Father’s Day isn’t just about gifts. It’s about time well spent — the kind that turns into a memory you’ll both talk about for years. Whether you’re planning something for your dad, grandpa, partner, or a father figure in your life, Carroll County offers a wide variety of ways to spend meaningful time together.

Here are some ideas based on what he loves most:

For the Dad Who’s Always Outside

If he’s happiest when there’s fresh air and mud on his boots, head to the great outdoors.

• Bike the Great River Trail starting in Savanna for scenic Mississippi River views. Stop at Arnold’s Bike Shop in Thomson to gear up or rent equipment.
  
• Cast a line together at Mississippi Palisades State Park or Lake Carroll. Fishing spots are plentiful — and peaceful.
  
• Hike the wooded trails at Spring Lake Wildlife Refuge and bring a thermos of coffee for a sunrise view worth the early start.

Don’t forget to pack a cooler and enjoy a picnic with a view. Sometimes, the best gift is slowing down together.

For the Dad Who Likes a Good Round of Golf

You know the kind — he loves the game, even when the scorecard disagrees.

• Book a tee time at Lake Carroll Golf Course, a scenic and well-kept course that offers both a challenge and a relaxing atmosphere.
  
• Or try Sandburr Run Golf Resort in Thomson, where you can combine golf with an overnight stay or dinner at the on-site restaurant.

If he’s competitive, a little family golf challenge could be just the thing.

For the Dad Who Appreciates Good Storytelling

Take a break from the usual and plan a night out at the theater.

• Timber Lake Playhouse in Mount Carroll kicks off its summer season in June, featuring professional performances that rival anything you’ll find in the city. Check the schedule and make it a whole evening — dinner at Molly’s Kitchen & Bar beforehand makes for a solid combo.

Live entertainment makes for an experience that feels just a little more special — and personal.

For the Dad Who’s All About the Food

Good food brings people together. And in Carroll County, there’s no shortage of places to grab a great meal.

• Take him out for a hearty breakfast at Brothers Inn Family Restaurant in Lanark.
  
• If he’s a burger-and-beer kind of guy, head to Mill Wheel Tavern in Milledgeville or Iron Horse Social Club in Savanna.
  
• For something more laid-back, fire up a grill at one of our campgrounds or picnic areas and cook up his favorite cut while the kids play nearby.

Bonus points: Treat him to a locally brewed beer or his favorite pie to wrap up the day.

Want to Make a Weekend of It?

Turn Father’s Day into a Father’s Weekend. Book a cabin at Hickory Hideaway in Shannon, a room at Seven Eagles Resort, or a family-friendly stay at Savanna Inn & Suites. Everything in Carroll County is a short, scenic drive away, so you can plan an active itinerary without ever feeling rushed.

Make Time. Make Memories.

Father’s Day doesn’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful. It just needs to be real, shared laughs, new places, and a moment to say thank you.

However you spend June 20 this year, we hope it’s filled with time that counts.

Tag your moments with #VisitCarrollCounty and #MemoriesThatLastALifetime — we’d love to see how you’re celebrating.