Wetland photography spot in Illinois

The Wetland Boardwalk is a tranquil park located at 22296-A Henning Road in Danville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore a unique wetland ecosystem via a raised boardwalk that winds through the marshes and ponds. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, observe diverse wildlife, and learn about the importance of wetlands for the environment. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Wetland Boardwalk is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with nature.

Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located in Momence, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wetlands ecosystem. With its diverse plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species, the preserve provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about the local environment. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

Carl and Myrna Nygren Wetland Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3714 West Rockton Road in Rockton, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve, owned and managed by the Natural Land Institute, features restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands along Raccoon Creek and the Rock and Pecatonica rivers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers like wild bergamot and sunflowers, as well as observe a variety of wildlife species, including migrating waterfowl and songbirds. The preserve is open to the public daily, with entrances at both 3190 W. Rockton Rd. for private events and 3714 W. Rockton Rd. for general admission. Visitors can explore the Dianne Nora Nature Trail, a 2.5 mile path around the wetland that offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, jogging, and cross-country skiing. The trail is free to access and open from sunrise to sunset, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in nature.

Kildeer Wetlands is a beautiful park located at 5600-5898 Flossmoor Road in Tinley Park, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis is home to a variety of wildlife and offers visitors the opportunity to explore natural wetlands and observe native plants and animals in their natural habitat. The park features walking trails, bird watching areas, and opportunities for photography and nature appreciation. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a learning experience in nature, Kildeer Wetlands is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Welcome to Arlington Wetlands, a serene park and tourist attraction located on Arlington Drive in Pontoon Beach, Illinois. Nestled within an 83-acre remnant meander of the Mississippi River, Arlington Wetlands offers a unique natural retreat just minutes from Granite City. Visitors can explore the site via a 1.5-mile unpaved walking trail that meanders across a floating boardwalk and through a beautiful sand prairie. While enjoying the scenic views and abundant wildlife, take advantage of the picnic tables and conveniently located trash receptacles throughout the park. Please note that no restrooms are available on-site.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction covering 891 acres of diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Acquired between 1938 and 2007, this preserve was previously a Boy Scout camp and now offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on its 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. Visitors can also enjoy camping at the primitive campsites, sledding on the 40-foot hill in winter, and geocaching with permits. The Plum Creek Nature Center on site provides nature education opportunities for all ages, with a natural playscape for outdoor learning experiences. With state-threatened or endangered plant and animal species, Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is a protected Illinois Nature Preserve dedicated to conserving its natural resources for future generations.

The Swamp is a unique zoo located in Brookfield, Illinois, United States. This one-of-a-kind institution is home to a variety of animals and exhibits that showcase the diverse ecosystems found in swamps around the world. Visitors can explore interactive displays, learn about conservation efforts, and get up close and personal with fascinating creatures such as alligators, snakes, and turtles. The Swamp is dedicated to education, conservation, and providing a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Come visit The Swamp and discover the beauty and importance of these unique wetland habitats.

Big Marsh Park is a sprawling outdoor oasis located in Chicago, Illinois. This expansive park, situated at 11559 South Stony Island Avenue, offers visitors a wide array of recreational activities and stunning natural beauty. As a popular tourist attraction, Big Marsh Park features hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll through nature or embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the wonders of Big Marsh Park and experience the best of the great outdoors in the heart of the Windy City.

Heron County Park is a picturesque and serene tourist attraction located at 22296-A Henning Road in Danville, Illinois, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, with lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind, Heron County Park is the perfect destination. With its beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Plum Creek Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 27064 Dutton Road in Beecher, Illinois, United States. This peaceful sanctuary offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature through its winding trails, lush forests, and serene wetlands. The center also features educational exhibits and programs that teach visitors about the local flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a hands-on learning experience, Plum Creek Nature Center is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Illinois.

Sand Ridge Nature Center is a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of South Holland, Illinois. This park and tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers, offering a variety of hiking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Visitors can explore the lush forests, serene wetlands, and scenic prairies that make up this beautiful natural area. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or embark on an outdoor adventure, Sand Ridge Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Tinley Park, Illinois, United States. This serene and tranquil sanctuary offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its lush meadows, winding waterways, and diverse wildlife, Bobolink Meadow is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is a peaceful park located in Matteson, Illinois, United States. This beautiful reserve is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and providing a serene escape for visitors. With its lush greenery, winding creek, and diverse wildlife, Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a scenic location for a leisurely hike, this reserve has something for everyone. Come explore and experience the tranquility of Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve.

Plum Valley Preserve, located in Crete, Illinois, is a 491-acre park that is part of the Plum Creek preservation system. This preserve protects forest and wetland habitats, as well as a portion of Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant and wildlife species, including reptiles, birds, and unique plant species like lobed violet and fire pink. The preserve features a 1-mile crushed limestone segment of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, perfect for hiking and exploring. Additionally, Plum Valley Preserve has a 9-acre off-leash dog park with three enclosures, one of which is exclusively for small dogs. The Burville Road access area offers a picnic shelter for rental, ideal for gatherings of up to 60 people. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs at the preserve by following their Facebook page. Make a donation to support the Nature Foundation of Will County and help enhance the education, conservation, and recreation programs at Plum Valley Preserve.

