The Dayton Bluffs Preserve is located at 2997 Illinois Route 71 just north of Ottawa, south of the I-80 and Route 71 interchange on the West side of the road.
We currently have a gravel driveway and parking area and a porta potty on site. A master plan is being developed for future amenities, but the wildness of the Dayton Bluffs Preserve is what makes it special! You can experience 100 acres of open prairie in the midst of restoration, the majesty and cool shade of 150 woodland acres, rugged ravines, glistening water cascades, the beautiful Fox River, sacred Native American burial mounds and the Daniels family pioneer cemetery.
All City of Ottawa Parks rules, regulations and ordinances are enforced. All plants, animals, natural and historic objects are protected by law.
Dogs are welcome at Dayton Bluffs Preserve as long as they remain on a leash. We ask that you clean up all pet messes, and respect the natural and historic resources of the site.