Anderson Prairie is a mile-long, 200 foot-wide strip of former railroad bed where many Illinois native prairie plants have managed to survive.

The park is located south of Illinois Route 16 on Chestnut Street. The north entrance is just across the street from Pana High School. The main entrance is 1/2 mile south.

If you have any questions about the prairie, contact Pana High School biology teacher Dave Nance at: dnance@panaschools.com

Click on the icon at right to find a general map of the Pana area and roads that lead to Anderson Prairie Park. Not all Pana streets are included for the sake of simplicity.

Enjoy your visit to Anderson Prairie Park. 

Be sure to follow a few simple, ethical rules when enjoying Anderson Prairie or other Illinois Nature Preserves.

-Stay on Trails to avoid trampling emerging plants and compacting the soil. A mile long trail through Anderson Prairie Park takes visitors through all of the different habitats represented here. A special wildflower trail will take you through the most diverse section of the prairie. Binoculars can help you enjoy plants located off the trail.

-Do Not Harvest Seeds. Overharvesting of prairie sites can affect future plant populations and winter food for wildlife.

-Park in Designated Areas. Parking is conveniently located at Anderson Prairie.

-Observe Park Hours. Anderson Prairie Park is open from sunrise to sunset.