River Bend Forest Preserve Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore the beauty of restored nature at River Bend Forest Preserve: hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife await!

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River Bend Forest Preserve

A brief summary of River Bend Forest Preserve

Explore the beauty of restored nature at River Bend Forest Preserve: hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife await!

River Bend Forest Preserve, located near Mahomet, Illinois, offers a diverse landscape of lakes, forests, and prairie, all born from a reclaimed sand and gravel mine. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, kayaking, and observing local wildlife in this 391-acre preserve.

4.7 Excellent · 249 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day7 am–7 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
1602 Mid America Rd, Mahomet, IL 61853
Phone
Website

Getting there

Driving

From Champaign-Urbana, take I-72 west to the Mahomet exit. River Bend Forest Preserve is a short drive north of the highway on Mid America Road. There are two parking areas within the preserve, one near the Possibility Pier with accessible restrooms and a picnic area. Parking is free.

Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to River Bend Forest Preserve, the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) provides bus service throughout Champaign-Urbana. From the Illinois Terminal in Champaign, you can take a bus to Mahomet and then use a ride-sharing service or taxi to reach the preserve, which is a few miles south of town. A one-way MTD bus fare is $1. Ride-sharing or taxi costs from Mahomet to the preserve will vary.

Discover more about River Bend Forest Preserve

Overview

River Bend Forest Preserve is a testament to ecological restoration, transforming a former sand and gravel mine into a thriving natural space. This 391-acre preserve features two lakes, including Champaign County's largest, Sunset Lake, alongside 2.5 miles of forest bordering the Sangamon River.The preserve offers a variety of activities. Anglers can cast a line from the universally accessible Possibility Pier, designed to accommodate visitors of all abilities. Hikers and bikers can explore over 2 miles of trails, including the Dogleg Loop and Woodland Trail, each offering unique views of the lakes and river. Keep an eye out for the 9/11 Memorial Woodland, a tribute to those lost on that day.River Bend is also a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, from cardinals and blue jays to eagles and waterfowl. The area is also home to deer, rabbits, turtles, and a variety of plant life, including the prehistoric horsetail. The preserve is open year-round, offering something to see in every season.

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