Parks/Outdoor
Prophetstown State Recreation Area
Management Contact:
Name: IL Dept. of Natural Resources - Northwest Region
Phone: 815-537-2926
E-Mail: prophetstown@dnrmail.state.il.us
Website: http://www.dnr.st...
Prophetstown State Park, on the northeast edge of the city along the south bank of the Rock River in Whiteside County, is a scenic and historic area offering a variety of recreational facilities. Once the site of an American Indian village, the 53-acre park derives its name from the Native American prophet Wa-bo-kie-shiek.
Prophetstown became a state park in 1947 in legislation sponsored by State Rep. George S. Brydia, who had served 10 terms as mayor of Prophetstown.
Gov. William G. Stratton dedicated the park in formal ceremonies there on Sept. 18, 1953.
History
Wa-bo-kie-shiek (White Cloud), who was of mixed Winnebago and Sauk descent, served as an advisor to the great Sauk war chief Black Hawk. In 1831, the advancement of white settlement forced Black Hawk and his followers from the Rock Island area into Iowa, with the promise that they would not return.
Under treaty, the land at Rock Island still belonged to the Native Americans until sold by the United States. The frontiersmen, however, were impatient and began to occupy the site of Black Hawk’s village. In 1832, Black Hawk denounced the encroachment of the frontiersmen upon the lands of his people and set out from Iowa to retake the ceded land.
For a time in 1832, northwestern Illinois was the scene of many skirmishes between the Native Americans, the Illinois militia and the regular army. Prophetstown, the site of Wa-bo-kie-shiek’s village, was destroyed on May 10, 1832, by troops of the state militia commanded by Gen. Samuel Whiteside.
Black Hawk was finally chased into southern Wisconsin, with his retreat culminating in a decisive defeat of the Native Americans a few miles south of Bad Axe on Aug. 2, 1832. A few days later Black Hawk was captured and after several months captivity during which time he was taken to Washington, D.C., he was permitted to return to his people in Iowa, where he died in 1838.
Natural Features
Prophetstown State Park is a predominantly wooded area located along the south bank of the Rock River. Its terrain is relatively flat and lies within the flood plain of the river. Plant life is characteristic of bottom ground, offering a variety of species. Some of the predominant trees are maple, cottonwood, oak, walnut and locust. Animal species that are often seen are squirrels, rabbits, ducks, muskrats, raccoons and occasionally deer. Coon Creek flows through the park and feeds into the Rock River, creating a natural area for fish.
Picnicking
Picnic tables and stoves are provided. No cooking may be done except on camp or park stoves. The area offers a picnic shelter and playground equipment. Drinking water and privy toilets are also located on the area.
Fishing
Anglers will find largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bullhead, carp, sauger and walleye in the Rock River. You also can throw a line in Coon Creek. A concrete boat ramp is available for easy boat launching. There is no horsepower limit on boat motors.
Camping
An open, well-shaded area is available for both tent and trailer camping. There are electrical outlets and a dump station available for trailers. Water hydrants and privy toilets are located throughout the area. There is also a shower building with flush toilets.
Horseshoe Court
Visitors who enjoy competition in horseshoe pitching will enjoy the six courts available in the picnic area.
Hiking Trail
Wa-bo-kie-shiek nature trail follows along the edge of Coon Creek for approximately 1/3 of a mile. It offers access for anglers while also providing a scenic walk for hikers.
Swimming
The is no swimming in the park, but about four blocks away, many park visitors enjoy swimming in the Prophetstown Park District indoor pool.
Hunting
Hunting is available at the Big Bend State Fish & Wildlife Area, located just four miles from Prophetstown. For more information, contact Big Bend at (815)537-2270
Directions:
Prophetstown State Park can be reached by I-80 or I-88 and exiting onto IL Rt. 78 then heading south from I-88 or north from I-80. After reaching Prophetstown, watch for directional signs. The park is located on the south side of the Rock River within the city limits of Prophetstown.
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