Hampton Inn Decatur, Mt. Zion, IL

Spitler Woods State Natural Area, a 200-acre site in Mt. Zion in Macon County, is home to one of the largest acreages of old growth woods in central Illinois. Much of the site is dedicated as Spitler Woods Nature Preserve, providing additional protection for the site's valuable natural features. Spitler Woods mesic upland forest includes red oak, sugar maple, black walnut and basswood on the hillsides and slopes. Dry mesic forest containing white oak, red oak and shagbark hickory is present...

Located near Mt. Zion, Fort Daniel Conservation Area is a 200-acre site rich in history and recreational opportunity. The area’s background includes tales of Southern sympathizers during the Civil War, and an old stagecoach route. Fort Daniel Conservation Area provides trails, a pavilion, playground, and varied terrain. Big Creek winds through the area providing water and habitat for the wildlife. You’ll see many species of plants in the forests, grasslands, and floodplain.

This trail runs alongside Big Creek and the edges of the Fort Daniel Conservation Area. This zone has amazing opportunities for seeing wildlife, open meadows, and forests. This trail also abuts private property, including a residence which includes a scale railroad and other features, so please stay on the trail.

Sand Creek Conservation Area is a nearly 800 acre site that features over 7.5 miles of trails that can be used by both hikers and horseback riders. The park's trails wind through a variety of habitats including prairie, savanna, floodplain forest, and upland forest. Currently, there are no bridges in the park, so crossing the creeks usually requires getting your feet wet. However, the County plans on putting in at least one bridge in the next couple of years. Equestrian use has increased the...