Did you know that Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area is home to 12 state endangered or threatened species? This hidden gem in east-central Illinois encompasses 2.2 miles of the Little Vermilion River and provides critical habitat for 23 forest interior species, making it one of the most biologically diverse small parks in the state.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area is located at 19284 E. 670 N, Georgetown, IL 61846. The park is situated in Vermilion County, approximately 3 km (2 miles) south of Georgetown and about 16 km (10 miles) east of Danville.
Closest Airports
The nearest commercial airports to the park are:
- University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) in Champaign – approximately 56 km (35 miles) away
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – approximately 113 km (70 miles) away
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – approximately 225 km (140 miles) away
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
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Driving Directions
From Interstate 74, take exit 215 (Georgetown) and head south on IL-1 for approximately 3 km (2 miles). Turn east onto County Road 670 N and continue for about 1.6 km (1 mile) until you reach the park entrance on your right.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Park and other nearby attractions in Illinois.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, but certain seasons offer unique experiences and better conditions for outdoor activities.
Recommended Seasons
Spring (April-May)
Temperatures range from 10-23°C (50-73°F) with wildflowers blooming throughout the park. Spring bird migrations make this an excellent time for birdwatching.
Fall (September-October)
Temperatures range from 10-26°C (50-79°F) with spectacular fall foliage. The comfortable weather and fewer insects make this the ideal season for hiking.
Seasons to Avoid
Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 29°C (84°F). The park also experiences more mosquitoes and ticks during this season. Winter (December-February) brings temperatures as low as -6°C (21°F) with occasional snow, limiting some activities.
Always check the local weather forecast before your visit. The park can be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended year-round.
Getting Around Locally
Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area is best explored on foot via its network of hiking trails. The park is relatively small at about 365 hectares (900 acres), making it manageable to see most areas in a single day.
Trail System
The park features several interconnected trails that wind through various habitats:
- River Trail (1.6 km/1 mile) – Follows the Little Vermilion River
- Prairie Loop (0.8 km/0.5 miles) – Circles through restored prairie habitat
- Forest Trail (2.4 km/1.5 miles) – Winds through mature woodlands
Trail maps are available at the park entrance. Most trails are rated easy to moderate in difficulty, making them accessible for most visitors.
Where to Stay
While Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area does not offer on-site camping or lodging, there are several accommodation options in nearby communities.
Georgetown (5 km/3 miles)
- Small bed and breakfasts
- Budget motels
- Vacation rentals
Danville (16 km/10 miles)
- Chain hotels
- Independent motels
- Downtown accommodations
Nearby Camping
- Kickapoo State Recreation Area (22 km/14 miles)
- Forest Glen Preserve (19 km/12 miles)
- Turkey Run State Park (32 km/20 miles) in Indiana
Dining & Local Cuisine
While there are no dining facilities within Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area, the park does have picnic areas with tables where you can enjoy packed meals. For restaurant options, you’ll need to visit nearby towns.
Nearby Dining Options
Georgetown (5 km/3 miles)
- Local diners serving American comfort food
- Pizza restaurants
- Fast food options
Danville (16 km/10 miles)
- Full-service restaurants
- Steakhouses
- International cuisine
- Cafés and coffee shops
Picnicking in the Park
The park has several designated picnic areas with tables. These areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Grills are not provided, so bring your own portable grill if you plan to cook. Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities at Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Park Illinois
The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Here are the top things to do during your visit:
Hiking
Explore over 6.4 km (4 miles) of trails winding through diverse habitats including forests, prairies, and along the Little Vermilion River. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Birdwatching
The park is a haven for birdwatchers with over 200 species recorded throughout the year. Spring and fall migrations bring warblers, thrushes, and waterfowl, while summer residents include scarlet tanagers and indigo buntings.
Fishing
The Little Vermilion River offers fishing opportunities for species like smallmouth bass, rock bass, and various sunfish. A valid Illinois fishing license is required, and catch-and-release is encouraged.
Wildlife Viewing
Keep your eyes open for white-tailed deer, foxes, raccoons, and the occasional river otter. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Photography
Scenic vistas, wildflowers, and wildlife provide endless photography opportunities. The morning light along the river and prairie areas creates particularly stunning conditions.
