The park originated from the conversion of strip-mined land into a protected habitat for native species.
It is home to a functioning narrow-gauge railway that serves as a primary guest transportation system across the park.
The site hosts a unique 'Caboose Cabin' lodging program allowing guests to sleep inside renovated vintage train cars.
The park contains the only known instance of a herd of bison roaming in a restored strip-mined prairie landscape in Illinois.
The visitor center features large viewing windows overlooking the wolf and black bear enclosures.
Wildlife Prairie Park is a 1,800-acre zoological park dedicated to the conservation of native Illinois wildlife. The park features an array of indigenous animals, including bison, elk, wolves, black bears, and mountain lions, housed in large, naturalistic habitats. Visitors can navigate the expansive grounds via over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails winding through forests and prairies. The site offers unique lodging experiences, including converted train cabooses, grain bins, and historic cabins. It serves as a regional center for wildlife rehabilitation and environmental education. The park's landscape includes multiple lakes and open plains that mimic the native Illinois tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Facilities include a visitor center, a narrow-gauge train for guest transportation, and rental venues for private events. The park operates as a non-profit organization focused on habitat preservation and species recovery.
The elevated viewing deck overlooking the bison and elk prairie at sunrise.
Bring comfortable hiking footwear to take full advantage of the 20 miles of diverse terrain.
Check the daily train schedule upon arrival to utilize it for accessing far-flung animal enclosures.
Bring binoculars, as the expansive nature of the habitats means animals may be resting at a distance.
Do not attempt to feed or interact with the animals, as this disrupts their natural behavior and rehabilitation status.
The park may operate on reduced days or hours during winter months; train operations are seasonal and weather-dependent.
Maintain a quiet demeanor near animal enclosures; stay strictly on marked paths to protect the prairie restoration zones.
