Office of Recreation and Park Resources University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Helping Build Healthy Communities

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Office of Recreation & Park Resources

The Office of Recreation and Park Resources (ORPR) is the primary public engagement arm of the Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism at the University of Illinois. We believe that recreation and parks are essential services for an improved quality of life for all individuals and communities and that all Illinois residents should have access to these services.

Champaign County Forest Preserve District – Lake of the Woods

HI-Tower Bell Carillon was completed in 1965 and stands at 100 feet tall. A highlight of any visit to Lake of the Woods includes a climb to the top of this tower for sweeping views! Lake of the Woods is also a great place to fish or take a ride its extensive bike paths.

Historic Normal Theater – Normal Parks and Recreation Department

Normal Theater provides an unparalleled recreation experience. Capture the magic of viewing movies in the theater again. Where else can you watch films that are fun, foreign or artistic?

Meadowbrook Park – Urbana Park District

This community park has it all! Meadowbrook is comprised of 130 acres of restored prairie, sculpture gardens, organic gardening, walking/biking paths and a large playground. You also shouldn’t miss the chance to look for deer, the American woodcock and a variety of other plants and animals.

Who We Are

The Office of Recreation and Park Resources (ORPR) develops services for and provides assistance to park and recreation practitioners and community officials.

Provides on-site consultation regarding community park and recreation issues and concerns.
Conducts applied research and evaluation in public parks and recreation.
Develops and provides education and training for park and recreation practitioners, elected officials and community residents.