Author: marklongmainstream (Page 180 of 339)

Jackson Falls in Illinois

Jackson Falls is one of the best waterfalls in all of Illinois.  During the 5 mile hike to get to the base of the falls, you can also see two other waterfalls, along a beautiful canyon. During the summer months, Jackson Falls is one of the most popular swimming holes in the state.  Jackson Falls is located in Shawnee National Forest at Glen St Falls Rd, Simpson, IL 62985. For more information, click here.

Thunder Falls in Illinois

No walking is required to view this picture-perfect waterfall. This is a very popular spot for wedding and engagment photos, and has even been featured in several tourism ads both locally and on the state level. Thunder Bay Falls is located in the northwest corner of the state at 248-268 Thunder Bay Rd., Galena, IL 61036. For more information, click here.

Gooseberry Falls in Minnesota

Gooseberry Falls is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks due to its easy access to several scenic waterfalls! This park provides 70 non-electric camping sites that are available year-round. There are 18 miles of hiking trails, including 8 miles of mountain bike trails. The trails connect to the Superior Hiking Trail. There are popular picnic and swimming spots found throughout the park. Gooseberry Falls is located at 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616. For more information, click here.

Agate Falls in Michigan

Considered by many to be one of upper Michigan’s most picturesque waterfalls, Agate Falls Scenic Site is located on the middle branch of the Ontonagon River. The falls are created as the river finds its way over an extended shelf of terraced sandstone. The resulting waterfall is a broad band of interlacing cascades and small falls nearly 40 feet high. Agate Falls Scenic Site is located at M-28, in Trout Creek, Michigan. For more information, click here.

Lake Falls in Illinois

This picture is owned by Tonya Boyd

Canyons, streams, waterfalls, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park.  One of the  main attractions is, Lake Falls, this is a man made dam with a 65-foot-tall waterfall! Matthiessen State Park is an Illinois state park located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park. The main entrances to both parks are located on Illinois State Route 178, the entrance is located at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348 For more information, click here.

Minneopa Falls in Minnesota

Minnesota’s third oldest state park is home to a newly re-established American Bison herd. Enjoy a fun day of exploring Minneopa State Park filled with natural and historical features, including Southern Minnesota’s largest waterfall. Minneopa Falls checks in at a stunning 60 feet in height. The park is located off U.S. Highway 169 and State Highway 68, five miles west of Mankato Minnesota.

Dogwood Falls in Missouri

Dogwood Canyon  has been described as an outdoor wonderland just waiting to be explored.  This Midwestern paradise is spread out on more then 10,000 acres of ruggedly beautiful terrain.  The park has 30 different waterfalls, 2 lakes, and a beautiful meandering stream, that winds its way through the canyon. Dogwood Canyon is located at 2038 West State Hwy 86 Lampe, Missouri 65681. For more information, click here.

Copper Falls in Wisconsin

Jason Paul/Facebook

Copper Falls State Park has some lovely trails which lead to two waterfalls, Copper and Brownstone, both of which are around 30 feet high. Ancient lava flows, deep gorges and spectacular waterfalls make Copper Falls State Park one of Wisconsin’s most scenic parks. If you are in the park, you have to see the stunning gorge on Bad River. Copper Falls State Park is located at 36664 Copper Falls Rd, in Mellen. For more information, click here.

Smith Falls in Nebraska

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Smith Falls is located in the charming Smith Falls State Park and the falls are known to be the highest waterfall in all of Nebraska. Smith Falls is a popular place to enjoy during the summer months when many people come to kayak, tube, boat, and camp for a few days. Smith Falls was named after Frederic Smith; he was the first person who filed the smallholding patent on the property surrounding the falls. These falls are great for taking pictures and enjoying a picnic at one of the picnic tables in the park. If you are adventurous, try kayaking while visiting Smith Falls. Smith Falls is located at Smith Falls State Park at 90165 Smith Falls Rd. in Valentine, Nebraska.

