Bureau County, Illinois tourism

Miller-Anderson Woods Nature Preserve

Dedicated in 1969, the 340-acre Miller-Anderson Nature Preserve contains a variety of natural communities, dominated by old-growth oak-hickory bluff forests and maple-basswood ravines. Other communities present include sedge meadow, seep spring (floating bog), and hill prairie. Notable plant species include showy orchid, queen-of-the-prairie, and Schreber's aster. The seep areas are characterized by large accumulations of peat (decomposed mosses), which support marsh marigold, skunk cabbage, and other interesting vegetation. The unusual mix of habitats here also support a rather unique mix of wetland and forest birds, as well as butterflies and dragonflies in the wetland and prairie areas.

A narrow, ribbon-marked, moderately difficult trail traverses much of the woodland habitat. The bluff offers panoramic views of the Illinois River wetlands where Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles (winter) can be
seen riding the air currents.

Site Access - Free
GPS - n 41.23922; w 89.40031
Site Contact - 815-244-3655

Directions:
From the intersection of SR 26 (State Route) and I 80 in Princeton, go south on SR 26 for approximately 9.5 miles. In Bureau, turn south (right) onto SR 29 for 4.1 miles to the preserve entrance on the right.