Explore A Little-Known Arboretum In This Small Illinois Country Town

Illinois is practically an outdoor wonderland, with incredible networks of hiking trails, state parks, gardens, and miles of beautiful countryside. One of my favorite aspects of Illinois nature is the massive amount of forestry — nothing helps me connect more to the environment than feeling like I'm fully immersed in it. One great way to accomplish that is by visiting an arboretum, where dense pockets of lush trees tower create canopies that cover you like a blanket, and everything around you is green. And this hidden gem arboretum in Petersburg, IL is one of the best-kept leafy secrets in the state.

Located in Central Illinois, Starhill Forest Arboretum, 12000 Boy Scout Trail, is a private arboretum owned by Sternberg family since 1976. Now serving as the official arboretum of Illinois College, the beautiful outdoor destination is an essential piece of the larger community.

Across its 50 acres, Starhill showcases more than 2,300 woody plants — including one of the country's most impressive collections of oak varieties. More than 750 oaks of different varieties can be found throughout the forest, with some dating back as far as 1850.

While the location is technically private (there is also a residence on site!), visitors and guided tours are welcome — you just need to reach out to the arboretum first. Admission is free, though the preserve accepts donations.

The team here does an exceptional job of not only learning about every aspect of their collection, but also hyping it up for the public and other nature lovers to appreciate. World-renowned oak expert Guy Sternberg, who lives at the arboretum and co-founded it with his wife, is one of the most well-known arborists in recent history and has even created hybrid versions of oaks. This oak, known as a Sternberg Oak, was identified in Texas.

In the fall, the giant trees turn into golden towers with a stunning orange and yellow glow.

The arboretum is also known for its landscaping, gardens, and robust roster of flowers, including these gorgeous hydrangeas.

Of course, it's also home to a number of wildlife species, including deer, snakes, birds, reptiles, and insects. Nearly 120 species of birds have been identified in the forest since 1979.

The arboretum's reach extends into the charming small town of Petersburg, where native gardens have been placed to help attract pollinators and monarch butterflies — two crucial actors in keeping the health of our natural environment.

A tranquil haven for nature and reflection, this hidden gem arboretum in Petersburg, IL is doing all it can to nurture its land and everything that lives on it. It's truly a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful and educational adventure with nature. Start planning your trip now by checking out the Starhill Forest Arboretum website and the Starhill Forest Arboretum Facebook page. And did you know that President Abraham Lincoln also had ties to Petersburg? The Lincoln New Salem Historic Site is a recreated village of where Lincoln lived for 6 years. Stay for a weekend and visit the arboretum, take a candlelight walk through the New Salem village, and stay in this top-rated historic downtown loft, which puts you just steps away from local shopping and dining.