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Submission
Channahon State Park is the official trailhead for the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Channahon is an Indian word meaning "the meeting of the waters" and signifies the joining of the DuPage, Des Plaines and Kankakee rivers.
Today, Channahon State Park is under the management of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and provides park visitors a look back at a historic waterway that transformed a state. Locks 6 & 7 and the original locktenders house at Lock 6 located at the Channahon State Park enable visitors to daydream of a time when one of the loudest noises heard came from a blacksmith pounding out a new set of horse shoes.
Only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked to the campsite. Fire rings, picnic tables, and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance from the camping area. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center.
From I-55: take the Rte. #6 Channahon exit. Turn west on Rte. #6 and continue into Channahon to Canal St. Take a left on Canal and proceed to Story St. Turn right on Story into the park. If the parking area is full, continue on Canal St. one more block to the Jessup St. parking area.
Ended up here by mistake but took a look around. It's a tent only camping area, plus picnic tables once they are set up. There is also a walking path.
Across the parking area on the other side is a small playground, and there are bathrooms.
There is also a Forgotten Soldier Memorial near the playground, but it looked like there was another road to get down to it with parking.
The Memorial was where I was originally trying to get to.
Channahon State Park is a serene sanctuary teeming with natural splendor and historical significance. This inviting enclave provides the perfect retreat for those desiring a break from the fast-paced city life, with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation set against a backdrop of lush greenery and historical landmarks.
An integral part of the park's appeal is its location at the confluence of the DuPage, Des Plaines, and Kankakee rivers, making it a significant point along the Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal. At Channahon State Park, history isn't merely a subject in textbooks but rather, it is etched into the landscape itself.
One of the most notable features of the park is the Channahon Dam, a striking testament to early American engineering. This dam, with its cascading water providing a captivating spectacle, has become a hub for visitors, offering an idyllic spot for reflection or simply enjoying the sound of the water.
Also located within the park is the historic I&M Canal Lock 6. One of the few surviving structures of the canal system that once connected the Great Lakes with the Mississippi River, Lock 6 offers visitors a tangible piece of 19th-century history. You can almost hear the echoes of the laborers and boatsmen as you stand by the carefully preserved lock, now a silent witness to the passage of time.
The extensive network of trails surrounding these landmarks allow for in-depth exploration. Whether you choose a leisurely stroll, an invigorating run, or a cycling adventure, each trail provides a unique perspective of the park's flora, fauna, and historical features.
The park also provides for camping under the starlit sky, fishing in the plentiful rivers, picnicking in designated areas, and engaging in seasonal activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The well-maintained camping sites and amenities ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
In essence, Channahon State Park is a living tapestry woven with threads of natural beauty and historical heritage. Its vast expanses invite you to wander, while its landmarks tell stories of a bygone era. Whether you are an avid nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking solace in the embrace of the outdoors, Channahon State Park promises an experience that is not only rejuvenating but also enlightening.
I have been to that place 5 times already and it's a nice place to go to and the waterfall is good. Then they have good trails to and with an old schoolhouse and where the DuPage River and the I & M Canal meet. Those pictures are taken in June 2021.
This park is part of the I &M Canal Heritage Corridor. Very well maintained. Beautiful park where you can sit and relax, or take a long hike along the tow path.
People fish along the bridge. Fantastic birding site in spring and fall.
Very clean with several restrooms options in the park.
Well marked paths, dog friendly and beautiful views of the rivers and canal.
