Rocky Branch Nature Preserve
At Rocky Branch Nature Preserve, Big Creek, a tributary of the Wabash River flows through sandstone cliffs, creating unique habitats for diverse plants and animals that call this land home. Due to its high ecological value, Rocky Branch was designated as a nature preserve by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in 1983, granting it a highly protected status.
The varied elevation of Rocky Branch allows for a range of trees throughout the site’s forest. Shagbark hickory and both white and black oak species dominate the drier uplands portions of the preserve, while the moister slopes and floor host a wider range of species, including beech, sugar maple, sycamore, and red oak. Several notable plant species call Rocky Branch home, including the showy orchid, miami mist, and lousewort.
The sandstone cliff overhangs and ledges serve as habitat for mosses, lichens, and liverworts. The site is also home to animal species such as the eastern phoebe, wood frog, and the southern two-lined salamander. Many plant and animal species found at Rocky Branch are on the edge of or even outside of their normal range, testifying to the unique characteristics and conservation value of the land.
Prior to its acquisition by Grand Prairie Friends, Rocky Branch Nature Preserve has been owned by the Nature Conservancy and Eastern Illinois University. Students and Faculty continue to use the site for study and research of the unique ecosystem. We are grateful for their donation of this land and the opportunity to carry on its conservation legacy.
From Clarksville, go north 0.3 mi., then turn and go east 1.5 mi., then turn and go north 0.4 mi. The nature preserve is east of the road. A parking area is available next to the preserve.
Directions to the Preserve
Preserve is open for public access dawn to dusk. This is an Illinois State Nature Preserve, and use is limited to walking, birding, and photography. Camping, picnicking, littering, pets, and vehicles are not allowed inside the preserve. All plants, animals, birds, and insects are protected, so do not disturb or remove any natural objects including rocks, plants, seeds, or insects.
