TOP 10 Wetlands conservation 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.

The Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a nature park located at 8885 Illinois 37 in Cypress, Illinois. This institution is dedicated to educating visitors about the unique wetland ecosystem of the Cache River region. The center offers interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can explore the diverse plant and animal life that call the wetlands home, and learn about the importance of conservation and preservation efforts. With its picturesque surroundings and informative displays, the Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge - Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 7071 Riverview Road in Thomson, Illinois, United States. This refuge has been a sanctuary for fish, wildlife, and people since 1924, stretching 261 river miles along the Mississippi River floodplain. With over 240,000 acres of protected land, the refuge is a popular destination for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational activities, attracting over 3.7 million visitors annually. The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center provides valuable information and resources for visitors, including pool maps outlining areas for hunting, fishing, and recreation. The center also offers opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, from the summer sounds of frogs to the fall migration of birds.

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.

The Middle Mississippi River Wetland Field Station is a unique educational institution located on Gerard Road in McClure, Illinois, United States. This school is dedicated to studying and preserving the wetland ecosystems of the Middle Mississippi River region. Students at this institution have the opportunity to engage in hands-on field research, learn about the importance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity, and participate in conservation efforts to protect these valuable habitats. The Middle Mississippi River Wetland Field Station provides a one-of-a-kind learning experience for those interested in environmental science and ecology.

Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve is a serene park located at 5750 Best Road in Pecatonica, Illinois. This beautiful preserve is home to a diverse range of wetland habitats, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the winding trails that meander through the preserve, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve offers a peaceful retreat for all who visit.

Morris Wetlands is a beautiful park located at 930 Pine Bluff Road in Morris, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis is home to a diverse range of wetland habitats, providing a sanctuary for various plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the winding trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to reconnect with nature. With its picturesque views and serene atmosphere, Morris Wetlands is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

Gateway Wetlands is a serene and picturesque park located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, United States. This institution serves as a gateway to the natural beauty and biodiversity of wetlands, providing visitors with a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding pathways, and diverse wildlife, Gateway Wetlands offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Gateway Wetlands is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

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 the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District, your dedicated local government office located at 140 Williamsburg Lane, Waterloo, Illinois. Our mission is to promote the sustainable use and protection of our natural resources through effective conservation practices. We are committed to serving the community by providing expert guidance, educational programs, and resources that help preserve soil health and water quality in Monroe County. Whether you are a farmer, landowner, or resident interested in conservation efforts, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you in implementing strategies that benefit both the environment and the community. Visit us to learn more about our programs, services, and how you can contribute to a healthier ecosystem. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

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.

Discover the Natural Beauty of Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area Located at 1700 East, Illinois 60958, Kankakee National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area offers a serene escape into nature, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. As a treasured park and tourist attraction, it provides a sanctuary for a diverse range of resident and migratory wildlife within its riverine wetlands and oak savanna ecosystems.

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.

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve Camping Pod is a campground located in Crete, Illinois, United States. This nature preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland, and Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the 2.27 miles of natural surface trails. The campground consists of 9 primitive campsites that can accommodate families, small groups, and large groups. Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, with an accessible latrine and water fountain nearby. The preserve also features a 40-foot hill for sledding in the winter, and offers snowshoes for rental. The Plum Creek Nature Center provides nature education opportunities and a natural playscape for visitors. Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. Donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation support the conservation and recreation programs of the Forest Preserve District.

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.

Hammel Woods Recreation Area, located at 23601 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, is a 445-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the DuPage River preservation system. The preserve features forest and wetland habitats, and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are opportunities for shoreline fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the DuPage River. The park also offers a dog park, primitive campsites, and geocaching permits. With three access areas, Hammel Woods is a great destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration in the Joliet area.

Theodore Marsh, located on Fox Meadow Drive in Crest Hill, Illinois, is a 292-acre park and tourist attraction with a variety of habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant species and is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking at the preserve, which also provides access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the Joliet Junction Trail. The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental and permits for geocaching. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs by following the Theodore Marsh Facebook page. Plan your adventure at this beautiful natural area using the interactive map provided on the website.

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.