The Middle Fork is wild. It’s scenic. It’s Illinois’ only federally designated National Scenic River. It’s one of east-central Illinois’ most beautiful places.
Come celebrate the Middle Fork River on May 19th at:
Kickapoo State Recreation Area
10906 Kickapoo Park Rd, Oakwood, IL 61858
Events run from 9 AM until 3 PM. All events begin from Kickapoo Adventures adjacent to the Clear Pond and are free* and open to the public.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: For the PRN trip, you should already have reserved your trip with Kickapoo Adventures and arrive at 9 AM to leave for the launch at 9:30. Launch is at 10 AM and will include taking part in a PRN flotilla photo. Trip includes a discussion of the threats to the river by the Dynegy coal ash pits that sit on the western bank of the river. If you have your own boat and would like to shuttle to the launch, call Kickapoo Adventures directly at (217) 446-8399 to reserve your shuttle spot ($18), if available. Other launch times and trip distances may also be available throughout the day. Check the Kickapoo Adventures website.
Photo credit: Jason Lindsey - Nature Walks: Join us for nature walks starting at 9 AM and 1 PM. Hike the Middle Fork Woods with Environmental Almanac and Prairie Rivers Network board member Rob Kanter and retired wetland ecologist Rick Larimore to learn about the flora and fauna. Hikes are at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Be ready to get your feet wet as the afternoon trip may go down to the river to look for underwater wildlife.
- Kids Fishing Derby: 1 to 3 PM. All rods will be provided thanks to the Natural Resources Education Program.
- Lawn Games: Enjoy lawn games for friends and families throughout the day. Bring your own for others to share!
- Food: Need food, the Bistro’s got you and your family covered. Or bring a picnic!
- Entertainment: Take part in an acoustic jam session with the Hobnob String Band from 12 PM to 2 PM.
- Bike Trail: Ride the trails.
- Camping: Into camping? Reserve your campsite at www.reserveamerica.com. With 98 sites to choose from, you’re bound to find the right site for you and your family.
2018 is the 50th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, a law created by Congress to protect rivers that have outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational aspects. The Middle Fork of the Vermilion River is Illinois’ only federally designated Wild and Scenic River! Come celebrate our wild and scenic river!
*Free to attend. Boat rental fees apply. Food available from the Bistro for purchase. Activities subject to change.
Thank you Sponsors
Platinum $5,000+
Gold $1,000+
Silver $500
Bronze $250
Additional Business Sponsors
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Would you like to sponsor Prairie Rivers Network?
Prairie Rivers Network invites you to support clean water, healthy rivers, and abundant wildlife by becoming a business member of Prairie Rivers Network. Business sponsors can be recognized at our Annual Dinner, Wild & Scenic Film Festival, PRN Day at the Fork, and Illinois Marathon – Run/Walk for Clean Water – charity running team.
For more information, please view our Business Sponsor Form, or contact Vickie Nudelman at 217.344.2371 or vnudelman [at] prairierivers.org.
