Illiniwek Forest Preserve
Explore Tours
In 1944 the Rock Island County Forest Preserve Commissioners purchased a 174-acre tract of land along the Mississippi River shoreline east of Hampton, IL for $40,000. This land was owned by Albert Oltman and was known as the Oltman tract farm. The Oltman tract was believed to be a popular place for Indian gatherings, so the Forest Preserve was given the name of Illiniwek, which means “favorite Indian spot.“ A bond issue was floated for $225,000 in 1944. Illiniwek received $100,000 of this bond for construction and improvements. In the late 1940’s a well and water system, roads, and parking areas were installed in this forest preserve. Throughout the 1950’s other improvements were added and a caretaker’s dwelling was constructed. Both modern and primitive camping facilities were made available to park patrons in the 1960’s. A hillside scenic overlook was constructed in the 1980’s providing picturesque views of the Illiniwek Preserve and Mississippi River.
