Henry County - 5 Attractions You Must Visit

Baker Park is a lovely place to enjoy the outdoors and take part in exciting recreational activities. This park covers over 600 acres of land, so there's plenty of room for joggers, cyclists, hikers and birdwatchers. Several scenic trails meander through prairies and wetlands in search of nature's beauty. Kayak rentals are available on the park’s lagoon while families often bait up at any one of four shimmering ponds stocked with plenty of fish.

The Bishop Hill State Historic Site is a reminder of America's vestige of Utopian communal living. It is the site of the communal colony established by Swedish immigrants in 1846, founded on principles of hard work, resource sharing, and cooperation. A museum highlights artifacts from this time period while guided tours are available through restored historical buildings like the Steeple Building which served as their church and the Colony Store Museum.

Francis Park is a stunning example of rolling terrain and lush green foliage. Located on 158 acres east of the small town of Atkinson and overlooking the Rock River, it offers diverse and peaceful recreation opportunities for all types of visitors. Whether you're looking for a place to go for a hike, bike, or picnic with your family, Francis Park has something to offer. For those seeking more strenuous activities such as canoeing and kayaking, you won't be disappointed.

Johnson Sauk Trail State Recreation Area is a unique and scenic location for outdoor recreation. This area includes a lake surrounded by lush greenery that is perfect for picnicking and fishing. Visitors can go for stunning hikes along trails with great views of the hills and valleys of the region. The campgrounds provide all the necessaries to experience an extended stay in nature. Although motorized vehicles aren't allowed, horseback riding on the trails is a popular activity.

Ryan’s Historic Round Barn built in 1917 by Anton J. Ryan and his brother-in-law Leonard Schullenzee, this historic structure was meant to last for many years. This round barn is made of wooden frame covered with wooden shingles and the interior is finished with a bright white wash. The main feature of this building is its 52-foot diameter that allows for plentiful storage space for livestock and other agricultural supplies while still providing plenty of light and ventilation.