Schurmeier Teaching Forest
147 E. Reusch Rd., Elizabeth, IL 61028
Bird & Eagle Watching
Two miles of beginner and intermediate hiking trails, educational signage teaches about tree and forestry practices. This forest is the perfect place to spend the day.
Jerry and Jon Schurmeier donated the original 52 acres of Schurmeier Teaching Forest to JDCF in 1994, in memory of their parents. To our knowledge, this is the only teaching forest in Illinois. A self-guided tree identification booklet is available for free at the kiosk and corresponds to signage along the trail.
This rugged, hillside property is entirely wooded. Although the site was generally logged many years ago, the deeper ravines include some awe-inspiring old-growth timber. A picnic shelter, surrounded by native prairie plants, is available for family gatherings, and is the meeting point for our spring and fall forest walks.
JDCF preserves are open daily dawn to dusk and free of charge unless otherwise posted at www.jdcf.org.
Dogs on leash are welcome.
What's happening nearby...
Elizabeth Freedom Festival
Terrapin Park • Jul 01 @ 4PM
Join the community for an action-packed day of family fun at Elizabeth Freedom Fest!
Read more about Elizabeth Freedom Festival
Massbach Stomp!
Massbach Ridge Winery • Sep 28 @ 11AM
Join Massbach Ridge Winery's Post Harvest Celebration at their annual Stomp!
Read more about Massbach Stomp!
Christmas at the Fort
Apple River Fort State Historic Site • Dec 07 @ 11AM
Celebrate Christmas the 1832 way at Apple River Fort State Historic Site in beautiful Elizabeth, IL!
Read more about Christmas at the FortYou might also be interested...
JDCF Safaris
Elizabeth
Guided explorations of rare wild birds in Native American archaeological sites.
Read more about JDCF Safaris