Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation

​Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, April 1st through October 31st, from 10am-3pm

Private mill tours and rental space are available April through October outside of public open hours.

The Grist Mill is available for school and group tours by appointment.

Franklin Creek State Natural Area and Franklin Creek Headwaters are open to the public daily, year-round.

Other Local Attractions

Visit Lee County’s website will tell you all you want to know about food, lodging and things to do in Lee County. Below is a selection of locations in both Lee and Ogle counties that can be a part of your visit.

Dixon, Grand Detour & Harmon
  • John Deere Historic Site
  • Lowell Park
  • Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home
  • ​Northwest Territory Historic Center
  • Green River State Wildlife Area
Byron & Rochelle
  • Jarrett Prairie Center
  • Nardi Equine Preserve
  • Bald Hill
  • Howard Coleman Creek Preserve
  • Skare Park
  • Rochelle Flagg Township Museum
Franklin Grove, Oregon & Mt. Morris
  • Nachusa Grasslands
  • Lowden State Park
  • Lowden-Miller State Park
  • Castle Rock State Park
  • Conover Square
  • Oregon Soap Shoppe
  • Chaplin Creek Village
  • White Pines Forest State Park

Places To Stay At Franklin Creek

Mill Spring Cottage

1480 Old Mill Road
Franklin Grove, IL, 61031

Relax with the whole family at this unique and peaceful cabin in the middle of the 900-acre Franklin Creek State Natural Area.

This 2 bed, 2 bath, and loft cottage offers modern amenities. All proceeds benefit Franklin Creek Conservation Association to care for the natural areas of Franklin Creek for current and future generations.

Franklin Creek Cabin

1484 Old Mill Road
Franklin Grove, IL, 61031

A very scenic and relaxing hideaway at the north edge of the great Illinois prairie.

This 3 story, 3 bedroom, 3 bath, and loft is the perfect family and friends getaway.