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Walnut Point State Park |
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2331 E. County Road 370 N.
Oakland, IL 61943
217.346.3336
The Area
With its woods, water and wildlife, Walnut Point State Park in east-central
Illinois has it all - from fishing, hunting and camping to hiking, picnicking
and cross-country skiing. Conveniently located within a few miles of Interstate
57, U.S. Highway 36 and Illinois Route 133, the 671-acre site is 20 miles
northeast of Charleston.
History
Walnut Point was named for Douglas County's first pioneer settlement. No longer
in existence, the community was established in the 1830's about 2 miles from the
park site. The park opened in 1968 and is managed by the Department of Natural
Resources.
The Natural Scene
Although Walnut Point has numerous, developed recreational facilities, it still
maintains many of its original natural features and attributes. Ash, oak,
hickory, maple, walnut, locust and sassafras trees dominate the park's extensive
wooded acres. The park features two winding and scenic tree-lined drives for
motor vehicles. The roadsides are especially beautiful in the Spring when the
redbuds and wildflowers bloom, while fall foliage colors are varied and
spectacular. In addition, the park is home to a prairie restoration plot and a
65-acre nature preserve, Upper Embarras Woods.
Within the park are many mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Bird watchers will
find good viewing for several different species of songbirds, owls and raptors.
Wood ducks, herons and Canada geese also can be seen on and along the lake.
Because of its natural diversity and viewing opportunities, Walnut Point is
among the sites featured in the "Illinois Wildlife and Nature Viewing Guide."
The Lake
The 59-acre, multi-fingered Walnut Point Lake is the focal point of the park. It
is stream fed and formed by an earthen dam located on the lake's Southern shore.
The lake has a maximum average depth of 12.5 feet and 6.3 miles of shoreline.
Except for electric trolling motors, boat motors are not allowed. Swimming is
not permitted.
Picnicking
Eight wooded picnic areas bordering the lake offer picnic tables, outdoor grills
and privies with designated parking areas close by. There are 5 large shelters
for groups, eight large tables with protective roofs, 2 sets of playground
equipment and 3 horseshoe pits. Drinking water is available. Firewood is not
provided but is available at the concession.
Hiking
Hiking and nature-study enthusiasts will find 2.25 miles of trails weaving
through the timber. By using the main park road and the Gray Squirrel-Twin
Points connection trail, walkers and joggers can complete a 3-mile exercise
loop. All trails are restricted to foot traffic only. The Lakeside Nature Trail
(.5 mile) is handicapped accessible.
Fishing
 With its many
fingerlike coves, Walnut Point Lake provides a beautiful setting for an angler
to enjoy a quality fishing experience.
Anglers can try their luck either on the lake - which supports largemouth bass,
black crappie, channel catfish, redear sunfish, bluegill and brown bullhead - or
along the banks of the Embarras River. Floating docks, fixed piers and two
single-lane boat launches are provided for lake access. Anglers are restricted
to pole-and-line fishing only.
Camping
Several types of camping are offered at Walnut Point State Park. "Class A"
camping areas offer campers use of electric hook-ups and a shower building with
flush toilets. In addition, "Class C" walk-in tent camping areas and a group
camping area (youth and adult) are available. Drinking water and a sanitary dump
station are provided. During cold weather, camp facilities are subject to
closure. Campers are reminded they are required to have their primary camping
unit with them before they can occupy a site and obtain a permit.
Currently, all Class "A and C" campsites are available for reservation. The
group camping area and two large picnic shelters are also reservable. Please
contact the park office for current information and specific details or view the
Reservations website.
Please note: Fox Tent, Gray Tent and Group Camp are "Alcohol Free" camping
areas.
Campsite Reservation Application | Campground Map
Winter Sports
Ice fishing and ice skating, both "at your own risk" activities, are permitted
on the lake when the ice is thick enough. Ample area also is available for
cross-country skiing.
Hunting
Archery deer, squirrel and limited raccoon hunting are permitted. Hunters can
contact the park office for current information or review the on-line Hunter
Fact Sheets. Walnut Point Hunter Fact Sheet | Willow Creek Hunter Fact Sheet |
Hindsboro Pheasant Habitat Area
Concession
A concession is operated from April through October for visitor convenience.
Items and services include food, ice cream, drinks, ice, bait, firewood and boat
rental. The concession phone number is (217) 346-3281.
Accessibility
Accessible and barrier free facilities are available for use throughout the
park.
Interpretive Program
Programs designed to help visitors better appreciate the site's natural
resources are provided on a seasonal basis. Contact the park office for more
information and specific details.
Directions
Walnut Point State Park is located 20 miles northeast of Charleston and 3 miles
north of Oakland. Interstate 57, US route 36, and state route 133 are three
major access highways in close proximity to the park.
* While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's
facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to
avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
* At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
* Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
* Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call
ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
* We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only
footprints.
* For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of
Economic Opportunity Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
* Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources
Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.
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