that the best way to ride this oversized "throner" is to bring along a few friends!

The world's largest wind chime was recently unveiled in Clark County. Standing 32 feet tall and boasting a weight of 18 tons, it is a sight to behold. Made up of 40 aluminum tubes suspended in seven octaves on a 33 foot triangle steel frame, the instrument is capable of producing significant sounds that transcend across the community. Its creator has used key mathematical principles to create harmonious sounds which are both pleasing and mesmerizing.

Standing at 17 feet tall and measuring a whopping 64 feet long, this impressive structure was unveiled in 2016 by local farmer Jim Bolin, who set out to display his array of exotic birds in an appropriate setting. Containing seven cages inside its expansive frame —installed with a unique modular system that allows for reconfiguration — the cage boasts numerous feeding and watering areas as well as perching elements.

The World's Largest Mailbox is an impressive sight. Standing at 25-feet tall and 18-feet wide, this red sculpture of a mailbox weighs over 10 tons and was built in 1985 by Terry Craney. According to locals, he had only one mission for the mailbox's construction: to show the world that rural areas have creativity. Surprisingly, it is functionable as local residents drop off their mail inside on a daily basis.

Meadowbrook Park, is the perfect place for a family picnic. This beloved park is filled with stunning scenery and plenty of activities to do within its 180 acres. Not only does Meadowbrook boast two swimming ponds and a 2.4-mile long scenic trail that winds through the park's extensive meadows and lush green grasses, but visitors will also be delighted to find playgrounds, basketball courts, baseball fields, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

Japan House at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is an oasis of tranquility and beauty for the students and people of Champaign county. The cultural center provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, art, and daily life of Japan in a breathtaking setting of Japanese gardens and koi ponds. Visitors can explore Japanese painting, flower arrangement, calligraphy, tea ceremony, chopstick making, and many other activities led by experts from around the world.

This is truly a sight to behond. Spanning one-hundred and thirty acres, the Arboretum is comprised of numerous gardens, each one more breathtakingly than the last. Visitors can explore perennial gardens; butterfly gardens; a formal Japanese Garden; and fruit and vegetable gardens. It additionally includes a variety of walking trails along with Greco-Roman-style amphitheater, allowing visitors an opportunity to admire nature or have an outdoor picnic without having to leave the premises.

Blair Park, is a great destination for nature lovers. Located on the grounds of a former golf course, the 155-acre park offers lots of green space and plenty of opportunities to explore. From its lush walking trails to its boardwalks winding through wetland habitats, Blair Park is teeming with flora and fauna. The park also features two large ponds that attract river otter, birds, and other creatures typically found in wetlands.

The State Farm Center, is a beloved local venue for entertainment and events. This prominent centerpiece hosts major concerts, sporting events for University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign teams, as well as graduations and other large gatherings. These huge events are made comfortable and memorable by the recently upgraded facility that features modernized amenities including disability access upgrades, an 800-space parking garage, LED video boards and improved acoustics.