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SPENCER
PARK
Getting There
Spender Park is located on
Appleton Road in the city of Belvidere, between North State Street and West Lincoln
Avenue. The main entrance is located by St. James Cemetery. This
accesses the pavilions, both pond and rover fishing opportunities, and
recreation paths. The North entrance accesses the Visitor Center,
historic area, and more recreation paths. Additional information is available
at either location. Click here for a map.
Natural Considerations
Spender Park lies on the banks
of the Kishwaukee River. The low lands adjacent to the river are
dominated by silver maple, sycamore, and willow trees, which are species
adapted to withstand seasonal flooding. Low areas are dotted with
wetlands, which actually are a former section of the river channel that was
cut off from the main flow many years ago. A shallow wetland remains
providing ideal habitat for aquatic species. Species of birds,
including waterfowl and wading birds frequent the marsh. Out of the
flood plain are the oak savannah forests which prefer better drainage.
The forest is dominated by hardwoods including red and white oak, hackberry,
and hickory trees. Deer, squirrel, and songbirds frequent these areas
where they forage on nuts and berries. Raptors too, are likely here
because the large trees provide nest sites and high vantage points for
hunting.
History
Because of its location along
a river, Spencer Park has a history rich in human activity. For
several thousand years, the Kishwaukee River was used by the Native
Americans to transport goods for trade. In conjunction with this
route, the park is known to have been a campsite used during nomadic
visits. In more recent history, a portion of the park was the site of
the Boon County Fairgrounds. Some of the original buildings remain and
are utilized by park visitors as picnic shelters.
Opportunities for fun
This area is Boone County
Conservation District's most developed, and offers a variety of recreational
opportunities. For this seeking a connection with nature, the area hosts
over 3 miles of trails which wind through diverse habitats providing wildlife
viewing opportunity. For the angler, the park has ponds stocked with
fish and over a mile of river frontage. Check signs for size and creel
limits. Picnic shelters, ball fields, and courts are available for
reservation.
The Administration Center contains a variety of educational
displays and plays host to many of the District sponsored educational
programs. It is open week days and select weekends. The grounds
around the Center harbor several interpretive gardens. In addition, the
area contains historic structures, an interpretive trail, and is the site of
the Autumn Pioneer Festival held the fourth weekend in September.
Activities and Facilities
Hiking trail, cross country
skiing, interpretive trail, picnicking, group shelter, accessible
facilities, drinking water, nature center, historic exhibit, restroom,
fishing, interpretive exhibit.
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