For those who think central Illinois is one big corn field, Sand Ridge State Forest will come as a very pleasant surprise. The forest is an island in a sea of agriculture. Just minutes southwest of Peoria, this 7,500 acre, largest of Illinois state forests, boast sweeping expanses of native oak-hickory timber, extensive plantations of pine, sprawling open fields, grasslands, and completely unique sand prairies. For a refreshing, invigorating taste of unspoiled nature and an opportunity to experience a genuinely distinctive and unexpected environment, Sand Ridge State Forest is ideal. The area is the result of a prehistoric dry period when more desert-like conditions existed. Today it remains one of the very few places in Illinois that supports an intriguing variety of plants and animals more associated with the southwest than the midwest. Those include badger, silvery bladderpod, pocket gopher and prickly pear cactus to name a few. The raw, undeveloped expanses of hardwood and pine blanketing the panoramic vistas contain miles of outstanding hiking, backpacking, snowmobiling, and horseback riding opportunities. Hunting of deer, turkey, pheasant, quail, dove, and squirrel is permitted. There is a hand trap shooting facility and an archery range. For the dedicated outdoors person this is truly an island of great opportunity to see how diverse Illinois is. For the day visitor, the forest offers picnic facilities and the chance for a fascinating experience with nature at the Henry Allen Gleason Nature Preserve. You can enjoy the pristine sand prairie in a protected area closed to vehicles and domestic animals. A bird watchers paradise, Sand Ridge State Forest is an important nesting area for a great variety of neo-tropical migratory birds such as ovenbird, indigo bunting, veery, and scarlet tanager. For further information please visit the internet site. The web page has many answers to questions you might have. Another source would be to give us a call at #309.597.2212.