volo bog state natural area

RoseC598

We visited my mom's hometown and this was one place she wanted to see again. It has some nice trails and a great center with some very helpful people working there. We learned quite a bit and had a good time.

Smitty411

I love going to the bog, it reminds me that all is right when mother nature is still present. I love to walk along the bogs and listen the the crickets, birds, and frogs. GREAT place to teach kids about nature

poh77

Wow - what a gem - and only an hour from Chicago! We were looking for a quiet, secluded and natural place to hike not too far from Chicago, where we wouldn't have to compete with other hikers, bikers, etc. when we came across this (on the internet). What luck. Couldn't believe it's only an hour from the city - yet you feel you are completely away from civilization. We hiked the main trail (3 miles), did not come upon another soul and it was SO quiet and your are completely submersed in nature. The hike was not difficult; and the scenery was constantly changing (which we liked very much) - one minute you're in the deep woods, the next you're in a marsh, the next you're in the middle of a REAL prairie, etc. Loved the hike.They also have a neat little visitor center (where the trail begins) that's very informative.

optimuscamper

I was here as a child and it was fantastic. I recently came back with my children and, I was a little disappointed. It was still fun, but the place needs a little upkeep and updating.

MarieC563

I've been going to Volo Bog for many, many years. The volunteer staff is wonderful, always ready to answer any questions you may have and the weekend Bog tours are very informative. I recommend visting, at the least, each season as the habitat changes so much. They have special events throughout the year including photo contests and silent art auction that is dedicated to art relating to Bogs. Visit and you won't be dissapointed!

Sarah7381

From the Tamarak Trail to the Chipmunk Woods, there is a little for everyone here. You are guaranteed to see various species of birds, including my favorite- the Sandhill Cranes. Not to mention, the awesome bog habitat is so rare in the US that you cannot help but feel as you walk on the spongy plant life, that this is truly an experience of a lifetime. There is an upstairs level inside the building where kids and adults can hold different bones and attempt to decipher which mammal species they belong to. On the downstairs level is a quaint shop that sells eco-friendly items and educational type gifts that are well work the purchase. Just a $15 donation will allow you membership and discounts to the store. Definitely make a point to visit this place!

HaroldC533

If you want to spend some nice time with the kids without going broke and enjoy learning something as well the volo bog supporters did a great job with this place. The trails are a good hike lots to see my kids like to spend hours here exploring

JessicaBoettch

Grew up here taking summer camps, and walking through the bog. And when i say through, I mean swimming. Great experience for children to learn about the area! 20 years later, I still love going back to see how things have changed. The 3 mile walk around the outskirts is perfect for anyone with an hour to kill.

BizTravelerExtra

Hopefully I'm not spoiling my secret spot, but I absolutely love the Volo Bog for afternoon hiking and animal watching. You never know what you'll see or hear; frogs, cranes, snakes slithering across your path, deer, spiders, ducks, etc. There are plenty of places to sit and watch the animals. There is a floating walkway which is a .5 mile long, and is pretty awesome, as you get to walk all the way into the bog. The main trail is 2.75 miles and has the most animal watching and sites. However, most people miss the Deerpath loop and the Grassland loop, they're across the street. You can have a cook out on the main part of the bog, hike the trails, or opt for a guided tour. Good for people of all ages.

geneg855

I have been coming here for 27years and it a beautiful and intriging spot.The nature trails and the floating walk-ways are unique to the area.Take some time off and come out and enjoy nature.

bikerMary

Volo is a wonderful place to hike and I have been visiting it for over 25 years. The coolest thing is the floating board walk "trails" throgh the bog. I have seen flowering, carnivorous pitcher plants in the spring, muskrats swimming, huge tad poles etc. The ferns are especially wonderful in the spring.

Thoughful-Traveler

We visited Volo Bog one afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it. The nature trail crosses a number of unusual ecosystems (like the eponymous quaking bog) and the handouts explain the evolution of such an area very clearly. We learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed this infrequently visited park.

MarkChw

The trails are really nice and not too difficult. And it is a loop, so you do not see the same scenary twice. You can bring your dog as well. We saw snakes, a few cool birds, and a bunch of unique bugs. The main loop trail should take 1-2 hours depending on how many stops you make.It is best to go when it is not raining, and during the week when it is not too crowded. Also, beware of the ticks - when we got home our dog had 2. Overall, we we plan on coming back here and would highly reccomend this to people of all ages and fitness levels. Oh, and it is free!

SusanM892

Volo Bog has great walking trails that are manicured. You don't need a guide to walk the bog and take in the nature.

Bauer99

Nice walking path through a wooded boggy area. Can see various bird and botanical species native to Illinois.