Are you looking to spend more time outdoors—whether for a quiet walk, a chance to see wildlife, or simply some space to relax? The places featured below offer a range of experiences, from restored wetlands, prairies, wooded trails, and open meadows.
While many of these places are owned by Heartlands Conservancy, we’re also featuring conservation projects owned and managed by partner organizations. Some of these lands were donated, others were purchased, and all help strengthen our connection to nature at a time when that connection is more important than ever.
Each location has its own character. We invite you to explore, discover what speaks to you, and enjoy what these protected places have to offer. If you’re interested in our places not yet open to the public, visit our Wildlife Reserves page.
Explore Middle Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge Monroe, Randolph, and Jackson Counties (IL) and Jefferson County (MO) | 1,224 acres (Rockwood Island only) Type: Natural Area Owned by: US Fish and Wildlife Service Our Role: Because the Mississippi River and lands...
Explore Shawnee National Forest - Mississippi Bluffs Jackson, Williamson, Union, Alexander, and Pulaski Counties, IL | 107,000 Acres Type: Natural Area Owned by: US Forest Service Our role: Given the importance of the wetlands and forests in the southernmost part...
