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

White Pines Forest State Park

Enjoy recreation on 385 acres, much of it forest, with a state park lodge and provisions for tent and trailer camping. It is also noted for its vine-covered limestone bluffs.

CITY: Mount Morris

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

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park

This beautiful 715-acre state park with a 40-acre lake derives its name from a combination of the town of Lena and the Latin work for water, aqua. The large tracts of wooded land include oak, hickory, walnut and pine trees. Woodland flowers are on display, especially in the spring and early summer, and wildlife is abundant. There is boating, fishing, a children's fishing pond, swimming, picnic and playground areas, shelters, trails for mountain biking, hiking and cross-country skiing, equestrian trails, sledding, hunting and camping. Camping supplies, bait and boat rental are available at the camp store that is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

CITY: Lena

Lena 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 available in season.

CITY: Lena

Winnebago County Fairgrounds

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

CITY: Pecatonica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wetlands Preserve

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

CITY: Freeport

Little Cubs Field

This replica of Chicago's historic Wrigley Field is complete with ivy, bricks, box seats, dirt and sod from the real Wrigley Field, plus a replica scoreborad and entry sign. It is open for exploring at no cost or is available for rental for birthday parties, picnics, corporate events and more. Rental fees are $45 per hour or $90 for two hours.Reservations may be made at our website.

CITY: Freeport

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

Spare Time Lanes (Lena)

Enjoy the fun of bowling.

CITY: Lena

McConnell Bobtown Landing

Enjoy the natural wonders of the Pecatonica River, Stephenson County's water trail, as is meanders nearly 60 miles through undisturbed Midwestern beauty. This landing offers ample parking, two picnic areas, portable toilet, 10' x 20' floating dock, fire pits and charcoal grills, two ADA fishing piers and canoe/kayak and boat launch. Camping at the site is available for canoes, kayaks and boaters. Reservations required.

CITY: McConnell

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

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

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

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

Lena Golf Club - Wolf Hollow Golf Course

The Lena Golf Club offers the beautiful Wolf Hollow Course with 18 holes, 71 par, 6,422 yards over wide open, rolling prairies. The club house features a full bar and one of the best short-order menus in the region. Fees: Monday thur Thursday: 9 holes - $15; 18 holes - $24; Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 9 holes - $17; 18 holes - $29; Motorized Cart Rental: (Per Cart/Per Person): 9 holes - $11; 18 holes - $16

CITY: Lena

McNeil's Damascus Landing

Enjoy the natural wonders of the Pecatonica River, Stephenson County's water trail, as is meanders nearly 60 miles through undisturbed Midwestern beauty. Access the river at McNeil's Damascus Landing which offers ample parking, a picnic area, fire pit and charcoal grills, portable toilet, 10' x 20' floating dock and canoe/kayak and concrete boat launch with access docking. Camping at the site is available for canoe, kayaks and boaters. Reservations required.

CITY: Lena

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

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

Kent Park

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

CITY: Kent

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

Richland Creek Trailhead

The Richland Creek Trailhead serves as the main trailhead for the northern end of the Jane Addmas Recreation Trail. It features parking, a large shelter house with electricity, lights and picnic tables, a restroom, water and a primitive campground area.

CITY: Orangeville

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lena KOA

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

CITY: Lena

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

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

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

Jaycees Park

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

CITY: Lena

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

Silkrug Stable

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

CITY: Stockton

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

Joseph Westwood Memorial Park

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

CITY: Pearl City

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory

A fascinating opportunity to see a wide variety of migrating birds banded and released. Special events in spring and fall, including the annual BirdFest in early May. Located in the Colored Sands Forest Preserve in the northwestern corner of Winnebago County. Colored Sands, site of original and restored prairies, is one of the most beautiful natural areas in northern Illinois.

CITY: Shirland

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

Park Hills Golf Course

This public facility offers two 18-hole, 72-par courses on gently rolling terrain. The West Course is 6,600 yards, and the East Course is 6,400 yards. Watered fairway, three sets of tees, a 300-yard driving range, clubhouse and pro shop are offered. This award-winning (3 1/2 stars Golf Digest) public course offers incomparable playing conditions. The gently rolling terrain, manicured greens and abundant wildflowrs make Park Hills Golf Courses the destinations for thousand of visitors every year. 2013 Fees: Weekday Green Fees: 9 holes - $15; 18 holes: $24; Weekend/Holiday Green Fees: 9 holes holes - $17; 18 holes: $27; Weekday and Weekend Motorized Cart Rental (for two): 9 holes: $18; 18 holes: $30

CITY: Freeport

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

White Pines Roller Rink

Fun for the entire family. Northern Illinois' largest roller rink. Top 40 music, live DJ, snack bar, arcade, complete supervision, birthday packages, private parties and group rates.

CITY: Mount Morris

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

Emerald Acres Campground

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

CITY: Pearl City

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

Jaycees Park

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

CITY: Lena

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

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