White Pines Forest State Park

Illinois State Parks , Mount Morris Illinois Campgrounds , Mount Morris Illinois Parks , Mount Morris Illinois Trails

Welcome to White Pines Forest State Park located in the heart of the Rock River Valley and forming the southern boundary of the old Chicago-Iowa trail, once the primary east-west route across northern Illinois.

Park Plants and Animals: Along the banks of the parks two rivers, Spring Creek and Pine Creek, grow blossoming plants such as the blue eyed grass, bloodroot, and trout lilly. Some of the parks wildlife include small mammals such as raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks. Please treat their home with respect.

Facilities: Some of the parks recreational facilities include miles of trails for both hiking and cross country skiing. The park also offers cabins that have heating, AC, telephones, DVD players, coffee makers and refrigerators. The parks White Pines Inn Restaurant be reserved for events including business retreats and weddings. The park also has the unique feature of concrete fords in the creeks that literally allow visitors to drive through them.

Park History: This land was once the home of the Black Hawk Tribe who were eventually forced out of their land during the Black Hawk War. By the early 20th century the land was one of the last remaining stands of white pines in Illinois and a movement was started by Ogle County Residents to have the land set aside as a state park. In 1903, a bill to do so passed through the state legislature but was vetoed. Another one in 1927 passed through the legislature and was signed into law. There is fun here for everyone so come on out and have a blast!

There are 103 class B campsites in this park. To contact the office call 815-946-3717.