Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area - map and other informations

Description

Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area is a beautiful nature reserve located in Grundy County, Illinois. Established in 1969, it spans over 2,500 acres and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The natural area is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the unique prairie ecosystem.

What to See and Do

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. Here are some highlights:

Hiking and Nature Trails

There are several miles of hiking trails that wind through the prairie, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.

Bird Watching

Goose Lake Prairie is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area. Visitors can spot various migratory birds as well as resident species such as sandhill cranes, meadowlarks, and red-winged blackbirds.

Picnicking

The natural area has designated picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. It's a great spot for families or groups looking for a peaceful outdoor setting.

Photography

The picturesque landscapes of Goose Lake Prairie provide ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts. From sweeping prairie vistas to delicate wildflowers, there's no shortage of subjects to capture.

Visitor Information

Here are some important details for travelers planning a visit to Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area:

Location

The natural area is located approximately 60 miles southwest of Chicago, near the town of Morris, Illinois. The address is 5010 N Jugtown Rd, Morris, IL 60450.

Hours

The natural area is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Facilities

Goose Lake Prairie has a visitor center where visitors can learn more about the area's history and wildlife. There are also restroom facilities available for public use.

Guided Tours

The natural area offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff members. These tours provide in-depth information about the prairie ecosystem and its inhabitants. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the visitor center for tour schedules and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area

Is camping allowed at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area?

No, camping is not allowed at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. It is primarily a day-use area for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.

Are pets allowed at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area as long as they are kept on a leash and their waste is properly disposed of. It's important to respect the natural environment and other visitors by following the park's pet policies.

Are there any entrance fees for Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area?

No, there are no entrance fees for Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. It is a free public park open to all visitors.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	0 °C 32 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	35 mm 1.4 in	18 mm 0.7 in
Feb	1 °C 34 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	34 mm 1.3 in	19 mm 0.7 in
Mar	9 °C 48 °F	0 °C 32 °F	66 mm 2.6 in	8 mm 0.3 in
Apr	15 °C 59 °F	5 °C 41 °F	111 mm 4.4 in	3 mm 0.1 in
May	22 °C 72 °F	12 °C 54 °F	132 mm 5.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	27 °C 81 °F	17 °C 63 °F	129 mm 5.1 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	28 °C 82 °F	19 °C 66 °F	83 mm 3.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	28 °C 82 °F	19 °C 66 °F	84 mm 3.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	25 °C 77 °F	15 °C 59 °F	74 mm 2.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	17 °C 63 °F	9 °C 48 °F	105 mm 4.1 in	1 mm 0.0 in
Nov	9 °C 48 °F	1 °C 34 °F	48 mm 1.9 in	4 mm 0.2 in
Dec	4 °C 39 °F	-3 °C 27 °F	52 mm 2.0 in	7 mm 0.3 in