Sand Ridge State Forest

The area that is Sand Ridge State Forest is the result of a prehistoric dry period when more desert-like conditions existed. Today, it remains one of the few places in Illinois that supports an intriguing variety of plants and animals more associated with the southwest than the Midwest, including 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. A hand trap shooting facility and an archery range are available.

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