Nothing beats a picnic with family or friends on a summer day in a naturally beautiful setting like along the banks of the Rock River. Rock River is one of Illinois largest and most beautiful natural features. It spans five counties and runs the length of approximately 285 miles to join with the Mississippi River at Rock Island, Illinois.

You can find a place to picnic or just take in the view of Rock River at various locations in Northwestern Illinois like; Byron, Dixon, Grand Detour, Loves Park, Lyndon, Machesney Park, Oregon, Prophetstown, Rock Falls, Rockford, Rockton, Roscoe, South Beloit, and Sterling.

Castle Rock State Park provides one of the most spectacular views of the river from high atop a sandstone bluff. The park has three picnic areas which offer shelters, tables, grills, drinking water, toilets and a children’s playground to make your picnic experience complete.

Lowden State Park in Ogle County also offers some beautiful views of the Rock River. The Rock River winds for 34 miles through this large state park that offers canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking trails and areas for picnicking.

Northwestern Illinois is a picnicker’s paradise, with the natural wonder and peace of dining by the Rock River.