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge, located at 1042 Butter Ridge Road in Ullin, Illinois, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature. Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this refuge is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources for the benefit of present and future generations. Visitors to Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, hunting, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. The refuge is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including waterfowl, Indiana bats, prothonotary warblers, and bald cypress trees. Canoeing through the waterways is a popular way to explore the swamps and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Cache River State Natural Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 930 Sunflower Lane in Belknap, Illinois, United States. This natural area boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, including swamps, wetlands, and forests, making it a haven for wildlife and a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails, go birdwatching, or take a leisurely boat ride along the Cache River. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Cache River State Natural Area is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Heron Pond - Little Black Slough Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located in Vienna, Illinois, United States. This preserve offers visitors a peaceful and serene environment where they can explore the natural beauty of the area. With its tranquil pond, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, Heron Pond is the perfect place for nature lovers to enjoy a day of hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to reconnect with nature, Heron Pond - Little Black Slough Nature Preserve is the ideal destination for a day of outdoor adventure.

Amboy Marsh Nature Preserve, located at 1701 Morman Road in Amboy, Illinois, is a park and tourist attraction that was purchased by the Illinois Audubon Society in 2012. This 302-acre wetland complex is a rare and fragile portion of the Green River Lowlands section of the Grand Prairie Division. The preserve features black oak sand savannas, sedge meadows, and dry sand prairie, providing diverse habitats for native flora and fauna. The watery nature of Amboy Marsh makes it a unique and important environment, with springs, seeps, marshes, and wetlands supporting a variety of wildlife, including amphibians that rely on fishless ponds for breeding. Visitors to the preserve can enjoy birdwatching and may spot a variety of bird species, as documented in the Avian Breeding Community report for 2019.

Dragonfly Marsh is a serene and picturesque park located in Brookfield, Illinois, United States. This enchanting natural oasis is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the elusive dragonfly. Visitors can explore the winding trails, lush greenery, and tranquil ponds while enjoying the sounds of nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to reconnect with the great outdoors, Dragonfly Marsh is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Brookfield.

Little Rock Creek State Habitat Area is a serene park located at 4096 School Road in Chadwick, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural area is dedicated to preserving the local ecosystem and providing a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy. With winding trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife, this park offers a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and relax in a tranquil setting. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply unwind in the great outdoors, Little Rock Creek State Habitat Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Sugar River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 10127 Forest Preserve Road in Durand, Illinois, United States. This serene and scenic destination offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With lush forests, meandering trails, and the tranquil Sugar River running through the preserve, it is the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, Sugar River Forest Preserve is the ideal place to connect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.

quon Nature Preserve is a testament to this commitment. Located at 11304 North Prairie Road in Lewistown, Illinois, this 6,000-acre park is one of the largest floodplain restoration projects in the Midwest. The preserve offers a diverse range of recreational activities, from birdwatching and paddling to hunting and fishing. Emiquon is a haven for migratory birds, with tens of thousands stopping over during their migration routes each spring and fall. The preserve is home to a variety of wetland plants and wildlife, including bald eagles, white pelicans, and otters. Visitors can explore the park through hiking trails, observation decks, and boardwalks. Lake access permits are required for fishing and boating, and can be obtained at the nearby Dickson Mounds Museum. Emiquon Nature Preserve is a place of rich ecological diversity and historical significance, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the importance of wetland conservation.

Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 24621 North River Road in Wilmington, Illinois, United States. This park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, offering a unique blend of dolomite prairies, wetlands, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the tranquil surroundings, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the winding trails. The reserve is a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve.

Rock Run Rookery Preserve is a beautiful park located at 23065 South Youngs Road in Joliet, Illinois. This 224-acre preserve offers a variety of habitats including forest, wetland, and two lakes. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and canoeing/kayaking on the lakes. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the great blue heron and great egret. With a paved trail, picnic shelter, and boat launch, Rock Run Rookery is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for updates on upcoming programs and events.

Braidwood Dunes and Savanna Nature Preserve is a 315-acre park located in Braidwood, Illinois. Part of the Kankakee Sands preservation system, this nature preserve offers a variety of habitats including prairie, savanna, and wetland areas. Visitors can explore the unique crescent-shaped sand dunes that were formed when the area was the shoreline of ancient glacial Lake Wauponsee. Home to over 30 bird species, as well as amphibians and reptiles, the preserve also boasts a diverse array of plant species such as huckleberry and prickly pear cactus. Managed with invasive species control and habitat restoration, the preserve is dedicated to protecting its natural resources. With 0.50 miles of natural surface trails for hiking and running, Braidwood Dunes and Savanna Nature Preserve is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the preserve due to the sensitivity of its natural resources. Stay updated on news and programs by following the Braidwood Dunes Facebook page.

Fox River Shores Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 701 N Williams Road in Carpentersville, Illinois, United States. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore beautiful woodlands, meadows, and wetlands along the Fox River. With scenic hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, Fox River Shores Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Silver Creek Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 1009 Rawson Bridge Road in Cary, Illinois, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of Silver Creek. The park is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. With its peaceful atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Silver Creek Conservation Area is the perfect destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Palos Park, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Illinois landscape. With its lush greenery, tranquil waters, and diverse wildlife, Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve and experience the wonders of nature in this picturesque setting.

Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve, located on Division Street in Lockport, Illinois, is a 320-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system. The preserve protects a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of the Des Plaines River. Visitors can explore 0.43 miles of natural surface trails for hiking and running, while enjoying the diverse wildlife and plant species that call the preserve home. The site is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and monitoring activities to protect and enhance its natural resources. Due to the sensitivity of the site's natural resources, dogs are not allowed in the preserve. Visitors can stay updated on news and upcoming programs at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve by following their Facebook page. Additionally, donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation help support the Forest Preserve District's education, conservation, and recreation programs.

Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Mettawa, Illinois. This picturesque park spans over 1,000 acres and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails that wind through dense woodlands, tranquil wetlands, and serene meadows. The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography. With its scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.