With summer just around the corner, now is a perfect time for parents to start investigating camps for their children that encourage personal growth through the warm months. With a number of great summer camps all over the state there is no need to look far. Here are just a handful of unique opportunities Illinois has to offer.

Land that once would have been considered unfit for use because of strip mining activity today is Illinois’ largest state recreation area thanks to conservation-minded leaders who reclaimed the land in the 1960s for a natural area.

Pyramid State Recreation Area south of Pinckneyville in southern Illinois has nearly 20,000 acres of rolling terrain, forest, lakes, trails, picnic sites and hunting areas. It also features 24 lakes and bodies of water, 16.5 miles of trails and three primitive campgrounds.

Looking to have a great time outdoors? Then check out Fox Ridge State Park.

Located in Charleston, Fox Ridge State Park is a scenic spot along the Embarras River that is known for its miles of gorgeous hiking trails. Though the trails can be steep, eighteen picturesque wooden bridges and numerous benches allow climbers a place to rest. If you do go hiking, the staircase to Eagle’s Nest climbs 144 steps to a deck with a beautiful view of the river.

It's National Tourism Week. View the Top 10 Places to visit in Illinois below:

Spring has finally arrived! With it getting warmer outside, now is a good time to visit a park for some outdoor fun and relaxation.

Frank Holten State Recreation Area is one park worth seeing. It has 1,080-acres and is located in East St. Louis within view of the St. Louis Gateway Arch.