Gregg Park
Rate this placeNearby: Chicago Park Kimmell Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Gregg Park is a beautiful recreational area located in the charming town of Oakwood, Illinois.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The park is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers. Some of the main reasons to visit Gregg Park include its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and diverse range of activities.
One of the most popular points of interest in the park is the trail network, which offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park's different habitats, including prairie, woodland, and wetland areas. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making them perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Another must-see attraction in the park is the Oakwood Masonic Lodge, which is located on the edge of the park and dates back to the 1800s. This historic building features unique architectural details, including a beautiful stained-glass window, and is open to the public for tours and events.
In addition to its natural and historic attractions, Gregg Park is also home to a variety of recreational facilities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a baseball field. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating on the park's lake.
Interesting facts about Gregg Park include that it was named after William Gregg, who was a prominent local businessman and philanthropist. It was established in the 1930s as a WPA project during the Great Depression, and has since become a beloved community gathering place.
The best time of year to visit Gregg Park is in the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and the park's natural beauty is at its peak. However, visitors can also enjoy the park's fall foliage and winter landscapes.
Overall, Gregg Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of central Illinois.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kimmell City Park
|
||
Lincoln Trail
|
||
Ouabache Trails County Park
|
Chicago Park
Kimmell Park
Four Lakes Park
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
Lincoln Trail State Memorial