Franklin Creek State Park

Franklin Creek State Natural Area spans 882 acres of land, featuring natural springs, hardwood forests, bedrock outcroppings, and multiple forest ecosystems.

The 1847 construction of Lee County's largest grist mill utilized the water power from the mill spring, which remains the largest spring in the area.

The Franklin Creek Preservation Area Committee reconstructed an early-American grist mill in 1999, operating it as an educational center from April through October.

The park maintains 12 miles of equestrian paths, multiple hiking trails, picnic shelters with electricity, and facilities for cross-country skiing during winter months.

The geological formations within the park include New Richmond sandstone dating back 500 million years, representing some of Illinois's oldest rock structures.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1970

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/FranklinCreek.aspx

GPS coordinates: 41.84970,-89.33580

Latest update: March 6, 2025 06:06