Lake Carlton in Morrison-Rockwood State Park was created in 1969, when a 38-foot-high and 1,800-foot-long earthen embankment was built across a stream. The reservoir is part of a 1,164-acre park north of Morrison in Whiteside County. Water and construction history come together here—a tangible introduction to the county’s landscape.
Discover Waterways and Nature
Water also shapes the landscape at Prophetstown State Park: the park lies on the south bank of the Rock River, and Coon Creek flows through the grounds before joining the Rock River. The Wa-bo-kie-shiek Nature Trail follows the creek’s edge for about a third of a mile. Its manageable length makes the course of Coon Creek the focus of the trail. The park is also located at the former site of Wa-bo-kie-shiek’s village, which was destroyed on May 10, 1832.
The Hennepin Canal combines outdoor recreation with history. The entire canal is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. More than 100 miles of scenic towpaths run along the canal. Parking areas by the canal make it easy to switch to biking or hiking. Since surface conditions and access can change seasonally, check them before setting out. The Hennepin Canal Visitor Center is located right on the towpath. It features museum exhibits, models of a lock system and an aqueduct, as well as preserved Illinois wildlife. Check the published opening hours before your trip.
Windmills and History on the Mississippi
In Fulton, De Immigrant was rebuilt on a levee above the Mississippi River. The 100-foot-tall Dutch windmill had previously been built in the Netherlands. Tours explain its construction and repair, as well as the milling process. The Windmill Cultural Center houses more than 20 European model windmills from ten European countries. This offers a look at different windmills from many parts of Europe alongside one large, individual windmill. The center’s gift shop offers stone-ground flour, Delftware, and souvenirs; the selection may change.
Heritage Canyon features a reconstructed 19th-century village in a restored 12-acre quarry on the Mississippi River. At special events, the Early American Crafters and other historical groups demonstrate pioneer crafts. If you’d like to see these demonstrations, check the event dates before visiting. The Great River Trail runs through Fulton. An interpretive painting in Fulton depicts the former Fulton-Lyons Toll Bridge, which drivers could use to cross the Mississippi. The Lock & Dam 13 Recreation Area adds another perspective on the water, with a boat launch, an observation platform overlooking the lock chamber, scenic views, and a picnic shelter. The launch provides access to the Mississippi River and the backwaters of Pool 13.
Places and Events with Their Own Stories
The apartment is open to the public as the Ronald Reagan Birthplace and was designated a National Historic Site in 2002. Period-style exhibits feature photographs, memorabilia, and interpretive displays about Ronald Reagan’s childhood and family life. The Andresen Nature Center offers a different perspective on nature, showcasing native wildlife, insects, and plants from the Upper Mississippi River watershed. Visits are available on a schedule or by appointment.
The Whiteside County Fair in Morrison features agriculture, food, exhibits, family-friendly entertainment, and traditional harness racing. The race is a long-standing tradition and continues to draw spectators every year; the fair dates vary each year. This matters when planning your trip: a visit around the fair depends on its dates, while the Andresen Nature Center can be visited on a schedule or by appointment.
Discover more destinations: Fenton, Rock Falls, Grundy County, Wabash County, Bond County, Henry County, Jefferson, Monroe County.
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