Sand Creek Conservation Area
S. Franklin St. Rd., Decatur, IL 62521
Hiking & Trails

Sand Creek is a 755-acre open space site located just south of Decatur off South Franklin Street and is open to hikers & horseback riders.
Hike over 7.5 total miles of the trails varying in difficulty to the bluff overlooking Sand Creek for panoramic view of the countryside. Sand Creek is primarily known for its hiking and horse trail that winds through forest, open prairie, and floodplain. In addition to wildlife and natural habitat, part of the historic Paris-Springfield Road passes through the grounds.
The historic Paris-Springfield Road, established in 1824, ran through part of what is now Sand Creek Conservation Area. Among the many people moving west in the early nineteenth century, Abraham Lincoln and his family traveled this section of the road when coming to Decatur from Indiana in March of 1830. Westward travelers going to California and Oregon continued to use the road in the 1840s and 1850s. Trail signs stand along the old roadbed for those who wish to walk in “Mr. Lincoln’s footsteps.”
What's happening nearby...

The Linda Ronstadt Experience at the Lincoln Square Theater
Lincoln Square Theater • Oct 25 @ 7PM
Experience the magic of Linda Ronstadt’s legendary music with the Linda Ronstadt Experience, featuring American Idol star Tristan McIntosh.
Read more about The Linda Ronstadt Experience at the Lincoln Square Theater
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at Kirkland Fine Arts Center
Kirkland Fine Arts Center • Nov 02 @ 4PM
Experience the magic of the holidays as Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet returns to Decatur’s Kirkland Fine Arts Center!
Read more about Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at Kirkland Fine Arts Center
Pride of the Prairie Fall Marble Show
Garner by IHG • Nov 08 @ 8AM
Celebrate color, craftsmanship, and nostalgia at the Pride of the Prairie Fall Marble Show—a one-of-a-kind event held in Decatur, Illinois!
Read more about Pride of the Prairie Fall Marble ShowYou might also be interested...

Macon County Conservation District
Decatur
We’re your backyard. A 3,300 acre backyard offering you natural areas, wildlife, historic sites, hiking, camping, and events all year.
Read more about Macon County Conservation District
Rock Springs Nature Center
Decatur
Rock Springs Conservation Area and Rock Springs Nature Center are located at 3939 Nearing Lane in Decatur, Illinois.
Read more about Rock Springs Nature Center
Griswold Conservation Area
Decatur
The site features one of the glacial kame “mounds” of the Blue Mound area. Through the efforts of Blue Mound area citizens and civic groups, and…
Read more about Griswold Conservation Area