There are nice playgrounds, and then there are truly epic ones where imaginations can run wild. Hiding in Carbondale is Boo Castle Park, a private park that is open to the public and has the most unique playground in Illinois. The Dungeons and Dragons medieval-themed playground is one that kids and adults alike will love.
First opened in 2005, Boo Castle Park was created in loving memory of Jeremy “Boo” Rochman who passed away in a car accident. His family built this park featuring some of the things he loved while growing up like action figures, Dungeons and Dragons, and wizards which he painted.
DaveMagic/TripAdvisor You will see a few wizard sculptures around the park that were based on ones Jeremy painted.
The medieval Dungeons and Dragons theme is great for fantasy genre enthusiasts as well as families with children to visit.
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The detailed castle structure has knights standing watch, gargoyles, an ogre, and pennants, all reminiscent of a real castle. You can tell a great deal of thought went into its design and see why it’s one of the best playgrounds in Illinois.
Sabrina M/TripAdvisor
Kids will love climbing and exploring the castle structures and making their way through the maze. The jungle gym in the center has tunnels, stairs, bridges, and hidden passageways to create endless adventures!
Boo Castle Park/Facebook
Jeremy’s large sword collection is now part of the inner ceiling of a tower in the castle play structure. It’s quite exciting to see!
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The ornate and detailed sleeping dragon isn’t the only structure of its kind at the park. There are a few other dragons including one with three heads, goblins, and a pegasus, all of which add to the playground’s whimsical feel.
DaveMagic/TripAdvisor
Boo Castle Park is open during daylight areas and is free to use. However, donations are accepted with all proceeds going back into the park’s maintenance.
Boo Castle Park/Facebook
If you are looking for things to do outside with kids in Illinois, this medieval-themed, unique playground in Illinois is a great place to let imaginations run wild. Have you been here yet? Please let us know about your experience in the comments.
DaveMagic/TripAdvisor
You will see a few wizard sculptures around the park that were based on ones Jeremy painted.
Sabrina M/TripAdvisor
Boo Castle Park/Facebook
Marc62863/TripAdvisor
Boo Castle Park in Illinois has a website and Facebook page you can visit for more information.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 31 Homewood Dr, Carbondale, IL 62902, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Things To Do Outside With Kids In Illinois March 08, 2021 Melissa Mahoney What can I do with kids in Illinois? The Land of Lincoln is filled with family-friendly activities, but the best options are those you can do outside in the fresh air. There are several state parks where kids can explore nature and learn about the flora and fauna that are native to Illinois. Zoos can be found throughout the state from Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago to Aikman Wildlife Adventures in Arcola. Kids will have a fun-filled time wherever you go! Where can I find the best playgrounds in Illinois? Illinois has some pretty imaginative playgrounds if you know where to look. Blackberry Farm Adventure Playground in Aurora has a huge structure with tunnels, climbing ropes, and a zip line that will keep kids occupied all day long. In the Chicago suburbs, you can find Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground that is animal-themed and built out of natural materials. What are the best family-friendly hikes in Illinois? The Rocky Bluff Trail at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Carbondale has an easy loop path that leads to a waterfall. Fern Clyffe State Park’s Big Rock Hollow Trail is only 0.75-miles and leads to a 100-foot waterfall that kids will enjoy. Other short hikes that may be good to bring the whole family on can be found in our 10 Easy Hikes article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Things To Do Outside With Kids In Illinois
March 08, 2021
Melissa Mahoney
What can I do with kids in Illinois? The Land of Lincoln is filled with family-friendly activities, but the best options are those you can do outside in the fresh air. There are several state parks where kids can explore nature and learn about the flora and fauna that are native to Illinois. Zoos can be found throughout the state from Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago to Aikman Wildlife Adventures in Arcola. Kids will have a fun-filled time wherever you go! Where can I find the best playgrounds in Illinois? Illinois has some pretty imaginative playgrounds if you know where to look. Blackberry Farm Adventure Playground in Aurora has a huge structure with tunnels, climbing ropes, and a zip line that will keep kids occupied all day long. In the Chicago suburbs, you can find Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground that is animal-themed and built out of natural materials. What are the best family-friendly hikes in Illinois? The Rocky Bluff Trail at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Carbondale has an easy loop path that leads to a waterfall. Fern Clyffe State Park’s Big Rock Hollow Trail is only 0.75-miles and leads to a 100-foot waterfall that kids will enjoy. Other short hikes that may be good to bring the whole family on can be found in our 10 Easy Hikes article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
The Land of Lincoln is filled with family-friendly activities, but the best options are those you can do outside in the fresh air. There are several state parks where kids can explore nature and learn about the flora and fauna that are native to Illinois. Zoos can be found throughout the state from Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago to Aikman Wildlife Adventures in Arcola. Kids will have a fun-filled time wherever you go!
Where can I find the best playgrounds in Illinois?
Illinois has some pretty imaginative playgrounds if you know where to look. Blackberry Farm Adventure Playground in Aurora has a huge structure with tunnels, climbing ropes, and a zip line that will keep kids occupied all day long. In the Chicago suburbs, you can find Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground that is animal-themed and built out of natural materials.
What are the best family-friendly hikes in Illinois?
The Rocky Bluff Trail at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Carbondale has an easy loop path that leads to a waterfall. Fern Clyffe State Park’s Big Rock Hollow Trail is only 0.75-miles and leads to a 100-foot waterfall that kids will enjoy. Other short hikes that may be good to bring the whole family on can be found in our 10 Easy Hikes article.
