Illinois is one of the most underrated states when it comes to beauty and scenic views. This list of 15 beautiful photos of the Prairie State will prove that it's actually one of the most gorgeous places in America.

All of these stunning shots come from contributors to our Illinois Nature Lover's group on Facebook. From stunning skies to mind-bowing natural formations, these images are so gorgeous, they belong in galleries and calendars. Words can hardly describe how amazing they are. Check them out:

1. This yin-yang sunset over the lagoon in the town of Pekin, Illinois is so stunning it's hard to believe it's real.

Photo by Janice Seitz

2. This interior shot of Cave-in-Rock in Hardin County looks out over the most peaceful view of the Ohio River.

Photo by John Myers

3. Nestled in the Kane County Forest Preserve in South Elgin, Blackhawk Waterfalls is a hidden wonder located along the River Bend Bike Trail.

Photo by Somdeb Mukherjee

4. This storm over Jacksonville in Central Illinois looks more terrifying than it actually is.

Photo by Tim Butler

5. This night sky over an ancient farm in Wataga, Illinois is one of the most unique photos ever submitted to our Illinois Nature Lover's group on Facebook.

Photo by Brandon Erdman

6. This astounding shot taken along the river walk in Batavia is one of the most beautiful photos of reflections off the Fox River.

Photo by Somdeb Mukherjee

7. No filter is needed to capture a fabulous photo like this one at Garden of the Gods State Park in the Shawnee National Forest.

Photo by John Myers

8. You can see for forever in this incredible aerial photo taken during a sunset from the south side of Ottawa.

Photo by Ed Kazirskis

9. The way the water rushes away from this charming blue boat on the Calumet Sag Channel near Chicago is one of the most satisfying shots submitted to our Illinois Nature Lover's group on Facebook.

Photo by Naomi Fortino Hill

10. Here is yet another mind-boggling shot taken at Garden of the Gods State Park in Southern Illinois that proves the Prairie State is the most beautiful place on earth.

Photo by Gary Adams Jr.

11. Nothing beats a pink and blue sunset over the Illinois River near Ottawa.

Photo by Ed Kazirskis

12. This picturesque scene is certainly one of the most beautiful photos ever submitted to the Illinois Nature Lover's group on Facebook, and it was taken along Mendenhall Road near the town of Princeville.

Photo by Keith Sloter

13. This is Lake Falls at Matthiessen State Park near Oglesby, and it looks like it must be one of the most amazing places on earth.

Photo by Ed Kazirskis

14. Water flows like smoke in this stunning and unique image of the Fox River in Batavia.

Photo by Somdeb Mukherjee

15. Even in winter, Matthiessen State Park is one of the most wonderful places to go to take the most beautiful photos of Illinois.

Photo by Roland Saenz Jr.

For more great images like these, join our Illinois Nature Lover's group on Facebook here. Submit your best photos of the Land of Lincoln, and you may be featured in our newsletters, as a photographer of the week on Instagram, as well as in our articles.

For even more beautiful photos of the state, check out 12 impeccable views you can only find in Illinois.