Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve: A Natural Oasis
Explore the serene beauty of Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve, a natural haven with old-growth forests and unique geological features.
Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve, the largest of its kind in St. Clair County, Illinois, offers a serene escape into a diverse landscape of old-growth oak-hickory forest and restored prairie. With over 200 acres, the preserve features sinkholes and the Homer F. Stemler Memorial Walking Trail, providing a tranquil experience for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve
- 2200 Stemler Rd, Columbia, Illinois, 62236, US
- +1618-295-2877
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as some trails can be rugged and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty and unique cave formations.
- Check for any special events or guided tours offered by the preserve for a richer experience.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from downtown St. Louis, take I-55/I-64 E toward Memphis. After about 10 miles, take exit 40A for I-255 N toward Chicago. Continue on I-255 N for approximately 8 miles, then take exit 24 for IL-3 N toward Columbia. After about 3 miles, turn left onto IL-158 W. Continue on IL-158 W for about 1 mile, then turn left onto Stemler Rd. The preserve will be on your right at 2200 Stemler Rd, Columbia, IL 62236. Free parking is available at the preserve. Limited parking is available.
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Public Transport
To reach Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve using public transportation, start by taking the MetroLink light rail from downtown St. Louis toward the East Side. Get off at the Shiloh-Scott station. From there, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the preserve, as public transit does not directly serve this area. The rideshare ride will take approximately 20 minutes and cost around $15-$25, depending on traffic.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, consider starting in Columbia. You can ride along the local bike paths and roads. From the center of Columbia, take Main St. north, then turn onto IL-3 N. Continue on IL-3 N until you reach IL-158 W, where you will make another left onto Stemler Rd. The preserve will be a short ride from there. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules. The total distance from downtown Columbia to the preserve is about 4 miles.
Discover more about Stemler Cave Woods Nature Preserve
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