Forest Glen Preserve, Protected natural area in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Forest Glen Preserve is a protected nature area in Illinois containing mixed forest types, including beech-maple woods, oak-hickory forests, wetlands, and about 3 miles (5 kilometers) of riverfront along the Vermilion River. The landscape combines several distinct habitats within one connected property, creating opportunities to see different ecosystems in a single visit.
The preserve was founded in 1968 as the first county park established by the Vermilion County Conservation District to protect natural habitats in the region. This early effort helped set a precedent for land conservation in Illinois and shaped how the area manages its forests and wetlands today.
The preserve hosts the headquarters of the Illinois Native Plant Society and shelters several protected nature reserves like Duffin Woods and Doris L. Westfall Prairie. Visitors can walk through these areas and observe how native plant communities are maintained and studied by dedicated stewards.
The property has 50 campsites with electricity, running water, and shower facilities, plus 16 wooded backpacking sites with picnic tables and fire rings for visitors seeking overnight stays. Come prepared for uneven terrain and various weather conditions, and check trail conditions upon arrival to plan your route effectively.
A 72-foot (22-meter) observation tower provides elevated views of the Vermilion River and forest canopy throughout the year and across seasons. From this vantage point, visitors can see the full expanse of different habitats and spot wildlife like birds or deer at eye level from above.
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