Took a spontaneous trip up to the IL state beaches on an unseasonably warm late fall day and it felt like a true getaway. Driving into rural northern IL felt like leaving the craziness behind.

I brought my dog to an animal-friendly area of the beach, which was small and secluded. Parked in a chair with a friend and spent the day reading, drawing, and napping. Great environment for undisturbed relaxation.

Park facilities were great, but nothing fancy. We found ourselves walking around and encountering an abandoned hotel (or something like it), which was pretty cool and made for some interesting pictures!

This park is great for some outdoors time (alone or not) and seems like it’s less frequented in the early spring/late fall months.