Announcements Join the Fugate Challenge!     Complete eight fun outdoors tasks and earn rewards. At the preserve experience two events, develop two new skills, volunteer twice, and attend two educational programs. Find ideas in the posting below. There are no age restrictions, no time limits, and no fees. When you think you have completed eight outdoor tasks of your choosing, simply call a verifier and talk with them about your experience. Complete the Fugate Challenge and the Prairie Lands Foundation will post your picture on their website and reward you with a gift. More importantly, outdoor time promotes better physical and mental health. Attending educational programs and developing new skills is mind building. Volunteering builds community. Download Brochure

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*, sunrise to sunset, 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

Salamander Search
Saturday, March 8, 2025 - 3/8/2025  

Science educator, Scott Saffer, will be available to help find salamanders in James Woods.   [ more details ]

Bird Watching
Saturday, April 5, 2025  

Join Master Naturalist, Lenore Sebota, in watching and enjoying the migratory birds that pass through Fugate Woods  [ more details ]

Forest Therapy
Saturday, June 28, 2025  

Yoga and Wellness in the Woods with Master Naturalists Kathy Maclean and Tom Niebur.
  [ more details ]

Stargazing on the Prairie
Saturday, July 26, 2025  

Gaze at the stars over the Prairie with Twin City amateur astronomist Paul Pouliet  [ more details ]

Creatures of the Night
Saturday, October 18, 2025  

The Illinois Grand Prairie Naturalists are back with their Creatures of the Night programs for all ages to enjoy.   [ more details ]