Channahon State Park, Illinois
- Nature & parks
- In Channahon, Illinois
- 6.0 mi from Route 66
Channahon State Park lies near the town of Channahon, IL, about 6 miles off the old road, beside the spot where three rivers, the DuPage, the Des Plaines and the Kankakee, come together. Its name comes from a Native American word usually translated as “where the waters meet.” Opened in 1932 and run by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, it is a relaxed riverside break for Route 66 travelers south of Joliet.
What is Channahon State Park?
This is an Illinois state park set at a river junction, which makes water the main feature of the place. Three rivers meet nearby, so the park is a spot for time outdoors by the water rather than big attractions.
It is operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Parking and restrooms are on site, it is listed as wheelchair accessible, and it is suitable for children, which makes it an easy family stop.
History of Channahon State Park
The park dates to 1932. Its name, Channahon, is taken from a Native American term for a meeting place of waters, a fitting description of its setting where three rivers join. The nearby town shares the name. U.S. Highway 6 serves the park, making it simple to reach by car.
Visiting Channahon State Park: tips
Allow 30 minutes for a stretch-your-legs stop, or longer if you want to linger by the rivers. The park is on West Story Street in Channahon, about 6 miles from the Route 66 corridor, and is easy to combine with other outdoor and history stops close by.
Briscoe Mounds, the largest mound site in northern Illinois, is only about 0.5 miles away. The Des Plaines State Fish and Wildlife Area is about 2.3 miles off, and the Dresden Island Lock and Dam Historic District about 3.3 miles. Together they make a pleasant half-day of rivers and history before returning to the highway.
Practical info
- Address
- 25302 W Story St, Channahon, IL 60410
- Phone
- +1 815-467-4271
- Hours
- Daily 7:30–7
- On site & nearby
Sources: OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) · Wikidata · official site — may be outdated. Suggest a fix
Where to eat near Channahon State Park
All diners on Route 66 →
On the map
Full mapChannahon State Park with the 6 closest stops and places to eat (fork and knife). Tap a marker for details.
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Stops near Channahon State Park
All of Illinois
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3.3 mi from Channahon State Park
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5.3 mi from Channahon State Park
6.8 mi from Channahon State Park
Questions about Channahon State Park
What does Channahon mean?
It comes from a Native American word for a meeting of waters, a nod to the three rivers that join nearby.
Does Channahon State Park have restrooms?
Yes. Restrooms and parking are on site, and the park is listed as wheelchair accessible.
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