Cedar Falls in Ohio

Cedar Falls are fairly narrow but have become one of the most visited falls in Ohio State. That is because they are family-friendly and offer the chance to cool off on a hot day. Their appearance changes by the season with the flow of water. Inside the state park, you will see caves and cliffs around this 50-foot waterfall. Visitors facilities are excellent and have led to even greater numbers coming, without the environment being spoilt in the least.The trails are good and cyclists can explore the park at their leisure – all stop to look at the falls. This waterfall can be found in Hocking Hills State Park.

Are there any we left off the list? Let me know in the comments.

Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is such a cool find! A hidden gem in every since of the word. The park has excellent trails and best of all you will likely have the entire place to yourself! Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is located off Highway 151 and Curoe Road, approximately 5 miles northeast of Cascade Iowa. For more information, click here.

Bridging the lines between Dubuque, Jackson and Jones counties, Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is one of the jewels in the Dubuque County Conservation Board system. This 562 acre area is open for public hunting during state designated hunting seasons. It is also a favorite with hikers, wildlife-watchers, and anglers dipping a line in Whitewater Creek. This unique location features 200-foot cliffs and scenic overlooks in a narrow valley along Whitewater Creek.

As an added bonus the park is located just a short drive from some of the most unique parks in the Midwest. Maquoketa Caves State Park is located just 15 miles south, and The Mines of Spain is 10 miles to the North. The beautiful Crystal Lake Cave is also less than 15 miles from the park.

During periods of sufficient water, it is also floated by canoers and kayakers. Winter provides areas to snowshoe and cross-country ski.

One of only three true canyons in the State of Iowa, the walls of Whitewater provide a lesson in the state’s geology taking one back 450 million years to a time when what is now Iowa was under the sea. Rare plants and animals are also sheltered in the various natural communities found on the property.

This area was purchased from Cliff and Jennie Waller through the cooperation of the state and federal agencies, a REAP grant, Habitat Stamp funds, and donations from private citizens/wildlife groups. An additional 140 acre tract from Dick and Arlene Henneberry was purchased by Jones County Conservation Board and is referred to as Lost Canyon. An expanded parking area and interpretive signage is planned for the site which will otherwise remain in a natural state.

A unique section of Whitewater Canyon, “Lost Canyon”, can be found tucked into the southeastern corner of the Whitewater Canyon Area and will impress anyone with its plethora of caves and concave bedrock walls.  Both Whitewater and Lost Canyon are believed to have formed when an ancient cave system collapsed about 16,000 – 21,000 years ago.   Large pieces of dolomite, some nearly 25 feet in diameter, can be found scattered along narrow valley floors.

Native animal and plant life abound here in this hidden corner of Iowa.  Anyone wishing to “get away” for a bit of solitude can immerse themselves in nature here.  Spring wildflowers paint the forest floor from March through May while the beauty of the restored upland prairie will astound you from summer through fall. Scenic overlooks and vistas as well as several caves and rock shelters await to be discovered.

Preservation and enhancement of this site’s unique habitats and plant and animal communities are the primary goals of future management.  This site provides many outdoor opportunities — it is a true gem.

Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area is such a cool find. When you first arrive it appears to be a massive plot of farm land. As you continue to hike and get into the wooded area, you begin to hear rushing water. Before you know it you’re standing on a jaw-dropping overlook of 1 of the 3 canyons in the state of Iowa.

For more of Iowa’s Parks and Amazing Locations, click here. For the best nearby lodging and campgrounds, click here. For the best family activities, click here.

If your looking for a unique place to stay during your Branson Missouri Vacation. This is it! The Misty View Treehouse is available at Branson Treehouse Adventures! This epic treehouse resort is located at 159 Acorn Acres Ln, Branson West, Missouri. To check availability and prices, click here.

Enjoy a night in the trees with our “Romantic Couples” treehouse that sleeps 2 adults (NO children). It features an indoor jetted tub for two and bathroom with shower, kitchenette and sitting area. It has a Samsung smart TV and a DVD player.  It also features a unique private coffee deck in a separate tree attached to the private deck by a swinging bridge as well as your own private fire pit.

The Misty View Tree-House features a cozy setting complete with a open concept queen sized bed. The tree-house is perfect for two adults! There is also a gorgeous jetted hot-tub as well as a separate indoor shower.

