Mitchell's Grove Nature Preserve

Mitchell's Grove Nature Preserve spans 184 acres of woodland featuring diverse habitats including oak savanna, prairie, and mesic forest along Tomahawk Creek and Little Vermillion River.

The Mitchell family protected this area since 1879, and William and Irene Mitchell donated the land to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in 1998.

The preserve maintains over 300 native plant species, including rare varieties typically found in northern Wisconsin and Canada, making it a center for botanical research.

Visitors can access the hiking trails without entrance fees and obtain information by contacting the preserve office at 815-667-4726 for current conditions and regulations.

The north-facing cliffs contain vegetation from the post-Pleistocene period, with glacial erratics and till demonstrating the effects of the Wisconsin glaciation.

GPS coordinates: 41.37753,-89.08917

Latest update: March 19, 2025 22:53