Middle Fork River Forest Preserve

Middle Fork River Forest Preserve contains 1,600 acres of land composed of old hardwood timber, reforested lowlands and grassy meadows. The lands of Middle Fork were set aside for the promotion and protection of wildlife as well as recreation. Rich in hiking and nature trails, the Middle Fork contains one of the region's premier Waterfowl Management Areas, and it is also home to a favorite camping area, the Harry L. Swartz Campground.

This site, located in the northeast corner of Champaign County, offers a swim beach, fishing, hiking, boat rentals, cross-country skiing, picnicking, building rentals and educational programs. It is an extensive, diversely wooded area. About four miles of the Middle Fork River run along the preserve. The site includes three ponds: Willow Pond (4 acres); Cypress Pond (2.7 acres) and Emerald Pond (3.2 acres).

Inside Middle Fork River Forest Preserve: Harry L. Swartz Campground, Waterfowl Management Area

The Harry L. Swartz Campground consists of 65 campsites, suitable for all types of camping including group camping. Fifty-three of the sites have electricity. Each campsite is a quiet retreat shaded by large oak, hickory and hackberry trees. Wildflowers grow in abundance. All sites are close to the swim beach and other facilities. Campsites are available per night on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are allowed for stays of at least three consecutive nights. For more information on the campground, please call 217/595-5692 or 217/595-5432.

This area also contains one of the region's premier Waterfowl Management Areas. More than 130 acres of prime nesting habitat for migratory waterfowl are located here. An easily accessible viewing area allows visitors the opportunity to observe a wetland teeming with life. Please note, however, that visitors are not able to enter the wetland area itself between March and June in order to allow waterfowl to nest.