Fransen Nature Area

So lovely! Our family enjoys this wonderful nature area.

Not at all what I expected! But then, I had no idea what to expect. I don’t think it’s much bigger than a large city lot (or two). It’s surrounded by mature trees, many of which appeared to my untrained eye to be spruce. They make for a beautiful backdrop to the prairie like center that is filled with naturally growing plants. I don’t know for sure, but I’d assume they are native to this part of the country, if not this specific site. In one corner of the site there is also a small pond that is stocked with something resembling goldfish. No, not Koi! They’re considerably smaller than that… think goldfish! It is so cool to see the schools of these very bright orange fish moving through the pond! But, as you walk towards the end of the pier, before you even notice the fish, you notice the sounds… sounds of nature that most people, in our sterile world don’t often hear. This place has a wonderful, magical quality! It seems to connect those of us who are open to it, to something that at one time was a part of who we were. Well, if not us specifically, something our ancestors would have readily recognized… it connects us to nature!

Always a favorite place to take a little stroll

Illinois is 2nd flattest state in america behind florida. This place is perfect for walking and exercising. If in the normal area, be sure to see franzen park. There seem to be hundreds of jetting reddish orange lights coming from the bluish green waters. Area was clean well maintained. Small trail around back side of pond for the super adventurous. There's also donkeys on the side of the trail in some dudes backyard. Pretty cool to see . very clean and hope it remains . great site illinois

This is such a nice little place! With tall grasses and flowers, Fransen Nature Area is not only beautiful but also attracts goldfinches. You can walk through this scenic area on a short path which leads to a small pond, which is home to fish, herons, and ducks.

Very small, only space for 2 cars to park but beautiful scenery. Saw about 7 turtles swimming in the pond. Great escape from reality. The neighboring property has a couple donkeys too. Great place for outdoor pictures with a variety of beautiful prairie grass and flowers.

This is a cute place. It's a small area with lots of wildflower and butterflies. Has a little seating area, a trash can so you don't need to carry around the baggy if your dog drops one. It also has acute little pier thing so look out at a tiny little pond. My husband and I and our dog went there one day just to see what it was all about. We saw some little turtles in the pond just hanging out, turtling around.

Great smaller area to enjoy nature. Nice walking path that accommodates strollers.
Would love to see signage of species details.
Pond has fish, frogs, turtles and an occasional racoon.
Dog friendly.

This was my first time enjoying this space. I went to see some Green Herons that are making the pond their home. Many frogs, turtles, and goldfish also call this pond home. It is a very nice area where you almost forget you are in Normal...

Small quiet spot to get outdoors.
Nice gravel path. Benches. Small pond viewing deck. Passable, with courage, path all the way around the pond. Kids like this spot.

Absolutely gorgeous and peaceful

Small secluded natural prairie.

Beautiful area for relaxing, reading a book, and taking pictures. Parking is hard as you will probably have to park in a nearby neighborhood and walk in.

Very neat little park. Perfect for younger ages. Paths aren't paved but easy to walk on.

A lot of prairie flowers and a real nice pond.

Very nice little nature trail

Beautiful area even in the late Fall!

Beatiful little nature area

Great place to walk

Excellent