Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site, located in Elizabeth, Illinois, is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War. Black Hawk and his 200 warriors attacked the hastily erected fort on June 24, 1832. His story and that of the early settlers are told.

CITY: Elizabeth

The Twilight River Cruises

See the beauty of the Mississippi from the deck of a real, old-time riverboat. Relax, unwind and recharge!

CITY: Scales Mound

Long Hollow Scenic Overlook

This scenic overlook, located along the Great River Road on U.S. Hwy. 20, includes picnic tables, shelters and restrooms. Perfect place for photos to be taken as you can see a spectacular view of Jo Daviess County's rolling countryside.

CITY: Elizabeth

Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary

Tour Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary. Personally guided tours are available seven days a week year round for up to six people per tour, but all tours are by appointment. Animal lovers can learn about, pet, hold and feel some of the 350 rescued animals, comprised of 30 different species. All income supports the rescued animals. Critter Camp is a non-profit, tax exempt, charitable, volunteer operated, no-kill facility that does not buy, breed, sell or exploit any animal.

CITY: German Valley

Krape Park

This beautiful Freeport park offers an antique carousel, waterfall, seasonal duck pond, miniature golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a quarter mile nature trail, paddle boats, canoes, fishing, hiking, biking, a performance amphitheater, gardens, picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds including "Kid's Kastle", and sledding in the winter. The Yellow Creek Adventure Golf Course (miniature golf) is open daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day from Noon to Dusk. The Disc Golf Course is open during regular park hours and is free to play. The carousel is open prior to Memorial Day on weekends from Noon to Dusk and from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is open daily from Noon to Dusk. Yellow Creek boat rentals, including the duck paddle boats or the larger swan boat, are available daily from Memorial Day thru Labor Day weekend from Noon to Dusk. Park attractions are open seasonally; call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions.

CITY: Freeport

Mt. Carroll Garden Walk

Stroll the brick streets and enjoy unique historic architecture while viewing beautiful flower, perennial and water gardens. Garden vendors and a farmer's market will be stationed in the Courthouse Square.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Winnebago County Fairgrounds

Home of Winnebago County Fair, plus Pec Thing--huge bi-annual flea market and antiques sale

CITY: Pecatonica

Huff's Miniature Horses

Observe a small herd of miniature horses, and even groom the patient ones. Be sure to call and make a reservation.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Oakdale Nature Preserve

This Nature Preserve offers 133 acres of oak and hickory woodlands, restored prairies and shallow streams. Over four miles of winding trails are great for hiking, running, cross-country skiing, nature study and quiet reflection. Facilities, which are available to rent, include the Mogle Learning Center with meeting space for 20 people, a lodge with a kitchen and dining hall that can seat up to 80. The Oakdale Octagon Shelter has seating for up to 350 and a stage. Two picnic shelters as well as other picnic tables are available.

CITY: Freeport

4 Seasons Bowling Center

This is a 40-lane bowling center with automatic scoring, Thunder Alley sound and light experience, which is open to the public. Jumping Joe's Sports Bar & Grill, Flip Pizza Restaurant, & full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Artesian Well at Paradise Cove

Nestled along Indian Creek is a natural artesian well where thousands of gallons of pure water flow each day - as it has since 1927. A ten foot water wheel is turned continually by the flowing water. The sire, which is accessed by Stephenson County's only covered bridge, includes a waterfall, large flower beds and gazebo to enjoy while sipping the bubbling water

CITY: Winslow

Huron Farm Market

This multi-seasonal shop offers a garden center in the spring, a summer produce market, and fall and Halloween items in the autumn. From April thru October, also enjoy a flea market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

CITY: Eleroy

Andrew's Mill Park

Picnic area, pond for fishing & ice skating with handicap accessible fishing pier, Gerald Strohecker natural area with native woodland, prairie and wetland.

CITY: Pearl City

Jane Addams Recreation Trail

This multi-use 15 mile recreational trail offers beautiful scenery and is highlighted by 21 decked bridges passing over and through wetlands, creeks, woods, prairies, geologic formations and farmland. The trail is part of the Grand Illinois Trail that traverses Northern Illinois. Its crushed limestone surface may be used by hikers, bicyclist, snowmobilers, and cross-country skiers. An additional two miles of paved trail to Highway 26 has been constructed at the southern end. The final two mile connection into historic downtown Freeport will soon be under construction. The Jane Addams Trail connects at the Wisconsin state-line with Badger Trail which extends to Madison, Wisconsin. It will also connect, in downtown Freeport, with the Pecatonica Prairie path currently under development between Freeport and Rockford. Access to the trail is available at the Wes Block Access, Freeport (exit off Highway 26 1/4 miles south of the Highway 20 intersection).

