Free EV Charging Coming to Illinois State Parks, EVBox Donates 40 Chargers

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is introducing free electric vehicle charging stations at state parks across the state, making it more convenient for environmentally conscious travelers to explore nature. As part of this initiative, the first four charging stations have been installed at key locations: Frank Holten State Park in East St. Louis, Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area near Carlyle, Washington County State Recreation Area near Nashville, and Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area in Cass County. This move aligns with the state’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices and enhancing accessibility for electric vehicle users.

In addition to the initial installations, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources plans to expand the electric vehicle charging network with 40 more stations across various state parks, historic sites, beaches, and museums throughout the state. This expansion will include popular destinations such as Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County, Giant City State Park in Jackson County, Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area in Dekalb County, and William Powers State Recreation Area in Cook County, among others. By increasing the availability of charging stations at these iconic locations, the state aims to further support sustainable travel and provide greater convenience for electric vehicle users exploring Illinois’ natural and cultural treasures.

EVBox Donates 40 Level 2 EV Chargers to Illinois State Parks

An Illinois-based EV charging company, EVBox, donated 40 Level 2 chargers to the the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Those Level 2 chargers can typically refill a EV battery in around 8 hours. EVBox manufactures Level 3 DCFC EV chargers in Libertyville, IL.

Dan Fedor, Senior Business Development Manager at EV Box said: “At EVBox, we’re proud to help kick start the effort by donating 40 Level 2 chargers that will be installed at state parks, historic sites, museums, and other key locations across Illinois. These chargers make EV charging more convenient, supporting eco-friendly travel and enhancing access to our beautiful public spaces. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, public spaces are adapting to support the future of sustainable transportation. This is a huge win for both EV drivers and the environment!”

Representatives from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources stated that the newly installed Level 2 chargers will provide additional range to electric vehicles while visitors enjoy the trails, lakes, and other amenities at the parks. These chargers will be available free of charge, offering a convenient solution for EV users as they explore the state’s natural attractions.

This initiative is part of Illinois’ broader goal to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050, aligning with the state’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. By incorporating electric vehicle infrastructure into state parks and other public spaces, Illinois is taking significant steps toward a cleaner and more eco-friendly future. The initiative moves the state closer to its ambitious goal of 1 million EVs on the road by 2030.

Gov. JB Pritzker made the announcement Thursday at the Frank Holten State Park in Cahokia Heights.

“I am proud to announce that the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has installed the first set of electric vehicle charging stations at four Illinois state parks with the help of our partners at EVBox,” said Pritzker. “This is a milestone that brings us closer to reaching our ambitious goals of encouraging a reduction in fossil fuel emissions, advancing further electric vehicle adoption by making charging more convenient, and making it easier for people to explore all that our incredible state parks have to offer.”