Rush Creek State Natural Area

Located north of Ferryville, the Rush Creek State Natural Area encompasses exceptional dry prairies, oak forest, and 400-foot limestone-capped bluffs. The prairies on the very steep, southwestfacing slopes hold blazing-star, compass-plant and bird’s-foot violets. The north-facing hillsides are forested with red and white oak, black walnut, hickory, basswood, and sugar maple. Rush creek runs through the middle of this 2027-acre property. It harbors numerous species of songbirds during the spring and fall migrations. The steep climb to the top of the bluffs is rewarded with a spectacular view of the Mississippi River.

Directions: From Ferryville, go north on Hwy. 35 for 3.1 miles, then northeast on Rush Creek Road for 0.5 mile to a parking area west of the road. Cross the road and walk east on the old lane to the bluff top.

Gazetteer: Page 32, B-2.

Phone: 608/785-9000.

Web site: Rush Creek State Natural Area

Signature Species: Turkey Vulture and Kentucky Warbler.

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Parking lot on Rush Creek Road.

Nearest food & lodging: Ferryville, 3 miles south on Hwy 35.