As we head into the spring and summer seasons, the COVID pandemic is still the leading factor in planning for the reopening of both indoor and outdoor activities. Now that Region 6 has entered Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan, some facilities and services of the Champaign County Forest Preserve District can resume operation.
Here is what you can expect over the next few months:
Museum of the Grand Prairie
The museum will reopen to the public on Tuesday, March 2 and will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 1:00 – 5:00pm. Visitation will be limited to 25 individuals inside the museum at a time and only those with a reservation will be allowed in. You can reserve a time by visiting the museum’s website at www.museumofthegrandprairie.org or by calling (217) 586-2612. If you stop by the museum without a reservation, you may be able to make one on the spot by scanning the QR code outside the main entrance. However, we highly recommend calling ahead or making a reservation online.
Face coverings and social distancing will be required for all visitors. A mask can be provided if you’ve left yours at home.
Homer Lake Interpretive Center
Like the museum, the Homer Lake Interpretive Center will reopen to the public on March 2. Hours are 1:00 – 5:00pm Tuesday through Friday. Only ten individuals will be permitted inside the center at one time to allow for adequate social distancing within the building. No reservations are required but you may need to wait a short while to maintain the ten person limitation. Fortunately, Homer Lake Forest Preserve offers plenty to do while you wait your turn; take a walk on one of the many wooded trails or grab a seat on a bench by the lake.
Face coverings and social distancing are also required at the Interpretive Center, with masks available at the door should you need one. Contact the staff at the center if you have questions, (217) 896-2455, or visit www.homerlakecenter.org.
Campground at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve
The Harry L. Swartz Campground at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve will open for the season on Thursday, April 1. For the month of April, campground capacity will be limited to 50%. Assuming COVID metrics continue moving in the right direction, we expect to open the campground at full capacity on May 1. Reservations for the spring and summer season can be made online at www.ccfpd.org/forest-preserve/middle fork-river/campground.
Lake of the Woods Golf Course
Weather permitting, the golf course may be open for play from time to time during the month of March. Under Phase 4, the Lake of the Woods Golf Course can accommodate foursomes, with tee-times required and some restrictions on the use of carts and play. Please visit www.GolfTheLake.com for course opening information and restrictions on play. Under Phase 4, the snack bar can open in mid-April with limits on the number that can be seated indoors.
