Rules and Guidelines

Funks Grove is privately owned and the largest remaining intact prairie grove in the state of Illinois.

Portions of Funks Grove have been designated a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Department of Interior.

Through a unique partnership between the Funks Grove Cemetery Association, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and Sugar Grove Foundation, over 1,100 acres of natural area have been protected through the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission and conservation easments. The Nature Spaces serve as an access point to over 8 miles of trails within these beautiful privately owned properties.

Our goal is to provide visitors with a wonderful experience while preserving the features of this incredible natural area. Help us maintain the special qualities of Funks Grove by observing some guidelines.

These guidelines allow everyone to enjoy nature without disturbing the plants and animals that live here.

Amission to the Nature Spaces is Free. Please consider a donation to Sugar Grove Foundation. Sugar Grove Foundation works hard to preserve, protect, and enhance these beautiful natural lllinois areas.

Please Note
This is private property and security cameras are in use.
The area is patrolled by Staff and the local Sheriff's Department.
Do Not Litter!
Pack out what you pack in!

There are garbage cans near the restrooms and in the picnic shelter.

Trails are for foot traffic only.
No bikes or ATVs!

Bike racks are provided near the office and near the outhouses.

Stay on designated trails.

Do not travel on unmarked or deer trails.

Leashed pets are welcome!

Please clean up after your pet and keep them on a leash.

Fire Safety
No Fires or Grills

No Fires unless scheduled and supervised by staff.

Substance-Free Policy

No Alcohol or Drugs.

Picnic Shelter and Firepit Rules

The Picnic Shelter operates on a first-come, first-served basis when there is no reservation.

There will be a reserved notice if there is a reservation.

Reservations can be made by calling the office during office hours. (309)459-0818

Use of the Fire Pit is prohibited without a reservation for the Fire Pit.

Reservation Requirements:

  • Groups of 10 or more people wanting to use the shelter need to make a reservation.
  • There is no charge. Donations are accepted.
  • If you have a reservation, but are not using the whole picnic shelter, please allow other people to use those unused areas

Prohibited Activities:

  • No Alcohol, Drugs, or Firearms.
  • No open flames, grills, or other cooking equipment.
  • No use of the Fire Pit. Do not move Fire Pit rocks.
  • No loud music or amplified sounds
  • No fighting, profane language, or any other disruptive behavior.

Clean Up:

  • Groups are responsible for cleaning up after using the Picnic Shelter, disposing of all trash, taking personal items, and ensuring that the shelter is in the same condition as it was found.
  • If the garbage cans are full, please alert the staff.

 

Please help us keep this space the way it is for everyone to enjoy!

Thank You!