Friends Creek Conservation Area in Cisco, IL
Friends Creek Conservation Area is a 621-acre site offering a diverse array of habitats, including two branches of Friends Creek, open meadows, and tall-grass prairie. Visitors can explore the area via three nature trails that wind through its picturesque landscape. The site also features two pavilions, hiking and picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is available at nearby Clinton Lake, located just 8 miles north, while camping opportunities are offered at the on-site campground. For those interested in local history, the historic Bethel School, a one-room schoolhouse built around 1890, provides a glimpse into the early history of Macon County.
Location
Friend’s Creek is located at 13734 Friends Creek Park Road Cisco, IL 61830.
Directions
Friend’s Creek GPS Coordinates are 40.029688 N, 88.783892 W.
Trail Map
Fort Daniel Conservation Area Map
(click for an enlarged view)
Activities
Friends Creek Conservation Area in Cisco, IL
Friends Creek Conservation Area is a 621-acre site offering a diverse array of habitats, including two branches of Friends Creek, open meadows, and tall-grass prairie. Visitors can explore the area via three nature trails that wind through its picturesque landscape. The site also features two pavilions, hiking and picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is available at nearby Clinton Lake, located just 8 miles north, while camping opportunities are offered at the on-site campground. For those interested in local history, the historic Bethel School, a one-room schoolhouse built around 1890, provides a glimpse into the early history of Macon County.
Camping at Friends Creek
Take a break from it all without breaking your wallet by camping at Friends Creek Conservation Area. Pitch a tent and spend a night under the stars or hook up your camper to one of the electric sites. Friends Creek Campground is a quiet place to relax, explore nature, and spend time with family and friends.
You can begin making reservations for the 2025 camping season starting January 22, 2025.
The season runs May 2 – November 2
Campground includes 30 and 50 amp electric sites, showers, flush toilets, and a dump station.
Daily fees for sites are as follows: $25 for 30 amp service and $30 for 50 amp service. A large group campsite is also available for $25 per night for up to 25 people, and $1 per night for each additional person up to 60 people. All reservations have a $5.00 service fee per site, per reservation.
- Complete campground information and rules.
- Minimum 2-night stay for holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Juneteenth, and Forth of July).
Friends Creek Campground’s GPS Coordinates are 40.029688 N, 88.781583 W [get directions]
Picnicking
Friends Creek features a beautiful picnic area with tables, grills, and a playground with two pavilions. To reserve a pavilion, call 217-423-7708.
Hiking Trails
Three nature trails provide great hiking through the area. Follow the Friends Creek Trail for a short, self-guided walk along the creek near the picnic area. The Sun Trail threads its way through floodplain, oak-hickory forest, and across the rolling hillside of a large meadow. For a walk through cool, shade-filled woods, try the Woodland Trail.
Fishing
Fishing at Clinton Lake, located just 8 miles north of Friends Creek, offers a variety of opportunities for anglers seeking diverse species. The lake is regularly stocked with walleye, hybrid striped bass, blue catfish, and crappie, ensuring a vibrant fishing experience throughout the year. In addition to traditional fishing, bowfishing is permitted in designated areas of the lake, adding a unique challenge for those interested in this method. For increased accessibility, all Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) boat ramps now feature wheelchair-accessible docks, making it easier for individuals with mobility impairments to enjoy the lake. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, Clinton Lake provides an inclusive and well-stocked environment for all fishing enthusiasts.
Historic Bethel School
Historic Bethel School, built around 1890 is a one-room schoolhouse, restored to its status as a community focal point. At Bethel School, you’ll learn a bit about the early history of Macon County. Educational programs are offered to local schools in the spring and fall. Free, monthly open houses, held the first Saturday of each month May through October from 1:00-4:00 pm, are open to the public.
