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Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area: A Natural Oasis

Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area: hiking, camping, fishing, and historical sites await!

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Nestled in the rolling hills of Henry County, Illinois, Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape of woodlands, prairies, and a serene 58-acre lake. Visitors can explore the area's natural beauty through hiking, camping, fishing, and discover the historic Ryan's Round Barn.

A brief summary to Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Visit Ryan's Round Barn, a unique architectural marvel, and check for tour availability.
  • Bring your fishing gear and enjoy a day at Johnson Lake, known for its bass, bluegill, and catfish.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic picnic areas, many equipped with tables and cooking stoves.
  • Hike the trails to experience the diverse landscapes, from rolling prairies to pine plantations.
  • Consider visiting during the winter for cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area is located off Illinois Route 78, approximately 5 miles north of Kewanee and 6 miles south of Interstate 80. From I-80, take exit 33 for IL-78 North and follow the signs to the park. From Kewanee, take IL-78 North. The park entrance will be on your left. There is no entrance fee. Parking is available throughout the park near trailheads, picnic areas, and the lake.

  • Walking

    From within the park, various attractions are accessible by foot. Trails connect the campground, picnic areas, Ryan's Round Barn and the lake. Trail distances vary from 0.25 miles to 1.5 miles. Consult the park map available at the entrance for specific trail locations. Note that some trails may have moderate inclines.

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Discover more about Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area

Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area, located near Kewanee, Illinois, spans 1,365 acres of diverse terrain, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. The park's landscape features rolling hills, a mix of hardwoods and pines, flatter grasslands, and a 58-acre lake perfect for fishing and boating. The area is historically significant, as it lies on what was once the Great Willow Swamp, attracting Native American tribes like the Sauk and Fox. French trappers and traders were the first Europeans to pass through, and the land became part of the Great Northwest Territory. The park's name honors both State Senator Frank P. Johnson and the Sauk Trail, reflecting its natural and historical importance. Visitors can explore 10 to 15 miles of trails, ranging from easy to moderate, that wind through various landscapes. Anglers can enjoy fishing in Johnson Lake, home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Only electric trolling motors are permitted on the lake, and boat rentals are available. Camping is available at the Chief Keokuk Campground, offering electric hook-ups and tent sites. A primitive cabin, Chief Tecumseh, is available year-round. Ryan's Round Barn, built in 1910, is a unique feature of the park, showcasing an architectural marvel with a full-size silo inside. The park also features several picnic areas with tables and cooking stoves, making it ideal for family outings. During winter, the park transforms into a winter sports haven with cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing. Bird watching is popular year-round, with diverse species inhabiting the woodlands and lake areas.

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