Outdoor Recreation
Discover the beauty of the midwest.
Discover the beauty of Mattoon’s parks and outdoor recreation. From hiking trails to fishing spots, Mattoon Tourism is here help you plan your next adventure in Mattoon.
Mattoon Public Parks
Lytle Park and Pool
Lytle Park and Pool in Mattoon, IL, offers a serene escape with its picturesque gazebos, tennis courts, and inviting family-friendly pool. With walking paths and lush green spaces, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor recreation.
3298 Cedar Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938
Peterson Park
Peterson Park in Mattoon, IL, offers a rich mix of history and recreation, featuring the historic Peterson House, the popular Grimes Baseball Field, and the Mattoon Lightworks drive-through Christmas display. Visitors can enjoy new pickleball courts, a fun play set for kids, and the excitement of the annual Bagelfest. With its wide range of activities, Peterson Park is a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
500 Broadway Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938
Vanlaningham Park
Vanlaningham Park in Mattoon, IL, is a peaceful green space featuring playground equipment and an open field area perfect for youth soccer, football, and baseball. With walking paths and plenty of space for picnics and relaxation, it’s a great spot for family outings. The park offers a welcoming environment for both active recreation and quiet enjoyment.
Turn at north at North 29th Street, follow it to Garfield Avenue, turn left, and in 1.5 blocks you will arrive at the parking lot.
Little Kinzel Park
Little Kinzel Park in Mattoon, IL, is a community-friendly space featuring a playground area, basketball court, and an open field perfect for youth soccer and football. With its versatile amenities, the park provides a great spot for outdoor activities and family fun. Whether you’re playing sports or simply enjoying the outdoors, Little Kinzel Park offers something for everyone.
Located in the southwest part of Mattoon at 28th Street and Marion Avenue
Cunningham Park
Cunningham Park in Mattoon, IL, is the city’s oldest park, established in 1858 and originally known as the Allison-Cunningham Park. Once adjacent to the now-demolished Washington Elementary School, it offers a small playground area, a basketball court, and a large open field for play. With its rich history and family-friendly amenities, Cunningham Park remains a cherished spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.
This park is located in the north central part of Mattoon at 12th Street and Champaign Avenue
Lawson Park
Lawson Park in Mattoon, IL, is a premier recreational destination, home to “Graham Field” Cal Ripken Baseball, and offering a variety of sports facilities, including four tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a batting cage. The park also features two pavilions and a large field area perfect for soccer, football, and baseball. In addition, a new playground was installed in the fall of 2011, thanks to the generous support of the Kiwanis Club of Mattoon. With its wide range of amenities, Lawson Park is an ideal spot for outdoor fun and family activities.
Located in the southeast part of Mattoon at 800 South 14th Street, Lawson Park was opened in 1923. The land was given to the City by Mrs. Jennie Pepper Lawson. There are two entrances to this park. One is just off of Marshall Avenue on South 13th Street, and the other is on South 14th Street at Walnut Avenue.
More Outdoor Attractions
Walking and Bike Path
The City of Mattoon boasts a scenic bicycle and walking path that begins at 10th and Richmond, following a former train track bed. Starting at the boy’s baseball complex, the path stretches all the way east to the City of Charleston, offering a peaceful route for cycling, jogging, and strolling. Thanks to a recent OSLAD grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the path has been extended to loop around the Roundhouse Complex, creating a 1.6-mile circuit from 10th St. to Logan and back. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk or an energetic bike ride, this path offers a beautiful way to explore Mattoon’s outdoors.
Lake Mattoon, Marina & Campgrounds
Lake Mattoon, Marina & Campgrounds in Mattoon, IL, is a scenic destination offering a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and camping. The marina provides easy access to the lake, and visitors can now enjoy the convenience of self-service kayaks for a fun and relaxing way to explore the water. With its beautiful setting and ample recreational options, Lake Mattoon is perfect for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed day on the lake.
Douglas-Hart Nature Center
Douglas Hart Nature Center in Mattoon, IL, is a beautiful natural oasis offering a variety of outdoor experiences. With its walking trails, wildlife habitats, and educational programs, visitors can explore the area’s diverse ecosystems and learn about local flora and fauna. The center also features a nature-themed playground, making it a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to enjoy the outdoors.
Mattoon Skate Park
This Facility is located at Logan and Shelby. It’s constructed of concrete, with ramps, steps, rails, etc and being used by numerous skateboarders and BMX bikes. The design was derived by the City’s staff and a group of skateboarders giving ideas and suggestions to Skate Park Designers. It was constructed as part of an OSLAD grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Grand opening was held October 10th, 2009 with skate board competitions. This is the only concrete skate park in the area so please help us maintain the area. It is open during daylight hours only at your own risk.