Rush Creek Conservation Area, Harvard, IL

Rush Creek Conservation Area spans more than 1,100 acres of restored prairie, oak savanna, and wetlands in northern McHenry County. A 2.2-mile crushed-limestone trail runs through the preserve, linking several fishing ponds stocked with bluegill and largemouth bass. Anglers access the water from three gravel parking areas and a small boat launch on the east side. The trail system also connects to the 3.3-mile Rush Creek Bike Path, which continues south into the city of Harvard. Birders can scan open grasslands for Henslow’s sparrows and bobolinks or follow boardwalks into cattail marshes that host nesting sandhill cranes. Picnic tables and a reservable shelter sit near the main entrance on Route 173, while portable restrooms are available at all three lots. The preserve lies less than three miles from downtown Harvard’s commuter rail station, grocery stores, and schools, offering residents direct access to open space without leaving city limits.

Camping Cross-Country Skiing Fishing Hiking Paths Picnic Area

Location

City Harvard

State Illinois

Averages

Taxes $1,785

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