SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will host self-guided First Day Hikes at 17 state parks across Illinois on Jan. 1. The free, family-friendly hikes encourage residents to start the new year outdoors and include Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County. Participants can also visit parks such as Castle Rock, Giant City, Illinois Beach, Pere Marquette, and Volo Bog, where stickers and photo opportunities will be available. Illinois does not charge admission to state parks or historic sites. For more information, visit dnr.illinois.gov/parks.


