Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area

This sprawling 2,537-acre nature preserve is more than just protected grassland prairie (although it is one of the best places in the state to see switchgrass and big bluestem grasses that grow up to 8-feet tall!). It also happens to be one of the most important nesting areas for endangered and threatened birds, including the elusive Henslows sparrow and the upland sandpiper. You can spend the day birdwatching as you navigate through the trail system that leads around the park. You might also catch a glimpse of other wildlife that roams through the grasslands like frogs, turtles, and snakes.