“1,702 acres composed of old hardwood timber”
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve contains 1,702 acres composed of old hardwood timber, reforested lowlands, grassy meadows, and in-progress prairie restorations. Rich in trails, Middle Fork contains one of the region's premier Waterfowl Management Areas, and it is also home to a favorite camping area, the Harry L. Swartz Campground. This site offers a swim beach, fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, picnicking, building rentals and programs. About four miles of the Middle Fork River run through the preserve. The site includes three ponds: Willow Pond (4 acres); Cypress Pond (2.7 acres) and Emerald Pond (3.2 acres).
Now this is a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere by Paxton, Illinois.
The campground is very popular and I have no interest in checking out any of those trails. However, the North Waterfowl Trail is worth the drive just a few minutes away. The parking is very easy to miss but once you get there, it is gorgeous. It does not even feel like you are in Illinois.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is the only international dark sky park in the state.
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Middle Fork River Forest Preserve
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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