Silver Springs State Fish And Wildlife Area

A pool of clear bubbling water which sparkles like silver on sunny days provides the basis for the name of Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area. Even on extremely cold days, this pool does not freeze, and visitors marvel at the bordering beds of watercress. Majestic oaks and prairie grasslands provide a panorama of natural beauty to park visitors. The Fox River runs through this picturesque area which is also home to several small manmade lakes. A natural prairie restoration project gives visitors a feeling of the original landscape with native wildflowers, songbirds, waterfowl and upland game. Picnicking, fishing and hiking are popular pastimes in summer, with ice fishing, sledding, ice skating and cross-country ski trails available for the winter sports lover. For relaxing, exercising or just enjoying nature, Silver Springs is the perfect get away location. The state of Illinois purchased the original 1,250-acre area in 1969. It is located five miles west of Yorkville in Kendall County. An additional 100 acres have since been added to the site. A 30-acre prairie restoration project began in 1980 and continues in its development with the addition of 15 acres in 1991. The 45-acre prairie restoration area allows visitors to view an area similar to those once dominating the landscape before the settlers tamed the land. For visitors wishing to get a close look at the prairie grass, wildflowers, birds and animal residents, a one-mile mowed path winds through the site.