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...
Ride the Ups & Downs Bicycle Ride
Elizabeth • May 03 @ 7AM
The G.O.A.T.S. Cycling Club of Galena is hosting the annual Ride the Ups & Downs Event.
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Elizabeth Freedom Festival
Terrapin Park • Jul 01 @ 4PM
Join the community for an action-packed day of family fun at Elizabeth Freedom Fest!
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104th Elizabeth Community Fair
402 West Street • Jul 18 – Jul 20 @ 8AM
Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated 104th Elizabeth Community Fair, scheduled for July 18 - 20, 2025!
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JDCF Preseves
Elizabeth
Guided explorations of rare wild birds in Native American archaeological sites.
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