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Illinois State Parks

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Jubilee College State Park
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Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Michael Miller
Jubilee College State Park © Donald L. Phelps
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JUBILEE COLLEGE STATE PARK
JUBILEE COLLEGE STATE PARK
13921 W. Route 150
Brimfield, Illinois   61517

Phone: 309-446-3758
Reservations: 309-446-3758
Email: park email button icon
Jubilee College State Park is a 3,200-acre facility, located in Peoria County between the towns of Kickapoo and Brimfield, just off U.S. Route 150. This scenic area, with its rolling topography and meandering Jubilee Creek, offers various outdoor recreational opportunities.
Nature of the Area
Jubilee is situated in the Illinoisan drift-plain, and is deeply eroded into many complex valley systems, from near-level ridgetops and floodplains to steep slope ravines. Bedrock exposures are numerous and include shale, sandstone, limestone and coal. The highest elevation is 660 feet. The topography and Jubilee Creek constitute an aesthetically pleasing environment for outdoor recreation activities, and provide habitat for numerous wildlife and fish species. Visitors may see deer, rabbits, squirrel, fox, coyote and raccoon throughout the forests, while the creek may offer glimpses of mink, muskrat and beaver.

Over 160 species of birds are present, and wild turkeys, stocked in 1988, call Jubilee home.

Jubilee Creek is a tributary to Kickapoo Creek that passes through the park from northwest to southeast. It is characterized by deep pools and fast riffles. The average width is 40 feet and average depth is four inches. Fish species of interest to anglers include smallmouth bass, bluegill, catfish and carp. Swimming is prohibited in the creek.
History of the Area
Named Jubilee College by its founder, Episcopal Bishop Philander Chase in 1839, in expression of his thankfulness and joy, the college was one of the earliest educational enterprises in Illinois. Through a series of misfortunes climaxed by the Bishop's death, the college closed in 1862. In 1933 the college and grounds, consisting of 93 acres, were presented to the state of Illinois. Since that time the Department of Natural Resources increased the acreage to 3,200. The college building, placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, has been restored to its original appearance and is under the management of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. Contact the site for information at: Jubilee College State Historic Site, 11817 Jubilee College Rd., Brimfield, IL 61517, 309.243.9489, E-Mail

The park continues to flourish with the development of a new campground, day-use facilities, along with an entrance road and interior roads that now link the park and the college area.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bridle Trailsyes
CampingElectric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping
Campground facilities, open from April 15 to November 1, accommodate recreational vehicles or tents and include a shower building with flush toilets, a trailer dump station, graveled pads, and grills, water hydrants and primitive toilets. Campsites are Class A electric ($15.00) and Class C ($8.00) w/showers. Groups are welcome. Permits are required and can be obtained from the site staff or campground host. Reservations are no longer being accepted.

Winter Camping:

In the main camping area, Coyote Cove loop is open with Class B sites with electric, and primitive privies. No running water is available.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in a 3-acre pond, home to largemouth bass and bluegill. A valid license is required.


Location
Jubilee College State Park is located near Chillicothe, East Peoria and Peoria

Horse Area
An equestrian camping area is located at the north end of the park. Twenty-five miles of horseback riding trails originate from the camping area. Horse rentals are not available. The area includes drinking water, toilet facilities, a shelter house, picnic tables, grills and a pay phone. Campsites are Class B/S ($10.00). Overnight campers must self register at the self pay station located in the equestrian campground.
Picnicking
Several large picnic areas are located throughout the park's interior. Each area includes a shelter with electricity, picnic tables, charcoal grills, playground equipment, water hydrants and toilet facilities. Winter picnicking is permitted but some areas are closed.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore 40 miles of multi-use trails, but be aware they are shared with horseback riders.

The terrain varies from flat to hilly and is suitable for all skill levels.

Please note that some paths may become muddy or slippery after rain; caution should always be exercised.

During hunting season, bikers must wear blaze orange clothing as a safety precaution against accidental shootings.

Remember to bring your own bike since there's no rental facility available within the park premises.

Ensure you have ample water supply during summer months due to high temperatures which could lead dehydration if not careful.

Always follow trail etiquette by yielding right-of-way where necessary and keeping noise level down so as not disturb wildlife around you.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding options with over 160 species recorded, including warblers and woodpeckers. It features a variety of habitats such as forests, prairies, and wetlands that attract different birds. Birdwatchers can explore seven miles of hiking trails for optimal viewing opportunities. The best time to visit is during spring migration season.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 29 Mountain Bike Only Trails - NOT by Paul
park review stars; one to five Someone posted that the park has Mountain Bike Only Trails, this is not true all trails in the park are multi-use for all users.
September 6 Equine Park Trails by Sherrykup
park review stars; one to five I had a wonderful weekend at Jubilee, many trails to ride, we rode 3 hours easily our first afternoon. A lot of nice horse people all campers were friendly and many asked if we wanted to join them for a group ride. We did on our second day and rode for nearly 4 hours it was so enjoyable! We Will go back as much as possible!
June 28 Aweosme Park
park review stars; one to five they do have electric at the campgrounds, unless you camp at the primitive sites. They also have water at the majority of the pavillions and great shower facilities. By far one of the greatest parks in Central Il for Trail running, hiking,biking and horseback.
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Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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Hotels/Motels
Relax in the rustic beauty and comfort of Starved Rock Lodge, Cabins and Starved Rock Inn. The historic Lodge has 69 guest rooms, which include three bay-window rooms, plus cabins nestled in the woods. Fireplaces can be found in four of the eight sunset cabins near the pool area...
53.7 miles from park*
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Cottages and Cabins
Within a 10 minute drive from Starved Rock and even closer to Matthiessen State Parks you will find a gorgeous, tranquil property with spacious cabins on 50 wooded acres. All with full kitchens and outdoor fire pits. 3 dog friendly.
46.8 miles from park*
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Hotels/Motels
You will feel right at home when you reach Carroll County, our corner of beautiful Northwest Illinois. The magnificent Mississippi River and outdoor spaces will refresh your spirit and touch our soul.
93.5 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
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Directions
Jubilee College State Park can be reached from I-74.Eastbound: Brimfield Exit #75, left to US Rte 150. Then turn right on US Rte 150 and go 4 miles to park entrance on left.

Westbound: Kickapoo-Edwards Exit #82, right 1.5 miles to Kickapoo. Then left onto US Rte 150 for 4 miles to park entrance on right.

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Illinois
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Illinois State Parks

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