Afton and Afton South Prairie
Afton’s original 240 acres was acquired in 1973 and the Afton South Prairie added an additional 76 acres in 2008. This area was restored to a beautiful forest preserve from a rolling eroded farm. About 285 acres have been restored to many native plant communities – prairies, wetlands and woodlands. Other features include large open green space areas, evergreen and hardwood tree landscapes, a playground, numerous benches, an observation deck, several picnic shelters, large picnic areas and 5 miles of hiking trails, including almost a mile of handicapped access trails. Cornell University’s Ornithological Lab, a premier bird research center, recognizes Afton Forest Preserve as a “National hot spot” for bird watching, with over 250 species of birds observed there since 2004. The mix of prairie, trees, shrubs, wetlands, stream, pond, grasslands and open space provides places for recreation, education and habitat diversity for birds and other wildlife.
FACILITIES AND RECREATION
- 316-acre nature area
- A mix of prairie, trees, shrubs, wetlands, stream, pond, grasslands and open space
- Handicap Access
- Cross Country Skiing
- Hiking / Fishing
- Historic Area
- Open Play Fields
- Picnic Areas / Playground
- Enhanced Shelters
- Open Air Shelters
- Restrooms / Water
Afton and Afton South Prairie Forest Preserve
13600 Crego Road
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-895-7191