CITY: Freeport

Mount Carroll Bowling Center

Join us for bowling -- stay for the fun! Full-service bowling center plus cosmic bowling, leagues and restaurant with daily specials. We can also host birthday parties.

CITY: Mount Carroll

Lincoln Park

Enjoy this park offering a picnic area, playground, shelter and restroom facilities as well as access to the Pecatonica Prairie Path which is currently under construction. The Pecatonica River may also be accessed for boating and canoeing approximately 200 yards from the park.

CITY: Ridott

Wetlands Preserve

57-acre wetlands preserve features wildflower, birds, and wildlife, which may be viewed from an observation deck.

CITY: Freeport

Spare Time Lanes (Lena)

Enjoy the fun of bowling.

CITY: Lena

4 Season Bowling Center

40-lane center with automatic scoring. Jumpin' Joe's Sports Bar & Grill and full service banquet facilities are also offered.

CITY: Freeport

Dakota Nature Trail

The Dakota Nature Trail for biking, hiking, and cross-county skiing links Dakota Park with the Dorothy Wirth Nature Area. The trail surface is crushed limestone and follows a former railroad right-of-way. The trail begins on Main Street in Dakota.

CITY: Dakota

Tapley Woods State Natural Area

Located 5 miles west of Elizabeth, IL, this 260 timbered acres provides public hunting areas, hiking and nature viewing.

CITY: Elizabeth

Read Park

Read Park offers many recreational opportunities and is highlighted by the Read Park Family Aquatic Center, which includes a zero depth pool, water slides and play area, and by a state of the art 11,000 square foot skate park, SK8 Park. This scenic park also features baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, an outdoor lighted hockey and ice staking rink, concession stand, picnic areas, shelters, and playgrounds. The Morgan Memorial, a charming statue of two children surrounded by fountains, is a serene spot to enjoy. Park attractions are open seasonally; please call ahead to confirm availability of specific attractions and costs.

CITY: Freeport

Hanover Bluff Natural Area

Hanover Bluff Natural Area provides great nature viewing opportunities within the forest and grassland areas as well as at the only public lake in Jo Daviess County. Sixteen-acre public lake. Largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish. No boating. Sign in/out at visitor parking. 350 acres for public hunting.

CITY: Hanover

Apple Canyon Lake Golf Course

Scenic, challenging nine-hole course carved into the Jo Daviess County hills. Full-service pro shop, bar, grill. Call for tee time.

CITY: Apple River

Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve

This nature reserve is the perfect place to bring the family. Hike 450 natural acres, home of nine Illinois endangered or threatened plants and animals. Hanover Bluff Nature Preserve is The Prairie State's 150th nature preserve.

CITY: Hanover

Apple River Canyon S.P. - Thomson/Salem Units

The vegetative cover is a mixture of steep timbered slopes and bluffs with grasslands, rowcrops, and hayfields predominate on ridge tops. The topography can be severe especially bordering the Apple River. This habitat should provide good hunting for squirrel, rabbit, turkey and deer. 1,150 acre area allows hunting, fishing; no boating/biking. See postings/fact sheets at registration. Sign in/out at lots #1 or #2.

CITY: Stockton

Iris and Jack Witkowsky State Wildlife Area

A part of the Apple River Canyon State Park Complex, the Iris and Jack Witkowsky State Wildlife Area is 1,100 acres for public hunting and nature viewing. Beginning of a transcontinental bluebird trail segment. Sign in/out at lots #1 or #4.

CITY: Hanover

Schurmeier Teaching Forest

Two miles of beginner and intermediate hiking trails, educational signage teaches about tree and forestry practices. This forest is the perfect way to spend the day. Horses welcome!

