Wingate Prairie

In 1994, the Illinois Nature Preserve Commission designated the prairie as an Illinois Nature Preserve. Only sites with statewide ecological value are considered for this highest level of protection under Illinois law. This unique prairie land, with its rolling terrain, oak savanna and conifer groupings, is home to several rare and endangered plant and animal species including the Prairie Buttercup, Pinweed, Queen of the Prairie, Pale Vetchling, Purple Flowering Raspberry, Silvery Blue Butterfly, and the Franklin Ground Squirrel. During its active months from spring to fall, the prairie is in constant bloom.