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Illinois State Parks

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Walnut Point State Park
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WALNUT POINT STATE PARK
WALNUT POINT STATE PARK
2331 E. County Road 370 N
Oakland, Illinois   61943

Phone: 217-346-3336
Reservations: 217-346-3336
Email: park email button icon
With its woods, water and wildlife, Walnut Point State Park in east-central Illinois has it all - from fishing, hunting and camping to hiking, picnicking and cross-country skiing. Conveniently located within a few miles of Interstate 57, U.S. Highway 36 and Illinois Route 133, the 631-acre site is 20 miles northeast of Charleston.
Nature of the Area
Although Walnut Point has numberous, developed recreational facilities, it sill maintains many of its orignal natural features and attributes. Ash, oak, hickory, maple, walnut, locust and sassafras trees dominat the prk's extensive wooded acres. The park features tow winding and scenic tree-lined drives for motor vehicles. The roadsides are especially beautiful in the Spring when the redbuds and wildflowers bloom, while fall foliage colors are varied and spectuacular. In addition, the park is home to a prairie restoration plot and a 65-acre nature preserve, Upper Embarras Woods.

Within the park are many mamals, amphibians and reptiles. Bird watchers will find good viewing for several different species of songbirds, owls and raptors. Wood ducks, herons and Canada geese also can be seen on and along the lake. Because of its natural diversity and viewing opportunities, Walnut Point is among the sites featured in the "Illinois Wildlife and Nature Viewing Guide."

The Lake

The 59-acre, multi-fingered Walnut Point Lake is the focal point of the park. It is stream fed and formed by an earthen dam located on the lake's Southern shore. The lake has a maximum average depth of 12.5 feet and 6.3 miles of shoreline.

Except for electric trolling motors, boat motors are not allowed. Swimming is not permitted.
History of the Area
Walnut Point was named for Douglas County's first pioneer settlement. No longer in existence, the community was established in the 1830's about 2 miles from the park site. The park opened in 1968 and is managed by the Department of Natural Resources.
Park Store
Concession

A concession is operated from April through October for visitor convenience. Items and services include food, ice cream, drinks, ice, bait, firewood and boat rental. The concession phone number is (217) 346-3281.
Camping
Several types of camping are offered at Walnut Point State Park. "Class A" camping areas offer campers use of electric hook-ups and a shower building with flush toilets. In addition, "Class C" walk-in tent camping areas and a group camping area (youth and adult) are available. Drinking water and a sanitary dump station are provided. During cold weather, camp facilities are subject to closure. Campers are reminded they are required to have their primary camping unit with them before they can occupy a site and obtain a permit.

Currently, all Class "A and C" campsites are available for reservation. The group camping area and two large picnic shelters are also reservable. Please contact the park office for current information and specific details.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. A 59-acre lake is available, where electric motors are allowed but gas-powered engines aren't permitted to maintain the tranquility of the area. Rowboats and canoes can be rented from Memorial Day through Labor Day at reasonable rates. There's also an accessible boat dock provided for convenience.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in a 59-acre lake, home to largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. A smaller pond houses bullheads.

Boat rentals are available for angling or you can fish from the shoreline.

The park also offers ice fishing during winter months when conditions allow it.

Fishing tournaments occur throughout the year with various species targeted depending on seasonality.


Location
Walnut Point State Park is located near Charleston, Mattoon

Picnicking
Eight wooded picnic areas bordering the lake offer picnic tables, outdoor grills and privies with designated parking areas close by. There are 5 large shelters for groups, eight large tables with protective roofs, 2 sets of playground equipment and 3 horseshoe pits. Drinking water is available. Firewood is not provided but is available at the concession.
Bicycling
Visitors can explore 25 miles of trails, suitable for both novice and experienced cyclists. Helmets are strongly recommended.

The park's terrain varies from flat to hilly, providing a range of challenges for bikers.

Mountain biking is permitted on designated paths only; please respect the environment by staying on marked routes.

Bike rentals aren't available onsite so remember to bring your own equipment if you plan to cycle during your visit.

Night-time cycling isn't allowed due safety concerns - ensure all rides finish before dusk falls in this area.

Please note that trail conditions may change with weather events - always check current status prior setting out.

Remember: sharing the path courteously ensures everyone enjoys their experience within these beautiful natural surroundings!
Trails
Hiking and nature-study enthusiasts will find 2.25 miles of trails weaving through the timber. By using the main park road and the Gray Squirrel-Twin Points connection trail, walkers and joggers can complete a 3-mile exercise loop. All trails are restricted to foot traffic only. The Lakeside Nature Trail (.5 mile) is handicapped accessible.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with over 200 species spotted, including waterfowl and songbirds. Birdwatchers can explore the wooded areas or walk along the lake for sightings. The spring migration season is particularly popular among enthusiasts due to a variety of birds passing through.
Nature Programs
Programs designed to help visitors better appreciate the site's natural resources are provided on a seasonal basis. Contact the park office for more information and specific details.

Area Attractions
Winter Sports

Ice fishing and ice skating, both "at your own risk" activities, are permitted on the lake when the ice is thick enough. Ample area also is available for cross-country skiing.

The Surrounding Area

Other attractions in the surrounding area of Walnut Point would be the Norton Knolls Golf Course in Oakland appoximately 3 miles from the park; the Olde Barn Sporting Clays in Oakland, appoximately 5 miles from park; and the Oakland Community Swimming Pool, appoximatley 3 miles from the park.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
October 25 great park by william perry
park review stars; one to five with the concession reopening april 1st of 2014 its going to explode the amount of visitors to this wonderful place
October 17 Peaceful, quiet place to camp by Michelle
park review stars; one to five Truly a hidden gem in Illinois!
September 4 Always a great time. by Happy Campers
park review stars; one to five We love camping at Walnut State Point. The sites are very nice, the staff is very helpful & friendly. The park is beautiful and peaceful with plenty to do. Also, nice clean bathroom & showers.
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Area Campgrounds
Hebron Hills Camping
14349 North County Road 2350N
Oakland, IL
217-346-3385
Lincoln Springs Resort LLC
19892 Camp Spring Road
Ashmore, IL
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Walnut Point State Park is located 20 miles northeast of Charleston and 3 miles north of Oakland. Interstate 57, US route 36, and state route 133 are three major access highways in close proximity to the park.

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Illinois
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Illinois State Parks

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