Sylvan Island Recreational Park is located on the Mississippi River just off the shore of Moline Illinois. The Island is connected to the mainland and is accessible by a walking bridge! The park is a converted abandoned industrial site, that is still riddled with the remains of the long forgotten Sylvan Steel plant. The plant was open from the 1890’s until the 1950’s. While lots of evidence of the plants existence still exists, nature is slowly devouring the remaining ruins. The park is located on 2nd street and 1st avenue in Moline.

Frank Ruiz

For years the Island sat abandoned, and was a popular spot for fishermen, and bird watchers. Now the island is officially open to the public, and is once again making a big impact in the community.

Sylvan Island has a total acreage of 37 acres, with 1.24 miles of trails both circling the Island and winding throughout. The park is open daily, year round from 6 am until sunset.

There is also a picnic area, numerous scenic overlooks, and countless spots for fishing. Scattered across the island are the remains of the former steel mill, and there are also a few underground passages that take you into the old basements of long torn down buildings. Most of these are hard to find, and are located on the Eastern side of the park.

The Island has become a popular location for mountain biking over the years with numerous trails designed for cyclists. There is even an annual race held on the Island called Taming Of The Slough.

Chad Mayerhofer

Fishing is another popular attraction found on and around the Island. The River is loaded with huge catfish, perch, and a wide variety of other species.

The Island is also loaded with folklore, and numerous stories and legends surround the park. One story dates back to the 1960’s, when a car had to be towed out of the river. Scuba Divers where called in to fasten chains to the submerged vehicle to tow it out of the water. Moments later the divers returned to land scared to death,claiming the car had 10 foot long Giant Catfish swimming  around it, both divers refused to return into the water and the submerged car remains today.

In the 1970’s there were stories of Lizard men living within the subterranean tunnels found on the Island.

Even today the Island has its share of stories. Just recently Haunted Illinois, listed Sylvan Island as the most haunted place in the entire state. You can read about their investigation by clicking here.  I have personally visited the Island 100’s of times and never seen anything supernatural. I can say; this is one very unique area, and its worth your time to visit and explore.

Whether you’re an urban explorer, hiking enthusiast, ghost hunter or history buff. Sylvan Island Recreational Park is a place you are sure to love!

Marcus Anderson

For more great locations in Illinois, click here.