Located in the northeastern part of Macon County , Friends Creek Conservation Area provides a variety of diverse habitats. This 526-acre site features two branches of Friends Creek, open meadows and tall-grass prairie.

Camping

It's time to get out the camping gear again! Friends Creek Conservation Area Campground opens May 1st!

Friends Creek Conservation Area Campground is open from May 1 through November 1. Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis or by reservation. Campground includes electric and non-electric sites, showers, flush toilets, and a dump station.

Daily fees for electric sites are $15 for Macon County, Illinois residents and $18 for non-residents. Daily fees for non-electric sites are $10 for Macon County, Illinois residents and $12 for non-residents.

Picnicking

Friends Creek features a beautiful picnic area with tables, grills and a playground area with two pavilions. To reserve a pavilion, call 217-423-7708.

Hiking Trails

Three nature trails provide great hiking through the area. Follow the Friends Creek Trail for a short, self-guided hike along the creek near the picnic area. The Sun Trail threads its way through floodplain, oak-hickory forest, and across the rolling hillside of a large meadow. For a walk through cool, shade-filled woods, try the Woodland Trail.

Historic Bethel School

Historic Bethel School, built around 1890 is a one-room schoolhouse, restored to its status as a community focal point. At Bethel School , you'll learn a bit about the early history of Macon County . Educational programs are offered to local schools in the spring and fall. Monthly open houses, held the first Saturday of each month April through October from 1:00-4:00, are open to the public.

Programs

Naturalists are available to provide public programs such as interpretive hikes, aquatic studies, annual astronomy adventures, and historical tours. Call 217-423-7708 for more information.