Jeremy "Boo" Rochman Memorial Park — Attraction in Illinois

Tucked away on a quiet stretch of Giant City Road in Carbondale, Illinois, Jeremy “Boo” Rochman Memorial Park—affectionately known as Boo Castle Park—is nothing short of a living fairy tale brought to life. This privately owned gem, open daily from 9 a.m. to dusk with free admission (donations gratefully accepted for maintenance), isn’t just a playground; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Jeremy “Boo” Rochman, a 19-year-old Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast who tragically passed away in a car accident in 1993 near the very spot where the park now stands. Created by his father, Barrett Rochman, in collaboration with family, local artists, and community volunteers, the park opened in 2005 as a way to channel Boo’s boundless imagination into joy for generations of children (and the young at heart). What a profound and beautiful legacy it has become! From the moment you step through the welcoming gates, you’re swept into a whimsical world of medieval wonders. The centerpiece is an enormous wood-and-stone castle that’s far more than a static structure—it’s a fully climbable adventure playground complete with twisting tunnels, hidden passageways, winding staircases, and elevated battlements perfect for little knights and princesses to conquer. My own kids (ages 5 and 8) spent hours lost in the maze-like design, their laughter echoing as they dashed from one secret door to the next. Scattered throughout the 3.5-acre grounds are larger-than-life sculptures inspired by Boo’s painted action figures and D&D campaigns: a massive sleeping dragon coiled invitingly for scaling, stern-faced wizards perched on towers, fierce orcs guarding hidden nooks, and archers standing sentinel amid the greenery. Even in the cooler months, when a light dusting of snow caps the towers, the park retains its magical allure—like a scene straight out of a storybook. What truly sets Boo Castle Park apart is the evident love poured into every detail. The family funds about 85% of its $80,000 annual upkeep, with the rest coming from generous visitors, ensuring this free haven remains vandal-free and vibrant. It’s a place that sparks pure, unfiltered creativity—no screens, just endless opportunities for epic quests and imaginative play. While it’s geared toward younger adventurers (under 12 might find it most thrilling), adults can’t help but smile, reminiscing about their own childhood fantasies. We picnicked under the shady trees, watched families host birthday parties, and even spotted a community event banner fluttering in the breeze—proof that this isn’t just a park, but a beating heart of the neighborhood. If you’re road-tripping through southern Illinois or seeking a unique family outing, detour to 31 Homewood Drive without hesitation. Boo Castle Park isn’t merely a destination; it’s a portal to wonder, a testament to enduring love, and a reminder that from profound loss can bloom something extraordinarily joyful. Five stars aren’t enough—it’s a must-visit that lingers in your soul long after you’ve left the castle gates. Thank you, Rochman family, for sharing Boo’s spirit with the world. We’ll be back for more...

This park is a must see! It is a private park and I very much suggest reading the history of the park. The main feature is the GIANT wood and stone castle. Take your time going through it, there are countless details! Look up, down, and out! Other attractions are life sized sculptures of wizards, kings, dragons, and more! There are many areas with picnic tables comfortably in the shade. Outside of the fence is a small shed with two porta-potties for park guests. There is also a visitor center of sorts but we didn't go see it. The park is dog friendly as long as you clean up after it. The park can be used for parties, more information about that on their website. Parking didn't seem very abundant but I may not have seen all the available...

We were here for the eclipse in 2024, and I can't say enough good things about this park. We were here from about 8:30 am to 3 pm, and even after the eclipse was over we still had to pry the kids away from the park they'd been enjoying all day. The 2yo kept going back into the castle, and even the 11yo said he was still getting lost in it and finding secret passages. A fence encloses the park, though be aware there are 2 open gates on opposite sides. The only restrooms are port a potties, but they were cleaned and well-maintained. Though the castle is not handicap accessible, a disabled parent can easily come into the park and watch their kids play. The giant sleeping dragon was also a huge hit. Thank you so much for this...