All around the Prairie State, there are numerous state parks and forest preserves where we can connect with nature. There are many fascinating and beautiful places to explore with such a diverse landscape of rock formations, prairies, plains, hills, canyons, and coast along Lake Michigan. And one of the most beautiful places in Illinois is a state forest you probably haven’t even heard of before.
Located in Oregon, Illinois, the 2,291-acre Lowden-Miller State Forest is one of the most breathtaking sites in the state.
Tom K/AllTrails
It all started when Frank O. Lowden was the governor of Illinois from 1917 until 1921. Because he believed in reforestation in order to slow down erosion, white pine trees and other tree species were planted among the natural hardwood forest. Over the course of the next several decades, over 500,000 trees were seeded in the area.
Eric Qiu/AllTrails
This lush forest was originally known as Sinnissippi Forest, an American Indian name meaning “rocky river.” It was named by Lowden himself along with his wife.
Gary Hughes/AllTrails
In 1992, the state purchased 1,186 acres from one of Governor Lowden’s grandsons by the name of Warren P. Miller. The additional acreage was purchased from Warren’s brother, Phillip Lowden Miller in 1993. The name was then changed to Lowden-Miller State Forest in honor of the family.
John Bohun/Google
Visitors have 22 miles of hiking trails as well as equestrian trails to explore the property. Whichever way you choose to explore, you’ll be amazed at the lush forest as well as…
Tom K/AllTrails
… the 120-foot bluff that spans along 3.5 miles of river. It’s one of the most scenic qualities of the Lowden-Miller State Forest.
Francis Keller/AllTrails
A hike through the grounds of this forest is magical, to say the least. You’ll feel as though you’re walking into a fairytale setting with all the beauty surrounding you!
Douglas Rogers/AllTrails
Tom K/AllTrails
Eric Qiu/AllTrails
Gary Hughes/AllTrails
John Bohun/Google
Francis Keller/AllTrails
Douglas Rogers/AllTrails
Have you visited Lowden-Miller State Forest yet? Let us know if you have in the comments or if there’s another favorite state forest or state park you enjoy visiting. For more information, visit the Lowden-Miller State Forest webpage.
If you love checking out the natural beauty around the Prairie State, check out these natural attractions.
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Address: Lowden - Miller Forest, Oregon, IL 61061, USA
