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Anderson Gardens is a 10-acre Japanese Garden that was designed for John P. Anderson by landscape architect, Hoichi Kurisu. This tranquil garden offers waterfalls, ponds, streams, and winding trails. Anderson Gardens also has a tea house and a guest house for visitors. Internationally known for its design and maintenance, 25,000 visitors come to Anderson Gardens each year. Anderson Gardens in located at 318 Spring Creek Road in Rockford. Call (815) 229-9390 for more information.
The Rockford Park District provides residents with an abundance of recreational opportunities at its 16 parks. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, boating, swimming, golfing, fishing, picnicking, and much more. Wildlife, woodlands, lakes, rivers, and wild flowers are all accessible at the Rockford Park District. For more information call (815) 987-8800 or log on to the Rockford Parks site. www.rockfordparks.org
Established in 1910 by landscape architect, William Lincoln Taylor, Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a living museum with more than 150 acres of plants and trees. The arboretum combines native plants and plants from around the world to create a unique botanical experience. Visitors can explore the demonstration gardens, the children’s garden, the education centre, and the garden’s gazebo. The arboretum is located at 2701 Clifton Avenue. Call (815) 965-8146 for more information.
The Pecatonica Prairie Path is an 18-mile nature trail that runs from Freeport to Winnebago. The path cuts through villages, forests, and farms and crosses rivers and streams. There are more than 60 bird species found along the path. Bikers and hikers also enjoy the wildlife and wild flowers found along the Pecatonica Path. Call (888) 851-1559 for additional information on the Pecatonica Prairie Path.
Rock Cut State Park is a 3,092-acre park located in scenic Winnebago County. The park has much to offer its visitors starting with an extensive color-coded trail system. Rock Cut has 40 miles of hiking trails, 23 miles of mountain biking trails, and 14 miles of equestrian trails. Pierce Lake and Olson Lake provide fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. Other activities include camping, picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Visit Rock Cut State Park at 7318 Harlem Road or call (815) 885-3311 for more details.
Severson Dells Nature Center is a 369-acre forest preserve and a popular destination in Northern Illinois. There are 2 ½ miles of nature trails where you can view more than 180 species of birds. The butterfly garden is home to more than 50 plant species that attract nearly 20 different species of butterflies. Visitors should be sure to stop by the nature center located in a converted deer lodge. It has a library, bookstore, aquarium and several exhibits. The address is 8786 Montague Road in Rockford. For more details call (815) 335-2915.