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Postcard from Sangchris State Park
Note:
Each week, Joel Brunsvold, director of the Illinois Department
of Natural Resources, sends a postcard profile of a different
Illinois state park, natural area or trail. This week, the director
is writing about Sangchris State Park, located in portions of
Christian and Sangamon counties.
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[JULY 9, 2005]
ROCHESTER -- Dear Campers,
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Sangchris Lake State Park is one of the most visited areas
operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the
reason is clear -- it's a beautiful place. I can drive about 30
minutes from my Springfield office and be in what feels like another
world. Sangchris Lake State Park centers on water. The park is
3,022 acres in size and offers 120 miles of shoreline. It's a
man-made lake in the midst of central Illinois farmland. It was
formed in 1964, when the utility Commonwealth Edison built a 50-foot
earthen dam across Clear Creek to create a cooling lake for a power
plant.
The lake is popular among those who fish; it's full of catfish,
largemouth bass, stripers and crappie. In fact, the largest striper
pulled from an Illinois lake came out of here, weighing in at 32
pounds. You can sit on the shoreline and fish, or you can take out a
boat. If you don't have a boat of your own, there are vendors nearby
who rent boats for the day. Because it's a warm-water cooling lake,
this is a spot you can count on fishing successfully year-round.
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This is also a good place to just soak up scenery. I enjoy
sitting on the lake's edge. If you are still, and you come at the
right time of day, you're almost guaranteed to see some wildlife.
Among the most awe-inspiring: albino deer. There are as many as
three that range the park. While wildlife biologists may debate
whether they're healthy for herd management, to see a pure white
buck standing lakeside is a sight to take away your breath. It's an
almost spiritual experience!
Even if you miss seeing the white deer, you're almost guaranteed
to spot wild turkey, rabbits, pheasant, quail and hawks. In addition
to the wildlife, this is also a spot that's popular among those who
enjoy riding horseback. There are three sections of trail suitable
for riding horseback. There is also an extensive network of hiking
trails here, not to mention some nice campgrounds as well. And if
you're not the type to pitch a tent, but you're seeking an outdoor
experience, you can always rent one of the two rustic cabins here in
the park.
Happy trails to you,
Joel
[Illinois
Department of Natural Resources news release] |
