Get ready! Stunning views ahead ….. in the beautiful Indian Caves of Bourbonnais, Illinois
They are seriously some of the most fun rock formations to explore in the midwest! The crazy part is that not many people know about them, but when they do, they are always sure to return. I made this travel guide so that other families can enjoy it as much as we did!
Cost: Free!
Getting There: Route your GPS to Cavelier De Lasalle Park, Percy Dr, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
This location will route you through a residential area. The final destination is a parking lot. There will be a large red gazebo in that vicinity. The walkway next to the river will take you directly to the mouth of the cave. There is a wooded area next to the parking lot and its trail connects to the same walkway next to the river.
What to pack in your backpack:
Sun Screen
Bug Spray
Flashlight
Water
Snacks
Small first aid kit
Ziplock bag or water proof bag for electronic devices
Mini Speaker *optional
What to wear:
Water shoes or gym shoes with good bottom grip *they will get submerged in water*. I WOULD NOT recommend sandals or flip flops.
Swimsuit or athleisure wear
Swim floats or life jacket for smaller children, especially if they do not know how to swim
Navigating the caves:
The mouth of the cave is directly across from a bridge. There is a rock formation in the entrance which you will have to climb. When visiting with smaller children it is recommended that you travel with two adults to get children safely over some of the rocks. I took my four year old and he was able to get through with our help. He especially loved exploring the small caves with his flashlight.
There are paths of slippery rocks so I wouldn’t recommend it for everyone. Which is why having the right shoes is important, and being vigilant as you navigate through the water. Visitors that opt for not going into the cave can stay right outside the entrance where there are gorgeous views of the Kankakee River. I suggest bringing lawn chairs for such guests. Alternatively, they can walk through the nature trails.
Once you get through the caves, they are long and narrow but don’t take much time to get through , you will be able to go through the nature trails above. We opted for the trails to the right as the ones on the left didn’t lead to much. My kids used long branches as hiking sticks which helped a lot with balance. I suggest surveying the site and choosing the safest upwards walking path as there are a few that lead to the top some harder than others. We made our way back down to the flat rocky area that looks like a long watering hole. My family and I stopped for a lunch break on a rock and then spent time doing rock skipping. Fortunately, I packed my @Bose Micro Sound Link for extra fun with my favorite playlist.
As you exit you can leave through the caves, or take the nature trail above. Unfortunately, there are no signs but there are always friendly guests that can point you in the right direction.
I suggest a picnic at Perry Farm Park right after the caves, or a trip to the children’s museum if it’s open. They have a fun barnyard playground, open area, and lots of picnic tables. If you are lucky you’ll score the gazebo. The caves are connected to the park, but it is a 1 mile walk. I suggest driving there, especially with little ones.
Be careful, take your time, and enjoy the adventure!
Have you been or are planning a trip to the Indian Caves? Let me know in the comments below. Feel free to share this travel guide with your friends and family.
