A gorgeous nature reserve hidden in a cemetery

Varied terrain, unusual plant habitat.

A gem in Elgin. The cemetery is very beautiful (includes a Civil War Memorial). The trails arent the widest, most well-maintained trails (at least in the winter!) so I wouldnt go right after a rain or snow or to run, but it all adds to the charm of this little tucked-away piece of nature. Nice views from the hilltop of a small prairie.

Beautiful place. Very relaxing. Its a bit of that you have to go through a cemetery to get there, but the scenery is lovely. Its sooo quiet. There are rare birds and many wild flowers growing there.

Such a beautiful place to be.

I need more time to explore this place but so far im giving it a 3 star. but im hoping next time it should change my mind about this place in order for me to recommend to others and give my accurate star rating.

Nice place .Look out for ticks this time of year.

Beautiful place

I discovered this place by accident and now try to go at least once during each season of the year. The entrance is hidden at the back of the cemetery where there are about 4 parking spaces. This is a place for people who enjoy a nature walk without high expectations of overwhelming scenery. It is beautiful in its simplicity and if you like to stare at clouds and the sky-- there can be some great viewing here above the wide open native fields. The paths are mostly fine gravel and can sometimes get muddy so you may want to take that into consideration. This is NOT a picnic ground or party place. Just a quiet place to go for a pleasant walk. If you are lucky youll see deer, butterflies and native birds.

A hidden gem on the edge of Elgin, this fen has many trails that are preserved by a group of volunteers. There are many species of birds, butterflies, and plants. Entrance is primarily through the Bluff City Cemetery.

Nice place for a walk. Lot of ticks in the summer.

Beautiful and peaceful...

Very nice hidden gem. Relaxing, very unique plant life and land scape.

Trails are a little rough...lots of vegetation. Wear long pants. Fun to explore!

Beautiful spot for a sunset walk

The Bluff Spring Fen is a unusual place for a pleasant day hike of two hours or less. It centers on a warm-water spring (50 degrees) that runs year-round and supports a rare ecology of plants and animals. The topography is varied, including prairie, glacial kames, and stands of burr oak as well as the spring stream. In addition to unusual flowers, weve often seen deer on a hike. A dedicated group of odd-balls known as the Friends of the Fen have done a great job of cleaning up what was formerly an abused dumping ground and limiting and eliminating invasive species to restore this unique corner - bravo!Located next to the historic and scenic Bluff City Cemetery where old war memorials and tombstones may be seen on hilly walks.Access to the Fen is through the Cemetery, read the signs, dont get locked in.See the website for tour and volunteer opportunities.

Probably one of the coolest places in elgin

Not dog friendly . Violators will be subject to arrest.

Great for kids & big kids!

A gem of the area. Prairie, oak savanna and fen all at one location.

A Gem

The Fen is a bit underwhelming. The cemetery is FANTASTIC!

God god

Lots of flowers!

Needs marked trails. Trails that come up with map are not on ground. Also trails need to be wider. Confusing trails.

Pretty