Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area, State recreation area in Marion County, Illinois.
Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area is a sprawling state park with a large central lake and forest cover in Marion County. The landscape features oak woodlands and rolling hills that frame the main body of water.
The recreation area began in 1959 as a modest space with a small pond. Over the following years it developed into its present form through the construction of the main lake in the early 1960s.
The recreation area bears the name of Stephen Alfred Forbes, a naturalist devoted to understanding water ecosystems and bird life. This naming reflects how the site honors scientific contributions to the study of nature.
The Oak Ridge Campground offers lodging options with power and water hookups along with shower facilities. Water access is provided via a floating walkway that leads directly to the marina area.
The grounds feature nature trails and a sand beach for swimming that draw various visitors. Riders also traverse the property using dedicated equestrian paths spread across the landscape.
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