john christof: I lived and worked in Grundy County from 1981-2016. I recently returned to visit the Grundy County Historical Center. I had a perfect experience. Oliver Jarvis and the tremendous people who contributed to this monument of historical treasure deserve our undying thanks and tribute. I cannot wait to return to the center and try to learn and absorb more of Grundy Countys rich, diverse and facinationg history.
Jeremy Davis: It looks like Gebhard Woods State Park has had better days in the past. All the ponds and water are dried up. Even the I&M Canal nearby is dried up. You have to go east near William G. Stratton State Park to see the canal, or I imagine more west is ok too.
It looked like there were some renovations occurring on the I&M Canal, so hopefully, the park is in better shape in the future.
Still, this state park is quiet, peaceful, and has natural beauty. It has access to the I&M Canal Trail. Theres a playground, parking, picnic shelter, and restrooms available.
Liveoutdoors85: Just went out here for a few hours and was very nice. Beautiful views and was nice and quiet. The visitor center is closed and looks to have been closed for a while. Will be returning in the spring when everything is blooming to take some photos. Oh also saw a bit of wildlife as well which was nice.
Eat, Shop, Explore Illinois: If youre looking for a day of exploring and treasure hunting, then this is the spot for you! Two building filled with amazing vintage, handmade and unique items. Very kid friendly. I cant wait to go back to see more!
Robert Steck: Lake is for fishing/boating only with swimming not permitted. Our impression was that mostly locals frequent this campground. The sites are close together, though about 25% were out-of-service due to electrical issues, which gave us a buffer on one side. No water at any campsites and a single dump station. There is a nice 3.25 mile trail around the lake though it is poorly marked and easy to lose. The camp hostess was perhaps vacationing, as we never saw her, though a camp employee told us that the "Campground" Wi-Fi was for her use only, so no passwords were given out. Even with a cell booster, I could get only 1 bar on Verizon and 2 bars on ATT, with frequent drops and with no spot to get a clear view of the skies for Starlink, this isnt digital nomad friendly. They are looking for someone to manage the lake concession, so until that is resolved the nearest food or gas is McLeansboro about 9 miles to the west.
Karen: Carthage Lake is a beautiful lake on the western edge of Carthage, IL. At the entrance to the area, near Hwy. 136, is Jaycee Park with a kids play area, shelter houses for group gatherings, and seasonal restrooms. The Carthage Pool is across the park road. A crushed limestone path is great for walking with challenging hills. The 9-hole Carthage Golf Course is accessed from the lake road as well.
Robert Wagner: Is a WOMAN smarter than a MAN? A hidden GEM. Dr. ALICE KIBBE was a woman WAY before her time. If your an Illinois history buff or a rock hound this is the place for you. Small but mighty. This place has a lot of interesting tid bits about forgottonia.
