Immerse yourself in nature in any season at this prairie, forest and river setting just minutes from the city center.
The Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature Center offers outdoor activities and indoor displays providing opportunities to enjoy nature. Explore this lovely area year-round, with spring wildflowers, summer walks, fall foliage and winter cross-country skiing providing incentives for return visits.
The indoor Eco-Center features animal habitat information and wildlife sounds. See local fish and amphibians in the center’s aquariums. From the Window on Wildlife, observe woodpeckers, hummingbirds, cardinals and blue jays at feeding stations just outside the building. Learn about the area’s prairie, forest and river in hands-on exhibits. Several films, including Abraham Lincoln in Macon County provide additional information.
Watch for deer and other wildlife as you follow some of the nine hiking trails, from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours in duration. Several lead to the Homestead Prairie Farm, a restored 1860-era home offering a glimpse of rural prairie life. Borrow an exploration pack with binoculars and field guides to enhance your walk.
Run, bike, rollerblade or push a stroller along the 3.75-mile (6-kilometer) interpretive bike trail connecting Rock Springs and Fairview Park. Along the way, see the restored prairie, showing natural grasslands that were important in the history of Illinois. In winter, rent cross-country skis to travel along snow-covered trails or explore the pine forest.
The Sangamon River flows through the park, providing habitats for great blue herons and other water birds. Rent a kayak or canoe in the city and paddle serenely along the shallow river. Gaze into the depths to look for evidence of a wooden dam that powered Miller’s Mill in the 1830s.
The river provides a peaceful spot for fishing. Get an Illinois fishing license, borrow a rod and reel from the nature center and find your favorite spot along the river or at one of the four ponds in the park. You may catch trout, bluegill, largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, walleye or crappie.
The Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature Center in southwestern Decatur is open daily, except select holidays. Ride a bike here or drive and use the free on-site parking. Bring the family for a fun outing in pleasant surroundings.
