It seems like just a short time ago when six friends purchased a small bar under the water tower in Ogden. But 20 years later, owner George Woodard sees the fruits of the investment.
After an addition to the space to include a dining area and under the guidance of Chuck Buck, Billy Bob’s has grown to become a staple in many East Central Illinois residents life.
Billy Bob’s offers something for everyone with their menu full of homemade favorites such as hamburgers, steaks, baked potatoes, shrimp, catfish, ribs and corned beef, just to name a few.
Kathy from Urbana brings her husband and daughter several times a week for the fried mushrooms and friendly staff who “always knows what she wants!”
Friends from Fithian followed Chuck Buck to Billy Bob‘s seventeen years ago because they’ve “never found anything they don’t like on the menu” and because the food always comes out consistent.
And while the owner George is equally as interested in the quality of food and service, it was his vision to produce an environment that families want to visit time and time again.
Wildlife and natural beauty abound in the 814 acres at Homer Lake Forest Preserve near Homer, Illinois. From sledding when the snow falls to fishing and boating in the summer months, Homer Lake is a beautiful setting for visitors to get away for some relaxation. With approximately 10 miles of trails, this preserve is a favorite for hikers. Trails cross grasslands, prairies and woodlands, and hikers can walk along the Salt Fork River or around the secluded Collins Pond. Opportunities abound for nature study or bird-watching. Horseback riding is not allowed on the trails.
The first phase of the Kickapoo Rail Trail is now open! Work on the trail began in the spring of 2016 and the 6.7 mile Urbana to St. Joseph trail segment is open to the public for hiking, biking, and other non-motorized uses.
The multi-purpose recreational trail will extend 24.5 miles to Kickapoo State Park in Vermilion County. The trail is designed for pedestrians and bicyclists to traverse some of the most diverse ecosystems in this part of the state, including woodland, prairie, and wetland.
This trail system is directional, with a generally counterclockwise flow beginning at the trailhead. It is hard packed singletrack with a mixture of log jumps, dips, intense climbs, and fast flowing sections. There are downhills that offer the chance get up some speed and switchbacks that are technical enough for just about any rider. You’ll also find a couple shallow water crossings. There are about 14 miles of trails to make it worth the drive.