The Illinois Conservation Foundation is partnering with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to raise money and awareness for Illinois state parks.
Throughout June, supporters are invited to “vote” for their favorite Illinois state park by making a donation online. Every $1 donated equals one vote.
There are four groups of parks based on visitation, and there will be one winner from each group. The park receiving the most votes in each group will receive a plaque with names of each donor who contributed to that park. Donations are only accepted online.
All funds raised will go back into the Illinois state parks system. Projects will be identified by state parks staff and include things like accessibility improvements and new playgrounds. Current projects include a new stable at Giant City State Park in Jackson County.
Illinois is one of seven states that do not charge an entrance fee for state parks.