The main area of the Misty View Treehouse features a living area with sofa, Samsung smart TV and DVD player. There is also a kitchenette with mini fridge, microwave, sink, coffee maker, slow cooker, electric frying pan, griddle and utensils, dishes for four.

Outside the tree-house is patio furniture, a gas grill, and a private deck offering beautiful views! The deck is a perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee!

The grounds at Branson Treehouse Adventures, feels much more like a campground then a resort. There is a playground, basketball court, volleyball net, and swimming pool . The pool is open Memorial Day To Labor Day.

For more nearby lodging, click here. For great family adventures in Missouri, click here. For a list of some of Missouri’s most amazing locations, click here.

If your looking for a unique place to stay during your Branson Missouri Vacation. This is it! The Missouri Boatride Treehouse is available at Branson Treehouse Adventures! This epic treehouse resort is located at 159 Acorn Acres Ln, Branson West, Missouri. To check availability and prices, click here.

Enjoy an adventure in the trees in the Missouri Boatride Treehouse! This treehouse sleeps 5 people, and is a perfect lodging option the entire family will enjoy!

There is a triple bunk bed, bathroom with shower, a living/dining/kitchen area with a small refrigerator, microwave, crock-pot, dishes and utensils for five. It also contains a coffee maker, glassware, mugs, cooking utensils, pots, pans, a two-burner hot plate, and a toaster oven.

The Missouri Boatride Treehouse has a back deck overlooking the woods with seating for five. You and your family will also have your own private cowboy firepit with outdoor seating.

The treehouse has heat/air, electric fireplace, and a Samsung smart TV and DVD player.  The floor plan is all one level with a queen bedroom that has a sliding barn door for privacy.

The grounds at Branson Treehouse Adventures, feels much more like a campground then a resort. There is a playground, basketball court, volleyball net, and swimming pool . The pool is open Memorial Day To Labor Day.

For nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best family activities in the area, click here. For more lodging options in the area, click here.

Russell Cave National Monument is nothing short of an archaeological wonder! This gorgeous cave, is located at 3729 County Road 98 in Bridgeport Alabama. For more information on the park, click here.

Russell Cave National Monument was established on May 11, 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. The park serves to protect one of the most complete records of human occupation in the Southeast US. Through elaborate excavations in the 1950’s and 60’s, archaeologists were able to date the time people lived here from about 10,000 BCE to 1650 CE. This vast time period makes Russell Cave a unique spot to learn about not only the history of the Southeast, but also how archaeology can teach us about the past.

Russell Cave is an archaeological site with one of the most complete records of prehistoric cultures in the Southeast.  In the 1950s, archaeologists uncovered a large quantity of artifacts representing over 10,000 years of use in a single place.  Today, Russell Cave National Monument helps bring to light many cultural developments of phenomenal human journeys.

No matter what day of the week that you come to visit Russell Cave, you can always participate in the self-guided tour out to the cave shelter. You can either grab a brochure and read the signs at the cave, or if you’re looking for a little more, you can listen to our audio tour through your phone! The boardwalk path travels from the Visitor Center to the cave shelter.  While wheeled items such as wheelchairs and strollers can travel the whole trail, be aware that there are some steeper portions of the path that may require extra effort to roll along.

Each year thousands of visitors discover the cultural and natural significance of Russell Cave. Some visitors spend their time exploring the great mysteries of the prehistoric Native Americans, while other visitors explore the 115 species of birds that live on Montague Mountain.

If you’re looking for more of an adventure, you can sidestep onto our 1.2-mile hiking trail just off the boardwalk on your way out to the cave shelter. This mossy and sometimes broken in places, asphalt loop offers an escape to nature as you walk among the native trees and plants that line the path. This trail is steep and can be strenuous for some, so be prepared with proper shoes and water.

Picnic benches can be found around the parking area of Russell Cave. Picnicking is first come, first serve and there is no barbecuing allowed on site.

The park is open daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The park is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. All operating hours are in central time and the main gate into the park closes at 4:30 pm.

For nearby lodging and camping options, click here. For more great parks and amazing locations in the area, click here. For the best family activities, click here.