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Fugate Woods Nature Preserve is located in the abundant prairie croplands of Central Illinois, just 2 1/2 miles northeast of Fairbury, Illinois. This natural area contains more than 150 acres of native timber and restored prairie. Visitors are invited to hike the serene grounds and trails, rich in wildlife and native plants.

A variety of programs and events offer unique opportunities for all interested age groups. Fugate Woods also presents a living classroom environment for the public and charitable/education organizations.

Hours

Trails are open daily*, dawn to dusk, foot traffic only, pets must be leashed

*Excepting Mother's Day and firearm deer season.

For the preservation of the habitat and well-being of all visitors:
No Alcohol, No Firearms, No Hunting, No Bicycles, No Vehicles, Leash All Pets

Events

Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - 6/22/2012  9am - 11am daily:
Arts and Nature Youth Day Camp

Artistic adventurers invited! Come join in the discovery of the natural world through the arts. Fugate Woods and Prairie will serve as the backdrop and inspiration as you gain skills in sketching, photography and use of pigment to interpret nature's beauty. Projects, hikes and games await you along with friends.  [ more details ]

Saturday, July 21, 2012  8am - 1pm:
Scout Discovery Day

Local Scout Troops will enjoy a day of discovery exploring the wetland habitat of James Family Woods, experiencing the diversity of prairie habitat along the Bluestem Trail and working on restoration
activities in the woodland habitat of Fugate Woods Nature Preserve. Projects and activities will meet Scouting merit requirements and engage Scouting families in the wonder of nature along these trails, so easily accessable and available to the public under the direction of Prairie Lands Foundation.  [ more details ]

Monday, July 30, 2012  4pm -7pm:
A Prairie Primer Hands-On Workshop

Come play and learn to utilize Fugate Woods Nature Preserve and associated trails as you encourage young children to connect with
nature. Join other FORMAL and NON-FORMAL EDUCATORS, PRE-SCHOOL and DAY-CARE PROVIDERS in a lively exploration of activities which incorporate environmental education into your 3-7 YEAR-OLD programming and play time. Following a steward-led hike up the Bluestem Trail into the prairie in full summer bloom, Deb Ruff, inspired Soil and Water Conservation District Educator, and the Fugate Woods Steward will lead participants through crafts, science, reading and physical activities that will enhance the opportunity to get outdoors any time of the year. Activity samples, associated reading list, and a light picnic supper will be provided. NAEYC, Head Start and Illinois Learning Standards aligned.  [ more details ]

Monday, August 6, 2012  10am:
Wild About the Prairie Story Hour

The Fugate Woods Steward will join library staff for a PRAIRIE ADVENTURE during Monday STORY HOUR. Join in and Get Wild about Fugate Woods Prairie along the Bluestem Trail! Pick a spot to settle in on a quilt and become part of the prairie through the magic of a book.  [ more details ]

For more information about any of these events, please see our Events page, or call The Woods Steward at: 815-692-8003