Rock Springs Nature Center in Decatur, IL
Rock Springs Conservation Area and Rock Springs Nature Center are located at 3939 Nearing Lane in Decatur, Illinois.
Visit during expanded Thursday and weekend hours throughout the year.
Hours at Rock Springs Nature Center
Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, July 4, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas
Rock Springs Nature Center GPS Coordinates are 39.817713 N, 89.00932 W.
Rock Springs Nature Center is located on the southwestern edge of Decatur, Illinois. To get to Rock Springs from Decatur go south on Route 48 and turn right onto Rock Springs Road. Watch for signs. Plenty of free parking is available.
The Ecocenter at Rock Springs Nature Center
The Ecocenter is a museum exhibit located inside Rock Springs Nature Center, designed to help you explore the natural history of Macon County. You’ll hear the sounds of native wildlife and learn how animals cope with surviving in an ever-changing environment.
The Nature Center at Rock Springs provides hands-on learning for the whole family. Programs, demonstrations, and workshops are scheduled throughout the year.
Rock Springs Nature Center Hours
Monday – Friday: 8am to 5pm
Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm
Closed New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas
Business Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm
Window on Wildlife
A favorite spot for birdwatchers and photographers, the Window on Wildlife at Rock Springs Nature Center offers a view of the woods and overlooks a bird feeding area. Have a seat at the benches and enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife (heard through amplified speakers). From this vantage point, you can observe birds that live in Central Illinois year-round as well as those that stop in during spring and fall migration.
Make a donation to support feeding the birds at the Window on Wildlife:
Rent or Borrow Equipment for a Nature Adventure
Make your trip to Rock Springs Nature Center even more special by borrowing our fishing equipment or a Family Exploration Pack for free – just ask!
Fishing Equipment
Borrow fishing equipment for free at Rock Springs Nature Center to fish in our ponds for catfish, bass, bluegill, and more. Just ask a volunteer at the nature center’s Information Desk.
Family Exploration Packs
Borrow a free Family Exploration Pack at Rock Springs Nature Center’s Information Desk. Packs include nature guides, binoculars, activity ideas, collecting tools, and a trail guide with the best spots circled. These packs are designed with both novice and experienced hikers in mind. Themes include: birds, bugs, pond-life, forests, prairies, spring/summer, fall, and winter. Use the packs to create your own adventure!
Cross-Country Skiing Equipment at Rock Springs
Rock Springs Nature Center offers cross-country skiing for ages 5 and up. There are trails for novice and experienced cross-country skiers. Four or more inches of snow is required for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If in doubt, call 217-423-7708 to find out if conditions are favorable for cross-country skiing.
Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Rental Fees
$10.00 for 2 Hour Rental
Includes skis, boots, and poles OR one pair of snowshoes.
$20.00 for 24 Hour Rental
Includes skis, boots, and poles OR one pair of snowshoes. Twenty-four hour rentals may be taken off-site.
*Equipment available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cash preferred.
Equipment may be rented during Nature Center hours and must be returned at least 30 minutes before close. See Rock Springs Nature Center’s Hours.
Have Your Next Event at Rock Springs Nature Center
Rock Springs Nature Center has several room sizes available for rent. Room rentals may include: set-up, coffee makers, audio-visual equipment, tables, chairs, and use of kitchen facilities.
The nature center’s exhibits, art galleries, and staff are also available to provide fun, educational programs.
Rooms at Rock Springs Nature Center are perfect for:
- Wedding Receptions
- Family & Class Reunions
- Business Meetings and Conferences
- Birthday, Retirement, and Anniversary Parties
- Retreats, Seminars, and Classes
- Field Trips
