Delabar State Park, State park near Oquawka, United States
Delabar State Park is an 89-acre preserve stretching along the Mississippi River, where oak, birch, and hickory trees form the forest canopy and wetland areas are protected for wildlife. The park sits where river backwaters meet dense woodlands.
Brothers Roy and Jack Delabar gave the land to Illinois in 1959, and the state officially recognized it as a park in 1960. Their gift made it possible to preserve this riverside area for the future.
The park draws birders who come to watch over fifty bird species in their natural surroundings throughout the year. Open meadows and thick woodlands give visitors different ways to experience wildlife along the river.
The park has camping spots with electrical service, drinking water, and two marked trails totaling almost 2 miles for hiking. Visitors can also launch boats to explore the river area.
During winter, the river backwaters freeze over, creating conditions for ice fishing and ice skating activities. This seasonal change draws many visitors who want to experience the frozen landscape.
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