Parks & Recreation

When you need a place to get away from it all, beautiful parks and tucked-away treasures await your recreational pursuits. Biking, fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and disc golf are just a few of the activities available just outside your door.

If your idea of recharging includes sweat on your brow, fresh air in your lungs and sunshine on your face, Stephenson County has a great selection of outdoor activities to offer the serenity you crave.

With over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails across the county, pick your path and enjoy the views! The Jane Addams Trail, Lake Le0Aqua-Na State Park, Oakdale Nature Preserve, Krape Park, Hideaway Park, Taylor Park, Evangeline Forest Walk and Tutty’s Crossing are remarkable space to walk, bike and unwind.

Bring your kayak or canoe and put in for a day of beautiful paddling. Pick the shaded scenery of Yellow Creek from Krape Park or the long, winding waters of “Illinois’ Friendliest Paddle” on the Pecatonica River from Winslow to Tutty’s Crossing for up to 30 miles of water trail.

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

Jane Addams Trail

17-mile recreational trail with beautiful scenery passing through prairie, wetlands and geologic formations. Bike all the way to Wisconsin!

Oakdale Nature Preserve

133 acres of forests, restored prairies and more than four miles of trails.

Little Cubs Field

A miniature replica of Wrigley Field for baseball fans of all ages.

Championship Golf

Five 18-hole golf courses featuring challenging terrain and remarkable features.

Krape Park

Located on the west edge of Freeport, Krape Park includes a wonderfully restored antique carousel, 18-hole mini golf course, paddle boat rental as well as miles of hiking trails.

Read Park

A quad-plex baseball complex is the center of Read Park along with a skate park, swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts.

Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park

Highlighted by a 40-acre lake and all the recreational opportunities there, the park also offers multi-use trails, picnic areas, and RV, tent, equestrian and youth group campgrounds.

Key Industries

Healthcare

Construction, Plumbing, Heating, & Service

Private Label Food Manufacturing

Stephenson County Major Employers

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Speak Softly and Carry Big Scissors May 21, 2025 Freeport, Stephenson County For the last couple of months and for the next couple of months, we have the pleasure of conducting numerous ribbon cuttings. These ribbon cuttings have celebrated businesses that are new or are new to Freeport and Stephenson County, relocated or expanded businesses, completed renovations, and more. For those who aren’t familiar, ribbon cuttings are ceremonies at which the Greater […]

Why Economic Development Week Matters for Freeport & Stephenson County May 12, 2025 Economic Development Week, celebrated May 12–16, 2025, is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a vital moment to reflect on the work that shapes our community’s future. At the Greater Freeport Partnership, we are proud to lead efforts in economic development, tourism, marketing, business services, and Main Street revitalization. This week gives us the opportunity to spotlight how […]

International Museum Day May 1, 2025

7 Must Do’s in February in Stephenson Co. February 10, 2025 freeport il, Stephenson County, Tourism 7 Must Do’s in February in Stephenson County February has finally come! It may not seem like a large milestone, but when January seems like the longest month of the year, we will celebrate inching toward longer days. And February brings some great events and activities to emerge from the throws of cabin fever and explore great venues in Freeport […]