Located near Mt. Zion in southeastern Macon County, Illinois, Fort Daniel Conservation Area is a 200-acre site that is rich in history as well as recreational opportunity.

The conservation area includes oak-hickory forests, a sugar maple grove, open grasslands, and floodplain forests. Many unusual plants can be seen here including chinquapin oak, paw paw trees, wafer ash, and the Kentucky coffee tree.

There are trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, a pavilion and an open play area with a playground.

History of Fort Daniel

Fort Daniel Conservation Area's background includes tales of Southern sympathizers during the Civil War, and an old stagecoach route. The site takes its name from the legacy of Reverend Daniel Traughber, who between the years of 1838 and 1861 became one of the most influential and beloved men of this part of Macon County .

Trails

There are approximately 4.5 miles of trails available for hiking and cross-country skiing. The site abounds with beautiful wildflowers in the spring, provides shaded woods in the summer and fall and allows for animal tracking in the snows of winter.

Programs

Programs in both natural and cultural history are presented throughout the year at the Fort Daniel Conservation Area.