Area // Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit

Nygren Wetland Preserve

3190 Rockton Rd.
Rockton, IL 61072
(815) 964-6666
Visit Website // E-mail

Overview

Events

Nygren Wetland Preserve is a 721-acre tract near the confluence of the Rock River and Pecatonica River, making it an important stopover and nesting spot for many species of birds including Sandhill Cranes. The Natural Land Institute, a private, not-for-profit land conservation organization, owns the preserve and began restoration of prairies, wetlands and woodlands to the area in 2000.

Access to the Dianne Nora Nature Trail at the preserve is from Rockton Road opposite Hansberry Road, through land owned by Rockton Township. Walking is of moderate difficulty on the 2.5-mile grass footpath. The trail is open from dawn to dusk to hikers and cross-country skiers. A small parking area is provided. Water and restrooms are not available. Horses, other pets, bicycles and vehicular traffic are prohibited. The trail will be closed during critical wildlife breeding and migration seasons, when water levels are high and for vegetation management.

The preserve entrance at 2810 W. Rockton Road is open for special events and to volunteers who help with stewardship. Group tours are available by calling 815-964-6666.

Winter photos by Jill Kennay and Judy Barnard

Attraction

General

Directions: From I-90: Exit at Rockton Rd. and go west through the town of Rockton. (In Rockton, Rockton Road becomes Union St. until it exits Rockton on the west. The preserve will be on the south side of the road approximately 1.2 miles west of the city limits. From the south, exit Bypass 20 at Meridian Rd. Go north on Meridian until it dead ends at Shirland Rd. Turn right on Shirland, which will become W. Rockton Rd., and go east to the preserve entrance.
Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk, except during migration and breeding seasons