Byron Forest Preserve District - Byron, Illinois

Lisa G.

My wife & I had our wedding reception at the Jarrett Prairie Center in the Byron Forest Preserve District on 07/20/24. We reached out to get information on the venue months in advance & primarily communicated with Raul. This venue offered alcohol services & various packages to choose from. Raul was responsive & communicative throughout the process. The day of the event, the venue looked beautiful with all the tables/chairs set up, & the various lighting options. Our catering went smoothly thanks to the kitchen that was available at the venue. My wife & I created our own music playlist for our reception & the sound system was excellent with easy Bluetooth accessibility. We were also provided with microphones for our speeches. Our bartender was graciously heavy handed, to the delight of our guests. Overall we were very pleased with how affordable the venue was, the beautiful scenery surrounding the Prairie Center, & the staff who did a wonderful job. I would highly recommend this place to anyone considering having an event here.

Lynn J.

I absolutely love going here, there's so much to see and do, including, hiking, bird watching, prairie flowers, wildlife (I saw 7 deer during this hike), Storywalk, exploring Jarrett Prairie Center, gorgeous sunsets, and more. There's something for everyone of all ages! So blessed to have Byron Forest Preserve in our community!

David H.

This is an excellent preserve located just a few minutes from downtown Byron. The newly renovated nature center is great for both parents and children alike. There are several little displays with interesting facts about the prairie plants and animals. My nearly two year old daughters loved the play area on he west side of the center. The trails are well maintained and the flowers and warm season grasses are beautiful. The nearby observatory is open on Tuesday and Saturday nights from June through August, and Saturday nights September through May.

Brian T.

Cool area. Great CC for the runners. Not so much for the spectators. Runners disappear into the woods, show up a bit out on the prairie and the reappear from the wood for the finish.

David B.

Beautifully kept trails (several) to walk though , going off in all directions, w some mildly challenging terrain. Will definitely be back.

Elizabeth E.

As a local realtor deeply invested in the Byron community, I am delighted to share my enthusiasm for the Byron Forest Preserve District. This sprawling natural sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience for residents and visitors alike, making it a cornerstone of our town's appeal.

Situated amidst the tranquil beauty of Byron, Illinois, the Byron Forest Preserve District is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With acres of pristine woodlands, meandering trails, and picturesque vistas, it provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The preserve's well-maintained trails are perfect for hiking, jogging, or simply immersing oneself in the sights and sounds of nature. Each path offers a unique journey, whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll along the riverbank or a more challenging hike through wooded terrain.

Families will appreciate the abundance of recreational opportunities available within the preserve. From fishing along the river to picnicking in designated areas, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The playground facilities are a hit with children, providing a safe and engaging space for outdoor play.

One of the preserve's standout features is its commitment to environmental conservation and education. Visitors can participate in educational programs, guided nature walks, and wildlife observation, gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world and our role in its preservation.

The Byron Forest Preserve District's convenient location and ample parking make it easily accessible for residents and visitors from near and far. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat for reflection or an active day of outdoor adventure, this preserve offers endless possibilities.

In summary, the Byron Forest Preserve District is a true asset to our community. Its breathtaking beauty, diverse amenities, and commitment to conservation make it a destination worth exploring time and time again. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family seeking outdoor recreation, or simply looking to connect with the natural world, this preserve is sure to leave a lasting impression. Highly recommended!

Brian N.

Lovely group of parks. Didn't know much about them, glad we made the trip to see them.

Brian A.

Beautiful park with many activities and places to explore. Walking trails, historical barns, rolling hills and the observatory keep us coming back to enjoy such a tranquil place.