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GRISLEY WOODS LAND & WATER RESERVE
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Williamson County, IL | 108 Acres
Type: Natural Area
Owned by: HeartLands Conservancy
Our role: Given the significance of this forest for threatened birds, HeartLands Conservancy received the donation of forest land in 2025. We own and manage this property for wildlife habitat. The property was dedicated as a Land & Water Reserve by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission in 2019.
Hours: We host periodic tours of the area. The property is not currently open to the public.
Location & Directions
Located northeast of Pittsburg, Illinois, in Williamson County on Liberty School Road.
Trails & Facilities
Given its sensitive nature for wildlife habitat, this site is currently only available for tours. We host periodic tours and announce them through our eNewsletter (you can sign up here). There are no trails, facilities, or parking areas available at this location.
However, there is a similar habitat open to the public located nearby at the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge site owned by the US Fish & Wildlife Service.
Wildlife & Habitat
Habitat here consists of mature oak and hickory forest. Plants of interest include a variety of ferns, various oaks, milkweeds, and orchids.
Depending on the season, you may be able to see a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Forest birds, such as barn owls and chuck-will’s-widows are prominent in the forest.
White-tailed deer are found here as well.
Regulations
The property is only accessible through guided walks hosted by the HeartLands Conservancy.
As a community-supported conservation organization, your support is important to foster the love of the land, care for the lands we own, and protect additional properties. We therefore want you to know that when you participate in our programs or visit our properties, you do so recognizing that we may use photographs or videos of program participants for educational and promotional use. By visiting our properties, you therefore acknowledge this possibility and convey consent.
Overview
Grisley Woods Land & Water Reserve
The Grisley Woods Land & Water Reserve protects a mature forest in central Williamson County. These lush woodlands are home to a wide variety of wildlife—from nesting birds to box turtles and deer.
The populations of barn owls used to be prominent in southern Illinois. However, they have been declining rapidly since the 1960s. They need protected, mature forests like this one where they can nest and breed in large tree cavities. Protected forests and nesting boxes have helped restore the habitat they need to thrive. Their increase in population is a hopeful sign that when we care for the land and water, nature responds.
By conserving this forest, we’re not only protecting habitat—we’re ensuring that future generations can experience the sight of foraging owls and enjoy the quiet beauty of the forest.
If you would like to find out more about how to create a new public conservation area and conserve wildlife habitat, feel free to call Anna McAtee at (618) 566-4451 ex 23 or email her at an*********@*******************cy.org.
You may find information on our Land Conservation page and Ways to Give page helpful, too.