Springfield Park District offers nature lovers and hikers the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors through nature, hiking and equestrian type trails. Trails are located at both Carpenter and Riverside parks and can be enjoyed from dawn to dusk.

Carpenter Park is used largely for hiking and nature observation. It is located just north of the banks of the Sangamon River. Trail maps are available at the park.

Riverside Park is located south of the Sangamon River and provides both a nature/equestrian adventure and open green space for more activities. As a special note, Riverside park does flood during the Spring of each year periodically due to the rise of water from the Sangamon River. The park will be closed for safety reasons during flood season.

Etiquette and Safety

• Stay to the right.
• To avoid conflict with other users, pass to the left, announcing "On Your Left" before you overtake slower moving traffic
• Please avoid stopping and blocking the path. Step off to the side if you wish to talk or stop for any other reason.
• Leash all pets. “Curb” your dogs.
• Please dispose of all trash properly. This is your trail. Keep it clean.
• Poison ivy and poison oak are common along the trail. Avoid contact with plants unless you are certain of the species.

Who can use the Nature Trails?
Trail users welcome on the path include walkers, runners, strollers, wheelchairs. The trail is open the entire year, from sunrise to dusk. Please avoid excessive deviation from the trail so that the vegetation lining may be enjoyed for as long as possible.

NOTE: Trails are for non-motorized use only. NO automobiles, ATVs, motorcycles, or other motorized vehicles are allowed. Additionally, no horses are allowed on the trail.