R. Robert Funderburg
4551 S. Meridian Road, Rockford IL, 61102
Funderburg Forest Preserve’s 868.6 acres provides valuable wildlife habitat and is home to a variety of plant species and numerous species of birds. Located adjacent to Severson Dells Forest Preserve and also connecting to the Byron Forest Preserve District’s Howard Coleman Hall Creek Preserve and Natural Land Institute’s Coleman Dells Nature Preserve. This area offers a unique opportunity for three land organizations to preserve and manage one large contiguous piece of land where plant and wildlife can thrive in an uninterrupted habitat area.
Currently there is a network of hiking trails, offering preserve users opportunities for shorter or longer hikes based on available time and abilities through mild to moderate terrain.
Acquired in 2020 with financial assistance provided by and in cooperation with the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, the preserve is under development. Future plans for the preserve include converting crop farmed areas to prairie and savannah type habitat and preservation of the existing woodlands.
Seasonal Highlights: R. Robert Funderburg Forest Preserve is a prime spot for observing birds during spring and fall migrations as well as viewing spectacular autumn colors in the forested areas.
Acres: 868.6
Access Road: Yes
Restrooms: No
Drinking Water: No
Picnic Tables: No
Shelterhouses: No
Playground Equipment: No
Ball Fields: No
Horseback Trails: No
Hiking Trails (miles): 8
Campground Sites: No
Boat Launch: No
Canoe Launch: No
18 Hole Golf Course: No
Illinois Nature Preserve: No
Donated Land: No
Natural Areas: Yes