International Dark Sky Park

In 2018 Middle Fork River Forest Preserve was designated an International Dark Sky Park by Dark Sky International due to its exceptionally high-quality starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is protected for its scientific, natural, educational, and cultural heritage, as well as its public enjoyment. At the time it was one of 72 parks worldwide to hold that designation and the only one in Illinois.

While some portions of the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve close to automobiles at dusk, the North Waterfowl Management Area (2554 County Road 3500 North, Penfield, IL) and the new Dark Sky Trail (2665 County Road 3500 North, Rankin, IL) are open 24 hours a day for night sky viewing. 

Dark Sky Trail and Amenities

Exciting News! The Middle Fork River Forest Preserve Trail is Now Open!

Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, the largest preserve in Champaign County, is a popular destination for camping and hiking. Known for having some of the darkest skies in the county, it offers optimal conditions for stargazing. In 2018, Middle Fork was recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, the first and only one in Illinois. Since then, visitation has significantly increased.

Champaign County Forest Preserves staff collaborated with local stargazing enthusiasts to make Middle Fork River Forest Preserve a premier stargazing destination. 

New Additions Include:

  • A mile-long dark sky trail with dark-sky-friendly lighting
  • Trail nodes for stargazing
  • An observatory where visitors can set up their own telescopes
  • An open-air shelter
  • A small parking lot
  • 11 dark-sky-friendly campsites

These enhancements not only improve stargazing amenities but also help meet the high demand for hiking trails and improve ADA accessibility.

Come and experience the beauty of nature and the wonders of the night sky at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve. We look forward to seeing you out there!

What You Need to Know

What areas are used for viewing?

Four areas for Dark Sky Viewing:

  • Campground - Level 1: There is dark sky approved lighting throughout the campground
  • Sugar Creek - Level 2: No lighting, restroom, open air shelter
  • North Waterfowl Area - Level 3: Very dark, no restrooms or amenities
  • Dark Sky Trail - Level 3: Very dark, no restrooms or amenities

Download the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve Map

Are public restrooms available?

Restroom (Outface) facilities are available 24/7.

Campground Showerhouse is open April-October.

There is a restroom at Sugar Creek.

Where do the Dark Sky Programs take place?

The public Dark Sky Park programs typically take place at the observatory at the Dark Sky Trail.

 

Is camping allowed?

Camping is allowed only in designated camping areas.

Are pets allowed at the park?

Dogs ARE allowed as long as they are on a leash. And, please remember to pick up after your pet so everyone can enjoy the park experience.

Can I use a regular flashlight?

The Dark Sky Park is indeed very dark. We recommend visitors bring red-filtered flashlights only, so as to not disturb the vision of other park users. White light can ruin the viewing opportunities presented at Middle Fork, for yourself and others. You can make your own red-filtered flashlight by taking red plastic wrap (or coloring clear plastic wrap red) and covering the tip of the flashlight. (Check for the special red wrap around the winter holidays in particular and stock up!) Here’s one way to get started making a night-vision flashlight.

What is a Dark Sky park?

Middle Fork River Forest Preserve received designation in November 2018. The designation is awarded by Dark Sky International in Tucson, Arizona, the oldest organization dedicated to protecting and stewarding natural darkness in the world. The preserve is part of a very dynamic, international movement to protect natural darkness worldwide. Dark Sky International now recognizes over 70 international dark sky parks worldwide.

First Dark Sky Park in Illinois

Come along to Illinois' first and only Dark Sky Park, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve. Lisa Sprinkle and Matt Kuntz, of Champaign Country Forest Preserve District, and David Leake, of the Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society, join Jarrod Scheunemann to discuss the importance of Dark Sky Parks and how they went about receiving the designation in Central Illinois.

First Dark Sky Park in Illinois