Sampson

Enjoy Spring in Urbana-Champaign

written by Maggie Sampson

As the weather improves, we can finally take advantage of the beautiful and exciting experiences central Illinois has to offer. Between budding campus fauna, small local gardens, and immersive State Parks, there is always nature to be enjoyed.

For on-campus activities to enjoy this spring:

Visit the Japan House and see the cherry blossoms in full bloom Located directly next to the Japan House, the University of Illinois arboretum is full of different flora and fauna to explore For a great place to hang out and have a picnic, Illini Grove is a small forest sanctuary from the miles of prairie surrounding campus

Fun off-campus activities you can take the bus or drive to:

Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens, open 7am to sundown. Located in Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve in Mahomet, IL, these gardens are a beautiful place to take a walk and explore. Maintained by the Champaign County Forest Preserve Department, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer as well! Kickapoo State park in Vermilion County, IL is set on 2,842 acres of preserved wetland, woodland, and prairie land. It's not just for hiking, when visiting you can also go canoeing, boating, fishing, camping, biking or even scuba diving! Check out Champaign-Urbana’s largest farmer’s markets: Urbana’s Market at the Square and the Champaign Farmers Market, for a fun way to eat healthy and sustainably!

For more ways to get involved with nature this spring and summer, check out the Champaign County Forest Preserve Department for events and volunteer opportunities.