CITY: Elizabeth

Van Raden Memorial Park

The Van Raden Memorial Park features Lake Baalton, a three acre man-made lake stocked with bass, crappie, blue gill and catfish. A small shelter and playground area are also offered. A Veterans Memorial honoring all German Valley area service men and women, past or present is at the park

CITY: German Valley

Stephenson-Black Hawk Trail

This scenic 13-mile trail for hiking and biking through the rolling hill of northwest Illinois offers both history and nature. The trail, as it follows county and township roads, is partially paved. Attractions include early pioneer sites, one of the highest natural points in the state, and also Blackhawk war sites. Trail maps are available at the Lena Community Park District Office. For those who complete the trail, trail patches and medals are available for purchase.

CITY: Lena

Woodbine Bend Championship Golf Course

Immaculate 18-hole links-style golf course offers a challenge and a great time for golfers of all skill levels.

CITY: Stockton

All Veterans Memorial Park of Stephenson County

This park honors all of the veterans from Stephenson County. It contains large era stones from all conflicts. Benches surround concrete walkways, and a large brick memorial garden if featured. A Gold Star Family Memorial is dedicated to all who gave given their lives for our freedoms.

CITY: Freeport

Eilert's Tee Box

Play golf on over 50 resort courses from throughout the world at this premier indoor golf facility, offering high-definition video full-swing golf simulators. Also enjoy the cocktail lounge offering a bistro sandwich menu in a quaint, comfortable atmosphere.

CITY: Freeport

Friends Forever Humane Society Dog Park

Take your dog to this special 10 acre fenced dog park with a pond (for dog swimming ony). The park also offers a separate fenced area for small dogs and a dog agility equipment area. Fee is $5.00 per dog per day.

CITY: Freeport

Storybrook Country Club

One of the most challenging 18 holes in Jo Daviess County. The front 9 features water on every hole, while the back 9 offers some of the most beautiful holes in the area.

CITY: Hanover

Kent Park

Includes picnic and playground areas, a shelter, tennis court and basketball court.

CITY: Kent

Lena KOA

Visit the KOA for a complete variety of camping experiences. It's a fun place to be.

CITY: Lena

Schuldt Park

Located off historic and scenic Stagecoach Trail. Offers picnic and playground areas, ball diamond, basketball court, bird watching on seven acres. In Waddams Grove.

CITY: Lena

Brush Creek Golf Course

This is a 9-hole, 36 par, 3218 yard course set on challenging terrain with three sets of tees. Weekday and Weekend Green Fees: 9 holes - $10: 18 holes - $13.00; Motorized Cart Rental: 9 holes - $10.00 per seat; 18 - holes - $14 per seat.

CITY: Orangeville

Taylor Park - Freeport

Taylor Park was originally a trotting-horse track and gives this park its oval shape and flat terrain. There are picnic areas shelters, playground areas, a three-diamond lighted softball complex, a tennis court, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. A concession stand is open during softball season.

CITY: Freeport

Freeport Canoe Company LLC

Paddle the Pecatonica with The Freeport Canoe Company. We cater to group or individual canoeists, beginner or seasoned paddlers. At Freeport Canoe Company we offer family fun, scenic views, fishing, canoe transportation, and discounts for large groups. Enjoy canoeing from McConnell's Bobtown Landing to McNeil's Damascus Landing or to Tutty's Crossing in downtown Freeport. $50 rental per canoe. Ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult; ages 16 to 18 must have a parental consent form. Call to set a date and time for your paddle, 815-233-1065 or 815-541-0869.

CITY: Freeport

Fitness Lifestyles

This state of the art fitness center offers indoor swimming, cardio equipment, free weights, circuit training, massage therapy, an indoor walking and jogging track, nursery, a woman's only area, over 40 weekly fitness and aquatic classes, and more.

CITY: Freeport

Wapello Land & Water Reserve

Experience Native American mounds, prairie and the Apple River. Hike beginner trails. Pets welcome. Fishing allowed.

CITY: Hanover

Lions Park

Lions Park, at over 20 acres, features Splash Land Family Aquatic Center with a 180' waterslide, zero depth entry, many shade shelters, wet sand play area, water features and drop slide. The Splash Land Mini-Golf offers one of the nicest 18 hole miniature golf courses in the Midwest. It has over 275 plant varieties, 4000+ square feet of water areas, three waterfalls and challenges that the entire family will enjoy. The course is ADA compliant. Quench your thirst and your appetite at the Splash Land Food Court. Full restaurant offering sandwiches to soft serve and smoothies to salads - a true family food court. The park also offers picnic and playground areas, flower gardens, shelter house, a concession stand, volleyball and basketball courts, lighted ball diamond, batting cages and restrooms. A 110x110' ice rink is availabe in season.

