McNaughton Park

McNaughton Park’s 850 acres contain some of the most impressive specimens of white oak in the entire Illinois River Valley. This mix of oak savanna and old growth forests is also a great spot for songbirds, butterflies, and wildflowers. Common birds, like Eastern Bluebird and American Goldfinch are often seen as well as some of the less common species, like Black and White Warblers, Hermit Thrush and Brown Creepers. Because of its role in providing habitat for a wide diversity of neotropical songbirds, McNaughton Park, along with Dirksen Park have been nominated for inclusion in the National Audubon Society’s Important Bird Areas Program. Equestrian enthusiasts should visit Rockin’ P Public Riding Ranch (309-382-1268), located in the center of McNaughton Park. The ranch offers guided trail rides, pony-on-a-lead rides, hayrack rides, horseback riding lessons, and horse boarding services for individuals or groups.