As with the majority of Illinois, McLean County's rich farmland was once prairie. Relatively few areas were forest when the settlers arrived in the late 1800's. One such location was the northwest corner of what is now West Township.

In the form of West County Park, this location remains much the same as it did in the late 1800's. Thanks to the foresight of Simeon H. and Martha West, the old growth oak trees tower over surrounding farmlands, standing as a symbol of preservation for future generations.

Historical

Prior to 1851, the Kickapoo Indians were the sole inhabitants of McLean County. About a mile east of West Park is the site of an Indian fort. A large stone marker designates the site of this former settlement.

In 1851, Henry West and his son, Simeon, were the first settlers to come to this area and settled on what is now known as "the ridge". We know today that "the ridge" running along the north side of West township is a glacial moraine.

As news spread of the fertile lands covered with prairie grass, other families came to the area. The settlers decided to form a township government and named it after the first settler, Henry West.

In 1906, Simeon and Martha West decided that the small amount of old growth timber in West Township should be preserved for future generation. With the donation of this timber area to the County of McLean in 1906, the first McLean County Park and Forest Preserve was created.

Recreation

West Park, an area of 20 acres, provides an ideal setting for passive activities such as picnics, short hikes, and nature observation. A pavilion with fireplace and electricity is available for group activities. A nature trail, renovated by the McLean County Parks Youth Conservation Corps during the Summer of 1993, is available for short hikes and nature study. This trail winds through the forest preserve area of the park and provides opportunity to explore many natural phenomena.

For more information on group activites at West Park, please contact the County Parks and Recreation Department at (309) 726-2022.

Rules

Please follow these abridged rules to insure everyone's enjoyment at West Park:

1. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
2. No open fires except in grills or fireplace.
3. Please gather firewood only from picnic area.
4. Park cars only on gravel areas.
5. Dispose of litter in receptacles.
6. Park hours are from 7 AM - 10 PM
7. Camping Only by Special Use Permit- contact Parks Department
8. For Shelter Reservation Information - click here

Thank you.

For more information contact:

The McLean County Department of Parks and Recreation
2450 Comlara Park Road
Hudson, IL 61748
Phone (309) 726-2022