Jubilee College State Park, River Bend Travel Guide

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Explore nature and history at Jubilee College State Park: hiking, camping, fishing, and historical sites near Brimfield, Illinois.

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Jubilee College State Park

Jubilee College State Park, located near Brimfield, Illinois, offers 3,200 acres of outdoor recreation and historical significance. Originally the site of Jubilee College, one of Illinois' earliest educational institutions founded in 1839, the park now features diverse landscapes, including woodlands, prairies, and Jubilee Creek, providing a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Jubilee College State Park

W Fussner Rd, Brimfield, Illinois, 61517, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jubilee College State Park.

Check trail conditions before you go, especially after rain, as some trails are multi-use and shared with horses.
Bring your binoculars! With over 160 bird species, Jubilee College State Park is a birdwatcher's paradise.
A valid Illinois fishing license is required for fishing in Jubilee Creek or the ponds.
Camping is available from April 15 to November 1, but reservations are recommended.
Visit the Jubilee College State Historic Site to learn about the area's history as one of Illinois' earliest educational institutions.

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Explore Jubilee College State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Jubilee College State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Jubilee College State Park is located off U.S. Route 150, between the towns of Kickapoo and Brimfield. From I-74 Eastbound, take Brimfield Exit #75, turn left onto US Route 150 and drive 4 miles; the park entrance is on the left. From I-74 Westbound, take the Kickapoo-Edwards Exit #82, turn right and go 1.5 miles to Kickapoo, then turn left onto US Route 150 and drive 4 miles to the park entrance on the right. Parking is available in various lots throughout the park. There are no fees for parking.
Walking

If you are near the Jubilee College State Historic Site, you can walk to Jubilee College State Park. From the Historic Site, head south on Jubilee College Road, then turn right onto W Fussner Rd. Continue onto N Kickapoo-Edwards Rd, then turn right onto US-150 W. The park entrance will be on the right. The walk is approximately 3 miles. There are no sidewalks along the road, so use caution. There is no fee for entering the park.

Discover more about Jubilee College State Park

Jubilee College State Park, a 3,200-acre expanse in Peoria County, Illinois, seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical significance. Once the home of Jubilee College, founded in 1839 by Episcopal Bishop Philander Chase, the park now offers a diverse landscape for recreation and exploration.The park's terrain is characterized by rolling hills, deep ravines, and the meandering Jubilee Creek. This varied topography creates a rich habitat for wildlife, including deer, rabbits, squirrels, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons. Birdwatchers can spot over 160 species, including wild turkeys. Jubilee Creek itself is home to smallmouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and carp, offering fishing opportunities for anglers. Swimming, however, is prohibited.Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 40 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In winter, the park transforms into a destination for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Camping facilities are available from mid-April to November 1, with options for RVs, tents, and equestrian camping. Winter camping is also permitted in designated areas.History buffs can visit the nearby Jubilee College State Historic Site, which features the restored college building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Although the college closed in 1862, its legacy lives on through the park's name and the preserved historical site.