Nature Study
With its rich biodiversity, the park is perfect for amateur naturalists. Bring a field guide to identify the numerous plant species, including rare and endangered varieties.
Enhance Your Park Experience
Discover guided tours and outdoor activities near Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Park to make the most of your visit.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area itself doesn’t host cultural facilities, the surrounding communities offer several options to enhance your visit with historical and cultural experiences.
Nearby Museums & Historical Sites
- Vermilion County Museum (Danville) – Local history exhibits
- Vermilion County War Museum (Danville) – Military artifacts and memorabilia
- Lincoln Trail Homestead State Park (Decatur) – Historical site related to Abraham Lincoln
Annual Events & Festivals
The surrounding communities host several annual events that you might want to coordinate with your visit:
- Georgetown Fair (August) – Traditional county fair with agricultural exhibits
- Vermilion County Conservation District Festival (September) – Nature-focused event with educational activities
- Danville Arts & Crafts Festival (October) – Showcasing local artisans and craftspeople
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area offers several specialized outdoor experiences for nature enthusiasts beyond the standard hiking and wildlife viewing.
Seasonal Outdoor Activities
Spring & Summer
- Wildflower identification walks (April-June)
- Butterfly watching (June-August)
- Limited kayaking on the Little Vermilion River (water levels permitting)
Fall & Winter
- Fall foliage viewing (October)
- Winter bird counts (December)
- Cross-country skiing on trails (when snow conditions allow)
Nearby Outdoor Recreation
For more extensive outdoor activities, consider these nearby options:
- Kickapoo State Recreation Area (22 km/14 miles) – Offers canoeing, camping, and more extensive trail systems
- Middle Fork State Fish & Wildlife Area (38 km/24 miles) – Features hunting (in season with proper permits)
- Turkey Run State Park (32 km/20 miles) in Indiana – Known for challenging hiking and rock formations
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area enhances the experience for everyone. Here are important guidelines to follow:
Park Safety
- Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive habitats and avoid getting lost
- Bring sufficient water, especially during warmer months
- Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain
- Check for ticks after hiking, particularly from April through October
- Be aware of poison ivy, which is common throughout the park
Park Etiquette
- Practice “Leave No Trace” principles – pack out all trash
- Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors
- Do not remove plants, animals, or artifacts from the park
- Pets must be kept on leashes no longer than 3 meters (10 feet) at all times
- Respect closed areas, which are typically protecting sensitive habitats or endangered species
Cell phone coverage can be spotty within the park. Let someone know your hiking plans if you’re exploring alone, and consider bringing a basic first aid kit.
Visitor Comments About Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Park
“We discovered this hidden gem while driving through eastern Illinois. The hiking trails are well-maintained and the diversity of plants and birds was impressive. We spotted three deer and countless songbirds during our morning hike. A perfect stop for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds.”
“As an international visitor, I was pleasantly surprised by this small but beautiful park. The Little Vermilion River trail was peaceful and scenic. The park staff were friendly and provided excellent information about local wildlife. Would recommend for anyone wanting to experience authentic Illinois nature.”
“Great day trip from Indianapolis! The prairie restoration areas were in full bloom when we visited in late summer, and the butterfly population was amazing. The trails are easy enough for families with children but still interesting for experienced hikers. Don’t miss the river overlook points.”
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your visit to Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area with these helpful tips:
What to Bring
- Refillable water bottles
- Insect repellent (especially April-October)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Field guides for plant and bird identification
- Trail map (available at park entrance)
Park Facilities
- Restrooms are available near the main parking area
- Picnic tables are first-come, first-served
- No potable water sources within the park
- Limited parking available; arrive early on weekends
- No entrance fee
Accessibility Information
The park has limited accessibility features. The main picnic area is accessible, but most trails are natural surfaces with occasional roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. Contact the park office at (217) 442-4915 for the most current accessibility information before your visit.
Nature’s Hidden Treasure Awaits
Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard State Natural Area may be one of Illinois’ lesser-known parks, but its biological diversity and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers. From peaceful forest trails to river views and prairie wildflowers, this compact natural area offers a genuine Illinois outdoor experience without the crowds of larger state parks. Whether you’re a dedicated birder, a casual hiker, or simply seeking a tranquil natural setting, Harry ‘Babe’ Woodyard welcomes you to discover its ecological treasures and create your own connection with this special place.
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