A long, narrow lake surrounded by fields and forests defines Washington County State Recreation Area. Water, open landscape and woodland together shape the character of this natural area. A marked hiking trail and campsites for tents and RVs also make the area appealing for trip planning. Nearby attractions range from distinctive habitats to museums, a movie theater and events. You can explore Washington County in different ways, depending on your interests.
Nature Between Lake and Forest
Posen Woods Nature Preserve lies east of Washington County Lake and within Washington County State Conservation Area. Its habitats include southern flatwoods, a dry to moderately moist upland forest, and communities of intermittent streams. These represent a range of ecological settings: forest areas alongside communities shaped by streams that flow intermittently.
Sipple Slough Woods Land and Water Reserve encompasses Category B southern flatwoods, as well as a shrub swamp and pond community. It is a high-quality example of a natural southern flatwoods community, one of the most endangered natural communities in the Midwest. For nature enthusiasts, the two preserves offer different perspectives on forest and wetland habitats.
Hiking and Camping at the State Recreation Area
Washington County State Recreation Area has a seven-mile marked hiking trail. Its stated length gives you a clear idea of what to expect when planning a hike. For camping, the area has sites for tents and RVs. It also offers electrical hookups and RV dump stations. If you want to combine hiking with an overnight stay outdoors, you can do both in the same recreation area.
Golf Overlooking Plum Creek
The first nine holes of Roland Barkau Memorial Golf Course run alongside Plum Creek and tree-lined fairways. Both the creek and the trees shape this section of the course. The golf course and clubhouse are open daily from 7:00 a.m. until dusk, weather permitting. Calling ahead is recommended before your visit.
Museums, a Movie Theater and Events
Heritage House Museum of Okawville comprises three separate museums. The Frank Schlosser Home includes a turn-of-the-century house, a barn, a harness shop and a commercial laundry. The collection ranges from a home and workshop to a commercial establishment, giving the museum complex a tangible historical dimension.
The other cultural attractions offer a range of experiences, too. The Washington County Fair showcases the county’s agricultural products. Films are shown at the State Theater in Nashville, the only true movie theater in Washington County, Illinois. Rainbow Ranch hosts Baby Bonanza, a ranch event held annually in April and May. If you plan to include the event in your trip, check the exact dates in advance.
Mineral Baths and History
The Original Springs Hotel includes a restaurant and mineral baths. It also has a clearly dated historical landmark: the first mineral bath associated with the hotel opened on September 16, 1868. If you’re interested in mineral baths, you can experience both a present-day offering and a chapter in the area’s history here.
Discover more destinations: Du Bois, Okawville, Clinton County, Cumberland County, Dekalb, Winnebago, Massac County, Macon County.
Return to the main travel overview: Illinois.
