Background

River Bend Forest Preserve, River Bend Travel Guide

Search across countries, cities, destinations, landmarks, attractions, restaurants, bars, hotels and more.
Please tell us what you're looking for
4.7 (249)

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.

A brief summary to River Bend Forest Preserve

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring River Bend Forest Preserve.

  • Bring your binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons.
  • The trails are mostly gravel and grass, so wear appropriate footwear, especially after rain.
  • Consider bringing a kayak or canoe to explore Sunset Lake, but remember that only non-motorized boats are allowed.
  • Visit the Possibility Pier for an accessible fishing experience.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Lewis and Clark (Camp River Dubois) State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Apple River Fort State Historic Site

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Mississippi River

Mississippi River

Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site

Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site

Explore River Bend Forest Preserve on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near River Bend Forest Preserve, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of River Bend Forest Preserve

Buy tickets

  • No tickets available

Book tours with entry

  • No tours available

Book tours without entry

  • No tours available

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

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.

More to explore near River Bend Forest Preserve

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Explore More of River Bend

File:Monks Mound in July.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Looking beyond River Bend Forest Preserve? Discover River Bend for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.

Explore River Bend
Attraction

Discover the historic charm of the Inman Hotel in Downtown Champaign, a beautiful heritage building that highlights the city's rich architectural legacy.

Inman Hotel
Attraction

Explore Central Illinois history at the Museum of the Grand Prairie in Mahomet: exhibits, artifacts, and stories for all ages!

Museum of the Grand Prairie

Select Currency