State Parks and National Parks

Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area

Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area is named for the pristine springs that shimmer like silver in the sunlight.

Even on extremely cold days, the pool does not freeze, and visitors marvel at the bordering beds of watercress. Majestic oaks and prairie grasslands provide beautiful scenery. The Fox River runs through this picturesque area, which is also home to several small manmade lakes.

A natural prairie restoration project gives visitors a feeling of the original landscape with native wildflowers, songbirds, waterfowl and upland game.

Picnicking, fishing and hiking are popular pastimes in summer, with ice fishing, sledding, and cross-country ski trails available in winter.

Facilities at the 1,340-acre park include an equestrian trail. A campground is available for youth groups only.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources.