There’s nothing like staring into the night sky and seeing the Milky Way above, our eyes transfixed on something that’s bigger than all of us. While there are numerous areas to see the night sky clearly, there is only one place designated as an official Dark Sky Park in Illinois. For those of us who enjoy stargazing, a trip to Middle Fork River Forest Preserve in Penfield is a must.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is a 1,702-acre park filled with woodlands, wetlands, meadows, grassland, and prairies that are in the process of being restored. It is located in Penfield just two hours away from Chicago in the Champaign-Urbana area.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google
The Middle Fork River runs through the preserve and several ponds can be found throughout. It’s a popular place for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
Chad Mirus/Google
This preserve is both a Waterfowl Management Area, with over 130 acres used by nesting migratory waterfowl, and an International Dark Sky Park!
Miriam Sadkhin/Google
In 2018, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve was given the designation as the first Dark Sky Park in the State of Illinois by the International Dark-Sky Association. It is the only park with this distinction in the state.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google
So, how did this forest preserve become certified as a Dark Sky Park in Illinois? The Champaig-Urbana Astronomical Society lobbied to change the street lighting and created stargazing programs at the preserve.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google
With a bit of work and a focus on protecting the night skies, over time, it achieved all the requirements to become a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association. Today, visitors can view the night sky like they’ve never seen it before in Illinois!
Jennifer Albertalli/Google
If you want to spend more than just a few hours here at Middle Fork, the Harry L. Shwartz Campground is open from April 1 through the last week of October each year. What better way to take in the night sky at this Dark Sky Park than to sleep under the stars?
Chad Mirus/Google
Have you seen the dark skies at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve yet? Let us know in the comments! To plan your visit to this dark sky park in Illinois, visit the Champaign County Forest Preserve District website and Facebook page.
Middle Fork River Forest Preserve/Google
Chad Mirus/Google
Miriam Sadkhin/Google
Jennifer Albertalli/Google
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Address: 3485 County Rd 2700 E, Penfield, IL 61862, USA
