Heron Pond – Little Black Slough Nature Preserve
Heron Pond – Little Black Slough Nature Preserve, Nature preserve in Johnson County, Illinois, United States
The preserve spans 1,861 acres of wetlands, featuring cypress and tupelo swamps, limestone bluffs, and diverse forest ecosystems along the Cache River basin.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources established this protected area in 1971, receiving National Natural Landmark designation the following year for its ecological importance.
The site represents the northernmost extension of the Gulf Coastal Plain in North America, containing natural communities typical of southern ecosystems.
Visitors can access the preserve from Highway 45 south of Vienna, exploring the wetlands through a floating boardwalk and established hiking trails.
The preserve houses over 100 endangered species and contains some of the oldest bald cypress trees in Illinois, alongside a substantial heron nesting colony.
GPS coordinates: 37.36700,-88.95000
Latest update: March 10, 2025 18:38
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