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 Emiquon Lakeside Observatory, Emiquon Nature Preserve - Lewiston, IL Posted by:  NorStar
N 40° 21.190 W 090° 05.110
15T E 747540 N 4471035
Emiquon Lakeside Observatory, filling in between two U.S. National Wildlife Reserves, oversees 7000 acres of Nature Conservancy property where the land is being restored as wetlands along the Illinois River.
Waymark Code: WMWM5R
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 09/17/2017
Views: 0
Near Lewistown, along Illinois Route 78, is the Emiquon Lakeside Observatory, which is a publicly accessible point for the Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Nature Preserve.
The entrance is from Route 78, a few miles south of the intersection with U.S. Route 20. At the entrance is a sign, "Emiquon Lakeside Observatory" and below, "The Nature Conservancy."
The property as explained from a few sites, is about 7,000 acres and is mostly in a large wetland area. However, this area was once drained and used as farmland for 80 years. Now, the process is being reversed, giving the Illinois River a safe place to expand during high water flows. There is a shelter that has displays that are about their efforts.
The lakeside observatory allows access points where there are observation lookouts to view birds and aquatic life. At the time of visit, white pelicans, killdeer, and terns were observed.
Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 7000 acres
Is there a trail system?: Yes
If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.:
A short network of trails, probably no more than a mile-worth, all of it flat terrain. There are observing places.
What points of interest are there?:
Two overlooks, one at the end of a pier out into the shallow lake, the other at a raised observation platform.
What activities are available?:
There is a boat ramp. Also, hunting opportunities are available - contact TNC.
Hours of accessibility?: Daylight hours.
List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.):
I suppose that there could be poisonous snakes like timber rattler and massasauga (though likely very rare). Poison ivy is probably present, though I did not see any.
Dogs Allowed?: No
Is a permit/fee required?: No
If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.:
No fee.
Please supply the website of the land if available: [Web Link]
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Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!
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