Preserve history
The 543-acre Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve was acquired between 1990 and 2010.
The preserve is part of the Kankakee Sands preservation system, which conserves more than 1,200 acres.
A 227-acre portion of the site was dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve in 1993. This dedication provides permanent protection for the natural resources at the preserve.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP
Natural resources
Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna and wetland.
A unique feature of the site is its sand dunes and savanna.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes a variety of butterfly species, such as the black dash skipper and two-spotted skipper.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including the state-endangered tubercled orchid and shore St. John’s wort.
The site is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning and habitat restoration to protect and enhance its natural resources.