TheDAYTON BLUFFPreserve

The Dayton Bluffs Preserve encompasses a natural area of 253 acres. A local volunteer group known as the Friends of Dayton Bluffs helps with the restoration and management of both the site’s natural and historic resources. The Conservation Foundation and several other groups and volunteers also help manage the land of the Dayton Bluffs preserve.

Located at 2997 Illinois Rt. 71, this natural area allows visitors to explore many unique areas that are on the preserve. The property is home to woodlands, grass fields, cascades, and the Fox River. With plenty of trails to choose from and the variety of natural areas at Dayton Bluffs, there is always something new to discover.

At the Dayton Bluffs Preserve, nature and history come alive around all those who visit. The Conservation Foundation readily recognizes that Indigenous people lived on the land and as stewards of it, had a vital relationship with the land that now makes up the preserve, and areas outside of it as well. With Native American burial grounds on site, the area is both an important natural and archaeological one.

Those who run Dayton Bluffs also have a plan to expand what the area has to offer. More seating, water fountains, an outdoor classroom, bridges and so much more will one day be available to all guests. Dayton Bluffs is dedicated to being a natural area, accessible to everyone.

Dayton Bluffs is a great place to attune yourself to nature while recognizing the vast history of