Beautiful and educational. Kennekuk County Park.

  Photo by Tim A. DeVore

Kennekuk County Park is a beautiful way to spend the day and it's totally free of charge.

It is located at 22296 Henning Road just five miles west of Danville, Illinois with easy access from Interstate 74.

The land was originally purchased for use as part of the Middle Fork River Reservoir but never developed for that purpose due to environmental concerns. The park was founded in 1974. Whether you enjoy camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking, hunting, or just picnicking it can all be done here. There are 3,000 acres that comprise the park with 170 of those acres being Lake Mingo.

From wide open grasslands to thick wooded areas, and several lakes it is very scenic and well maintained. One of the neatest attractions inside the park is the Bunker Hill Historic Area, where you will find many historic buildings that have been moved there for preservation. They include: the Bismark Train Depot (built in 1874), Vermilion Chapel (built in 1886), the Atwood Home (built in 1892), the Neff Grocery Store (built in 1912), Red Oak School (built in 1917), and several other buildings that are all nicely restored and well cared for. Guided tours of these buildings are available for a very nominal fee, otherwise they are normally only viewable from the outside. The Vermilion Chapel is available for weddings and there are several enclosed shelters where receptions can be held as well.

If you find yourself in proximity to Kennekuk County Park, you should take the time to visit and make sure you allow yourself enough time to take it all in. The only thing that would disappoint you is if you forget to bring your camera!