Although East Central Illinois is covered with acres upon acres of crops, the forests have hidden magic, especially those wooded areas owned and managed by the Champaign County Forest Preserve.
The Riverbend Forest Preserve south of Mahomet is no exception. Land once mined for sand and gravel has left two lakes surrounded by approximately 150 acres of prairie and trees along the Sangamon River.
Once the property became part of the Champaign County Forest Preserve’s portfolio, they began to restore natural habitat by bringing in topsoil to stabilize the area, and planting more than 400 trees and shrubs, making the park accessible and safe for visitors.
Over the years, CCFPD has built 2.2 miles of hiking trails, including 1-mile nature trail and 1.2 mile multi-use trail. These trails are open year-round for walking, running, and biking. Horseback riding is not allowed at Riverbend, though.
Since opening, Riverbend Forest Preserve has become a favorite spot for people looking to fish or kayak. In 2019, CCFPD completed Possibility Pier, a universally accessible dock that allows visitors to fish or even have a picnic close to the water. In true CCFPD style, artificial aquatic weeds were strung from the bottom of the pier to attract fish.
A 2022 survey showed the lake contains largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie.
Non-motorized boats, including kayaks, can access Sunset Lake by the boat access point. Floating along the water is a great spot to watch the sun rise or set. Hikers are bound to see an abundance of wildlife too. The park is filled with deer, rabbits, squirrels, birds, ducks, geese, frogs, turtles, wild turkeys, and snakes.
It’s also known for the spring bloom of bluebells and magnificent colors in the fall months.
Horsetails may be easy to miss among all the greenery, but this prehistoric plant can be found at Riverbend. Equisetum has been around for nearly 350 million years and filled prehistoric forests. At that time, equisetum, or horsetails as they are more commonly known, could reach heights of 30 meters. Today, two species of Equisetum might reach about 4 meters.
Only about 20 species of Equisetum are left, and East Central Illinois has some at the Riverbend Forest Preserve. These plants existed before flowering plants and cone-bearing trees. So, the way they reproduce is also unique. They produce a cloud of dust from the head of the stalk that is full of spores.
Whether visiting for a picnic with friends or a hike along the Sangamon River, Riverbend Forest Preserve visitors feel a little more connected to nature. The park is open year-round, weather permitting.
