Fox Squirrel-Walnut Point State Park

With its woods, water and wildlife, Walnut Point State Park in east-central Illinois has it all - from fishing, hunting and camping to hiking, picnicking and cross-country skiing. Conveniently located within a few miles of Interstate 57, U.S. Highway 36 and Illinois Route 133, the 671-acre site is 20 miles northeast of Charleston. Walnut Point was named for Douglas County's first pioneer settlement. No longer in existence, the community was established in the 1830's about 2 miles from the park site. The park opened in 1968 and is managed by the Department of Natural Resources. Although Walnut Point has numerous, developed recreational facilities, it still maintains many of its original natural features and attributes. Ash, oak, hickory, maple, walnut, locust and sassafras trees dominate the park's extensive wooded acres. The park features two winding and scenic tree-lined drives for motor vehicles. The roadsides are especially beautiful in the Spring when the redbuds and wildflowers bloom, while fall foliage colors are varied and spectacular. In addition, the park is home to a prairie restoration plot and a 65-acre nature preserve, Upper Embarras Woods.Within the park are many mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Bird watchers will find good viewing for several different species of songbirds, owls and raptors. Wood ducks, herons and Canada geese also can be seen on and along the lake. Because of its natural diversity and viewing opportunities, Walnut Point is among the sites featured in the "Illinois Wildlife and Nature Viewing Guide."