CITY: Lena

Emerald Acres Campground

Offers 60 sites with electrical & water; also 90 permanent sites as well as tent sites.

CITY: Pearl City

Dodds Park

Dodds Park offers picnic and playground areas, flower gardens, three shelter houses, concession stand, two lighted tennis courts, volleyball and basketball courts, two lighted ball diamonds, horseshoe pits, batting cages and two shuffleboard courts.

CITY: Lena

Black Hawk Run Golf Course

Beautiful course, hidden in the hills, awaits golfers of all skill levels. Eighteen challenging holes, elevated greens, wide open fairways.

CITY: Stockton

Stage Coach Trails Livery

For those dreaming of harnessing, hitching and driving the big horses, here is your chance to enjoy an afternoon or a week. Stagecoach Trails offers good Belgian horses and good equipment for the beginner or old-timer wishing to relive days gone by. Come along and learn how it was done in days gone by! Our trails are located on some of the old original stagecoach and wagon trails. One most notably is the Frink-Walker Line, which ran from Chicago to Dubuque. On the trails we may find all kinds of wildlife including small game, deer, or perhaps the magnificent wild turkey. Come along, relax, and enjoy God's country.

CITY: Apple River

Ben Miller Memorial Park

This park provides a quiet scenic area ideal for family reunions and group gatherings. A large and a small shelter house, softball diamond, volleyball and basketball courts, playground, and wooded area are offered. A concession stand is open during softball season.

CITY: German Valley

Hideaway Park

Large, wooded park offers 43 acres of timber, grassland & bottomland with picnic and playground areas, hiking trails, canoe launch, handicapped accessible shelters and restrooms.

CITY: Pearl City

Joseph Westwood Memorial Park

Picnic and playground areas, shelters, tennis courts, ball diamonds, plus a recreation building.

CITY: Pearl City

Wards Grove Nature Preserve

Wards Grove is the best “mound forest” remaining in the Driftless Area. 335 protected acres of woodlands with populations of sensitive plant and animal species.

CITY: Stockton

Jaycees Park

This two acre park features picnic and playground areas, two sand volleyball courts, a soccer field, and a basketball court.

CITY: Lena

Winslow-Village Park

This scenic and unique camping area offers nine sites with electrical and water hookups. One sewer hookup. Playground, pets, recreational vehicles and campfires are allowed. Maximum length is 30 feet.

CITY: Winslow

Cedarville Skate Park

Skaters of all skill levels will enjoy the half and quarter pipes, pyramid, "roller coaster" and kink rails on the 7,500 square foot skate pad. The skate park is also open to bikes. Other attractions include a playground, sheltered picnic area, sand volleyball court, basketball court and ten fitness stations along a .5 mile blacktop walking path.

CITY: Cedarville

Rall Woods State Natural Area

280 acres for public hunting, hiking, nature viewing. Area has native hilltop prairies and views of the Mississippi River.

CITY: Hanover

Jaycees Park

Offers picnic & playground areas, sand volleyball courts, soccer field, basketball court.

CITY: Lena

Richland Creek Wetlands

A wetlands conservations area adjacent to the Jane Addams Recreation Trail. A wonderful spot for birding and watching wild animals.

CITY: Orangeville

Bobber's River Tap

Bobber's is an open, outdoor, deck bar and picnic area, along the banks of the Pecatonica River. A relaxing stop for travelers by road or river. Bobber's is a converted 95 year old lumberyard. Bring your own pole and boat, or just sit and relax with a cold drink and watch the river flow by.

CITY: Winslow

Skate Station

Family-oriented roller skating with video/redemption games and a complete snack bar including pizza. Birthday, private parties, and all night lock-ins are available.

CITY: Lena

Silkrug Stable

Enjoy Jo Daviess countryside in a horse-drawn buggy/bobsled. Ride at our place or yours. Call for information/reservations.

CITY: Stockton

Quarry Ridge Hunt Club

The premiere, upland-hunting experience in Northern Illinois. Quarry Ridge offers hunting (member or non-member) for rooster pheasant, dove, turkey, deer and moor. Dogs and guides can be provided if needed.

CITY: Lena