9 Things to Do in Jasper County, Illinois

Nestled on the western bank of the Embarras River, Jasper County features not one but two designated state fish and wildlife areas. Home to just under 10,000 people, the county draws visitors with its plentiful opportunities for fishing, hiking and horseback riding. With greenways, eagle trails and more, Jasper County and its county seat, Newton, offer sightseeing and adventure in the great outdoors for all ages, plus an ode to a famed resident.

Check out these destinations on your spring getaway to Jasper County, and visit visitjaspercountyil.org for more local events and places to explore.

1. Sam Parr State Park

Formally known as Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area in Newton, this park covers nearly 1,200 acres. Featured activities include boating, canoeing, equestrian and hiking trails, fishing, hunting, and picnicking. The park offers 10 campsites and a day-use shelter. A dam built in 1971 created a 183-acre lake with 9 miles of shoreline.

See more: New Philadelphia, Illinois’ Newest National Park, Brings Energy to An Inspiring Historic Site

2. Newton’s Downtown

Combining small-town ideals and big-city ambition, Newton features three parks within its city limits. Peterson Park has an aquatic center, batting cages, disc golf and a miniature golf course. The Jasper County Museum preserves local history through many exhibits. A mural project featuring work by community members adds color and variety to downtown Newton. Plus, a variety of restaurants and shops line the main corridors of Jourdan and Van Buren streets.

3. Grave of Burl Ives

Jasper County’s favorite son, beloved holiday songster and Academy Award winner Burl Ives, was born in Hunt City in 1909 and passed away in 1995. The singer and actor, who appeared in 1958’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, gained lasting fame for his portrayal of Sam the Snowman in the 1964 television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. You can visit the pop culture mainstay’s gravesite at Mound Cemetery in Willow Hill.

4. Jasper County Veterans Memorial

Dedicated in 1941 by Jasper County veterans, this monument honors the memory of those who fought in seven eras ranging from World War I to the Persian Gulf. In fact, it’s one of two memorial markers in Newton recognizing the sacrifice of local men and women in armed conflicts. There’s also a statue honoring Burl Ives and four other historical markers mere steps from this memorial, located near the Jasper County Courthouse in Newton.

5. Rising Sun Family Farms

A seventh-generation farming family welcomes visitors to Rising Sun Family Farms, located between the towns of Willow Hill and Sainte Marie. The farm offers U-pick and pre-picked strawberries, typically in May and June. Last fall, they planted some 36,000 new plants for the spring season. The farm store offers a variety of other seasonal delights, including honey, peaches, blackberries, sweet corn and more.

See more: Illinois U-Pick Strawberry Farms Welcome Families for a Tasty Adventure

6. Embarras River Bridge

Constructed in 1890 by the Chicago Bridge & Iron Company, this bridge replaced a wooden one previously on the site. The nearly 150-foot bridge, renovated in 2015, offers bike and pedestrian crossing. Built more than 130 years ago and recognized as one of the oldest bridges in the state, the Embarras River Bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places. Now part of the Eagle Trails system, the bridge offers some of the best photography opportunities in the county.

7. Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

This popular conservation and recreation area, home to a 1,775-acre lake, showcases more than 50 miles of shoreline. Boating and picnicking are popular pastimes here, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocks the lake with black crappie. Other wild species, including largemouth bass, white bass and channel catfish, are plentiful, too. The lake hosts dozens of fishing tournaments annually.

8. Irene’s Vineyard & Winery

Owned and operated by the Boldrey family, this vineyard on the North Fork Creek cultivates grapes and makes a variety of both red and white wines. A tasting experience allows visitors to try several styles of wine, and an on-site restaurant offers a menu of finger foods and handmade pizzas. The winery hosts festivals and other events, both ticketed and private.

9. The Freeze

Visiting the many attractions throughout Jasper County works up an appetite. Fulfill your cravings at The Freeze, a popular family eatery in the center of Newton. From tacos served several ways – soft shell, in a bag, in a boat, as a salad and more – to Philly steaks, homemade pulled barbecue, burgers, fish and even deep-fried pretzels, The Freeze is a tasty destination six days a week (closed Sundays).

See more: Local Flavor: Joe’s Italian Foods & Pizza