Big River State Forest - map and other informations

Description

Big River State Forest is a beautiful natural area located in Henderson County, Illinois. Established in 1925, it covers over 2,900 acres of land and offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The forest is situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, providing stunning views and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Activities

There are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained at Big River State Forest. Here are some of the highlights:

Hiking and Nature Trails

The forest has several miles of hiking trails that wind through its diverse landscapes. These trails offer opportunities to observe wildlife, explore different ecosystems, and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.

Camping

Big River State Forest has a campground with both primitive and electric sites available. The campground provides amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities. It's a great place to spend a night under the stars.

Fishing

The Mississippi River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and Big River State Forest is no exception. Anglers can try their luck at catching catfish, bass, crappie, and more.

Hunting

The forest allows hunting during designated seasons. Popular game species include deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and waterfowl. Hunters must adhere to state regulations and obtain the necessary permits.

Wildlife

Big River State Forest is home to a variety of wildlife species. Visitors may spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, and numerous bird species while exploring the forest.

Natural Features

In addition to its diverse wildlife population, Big River State Forest boasts several natural features worth exploring. These include the Mississippi River, which offers breathtaking views and opportunities for boating and kayaking, as well as wetlands, forests, and prairies.

Visitor Information

Here are some important details to know before visiting Big River State Forest:

Location

The forest is located in Henderson County, Illinois. The main entrance is off Highway 34, approximately 10 miles south of Oquawka.

Hours

The forest is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Amenities

Big River State Forest offers picnic areas with tables and grills, a playground for children, and restroom facilities. There are also equestrian trails available for horseback riding enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Big River State Forest

Can I bring my dog to Big River State Forest?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Big River State Forest but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Are there any fees to enter the forest?

No, there are no entrance fees to visit Big River State Forest. However, camping fees do apply if you plan to stay overnight.

Are there any guided tours or programs available?

Currently, Big River State Forest does not offer guided tours or programs. However, the forest provides informational brochures and maps for self-guided exploration.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	1 °C 34 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	24 mm 0.9 in	16 mm 0.6 in
Feb	2 °C 36 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	31 mm 1.2 in	16 mm 0.6 in
Mar	10 °C 50 °F	0 °C 32 °F	66 mm 2.6 in	7 mm 0.3 in
Apr	16 °C 61 °F	6 °C 43 °F	101 mm 4.0 in	2 mm 0.1 in
May	22 °C 72 °F	13 °C 55 °F	126 mm 5.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	28 °C 82 °F	18 °C 64 °F	117 mm 4.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	29 °C 84 °F	20 °C 68 °F	66 mm 2.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	29 °C 84 °F	20 °C 68 °F	65 mm 2.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	26 °C 79 °F	16 °C 61 °F	87 mm 3.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	17 °C 63 °F	9 °C 48 °F	90 mm 3.5 in	2 mm 0.1 in
Nov	9 °C 48 °F	1 °C 34 °F	51 mm 2.0 in	5 mm 0.2 in
Dec	4 °C 39 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	44 mm 1.7 in	7 mm 0.3 in