National parks near Chicago

Closest first

The list shows up to 10 closest parks within 500 miles; if none are within that range, it shows the 3 nearest overall. Distances are straight-line miles from the city center to approximate park coordinates. Drive times are rough estimates based on distance, not live routing; ferry, traffic, road closures, and seasonal access can change a trip. Confirm routes and current conditions with the National Park Service before you go. Open the app for parks near wherever you are right now.

• 1 Indiana Dunes · Indiana · 50+ trails · Free34 mi · ~0.5 hr drive estimate
• 2 Gateway Arch · Missouri · 3+ trails · Free262 mi · ~5.5 hr drive estimate
• 3 Cuyahoga Valley · Ohio · 125+ trails · Free317 mi · ~6.5 hr drive estimate
• 4 Mammoth Cave · Kentucky · 85+ trails · Free334 mi · ~7 hr drive estimate
• 5 Isle Royale · Michigan · 165+ trails · $7 / person / day432 mi · ferry or flight required
• 6 New River Gorge · West Virginia · 112+ trails · Free444 mi · ~9.5 hr drive estimate
• 7 Great Smoky Mountains · Tennessee · 800+ trails · Free486 mi · ~10 hr drive estimate

Planning a trip from Chicago

By our rough distance-based estimate, Indiana Dunes, Gateway Arch are within about six hours by road. Actual travel times vary; check a current route and reserve campsites or lodging ahead in peak season.

Each park page covers popular trails, camping, entrance fees, and the best time to visit. In ParkAtlas, the home screen shows unvisited parks within reach of your current location and lets you log the one you pick.