Information About Wood River, Illinois USA

Wood River is a city located in Madison County, Illinois, United States. It has a population of approximately 10,500 people and covers an area of 7.07 square miles. The city is located about 20 miles northeast of St. Louis, Missouri and is part of the St. Louis Metropolitan Area.

The city was founded in 1908 and named after the nearby Wood River Creek. The area was initially used for farming, but with the discovery of oil in the early 1900s, the city became a major center for oil production. The city's economy is now diversified, with manufacturing, healthcare, and retail as some of the major employers.

Wood River is a family-friendly community with a variety of recreational opportunities. The city has 12 parks, including the Belk Park, which has a swimming pool, golf course, and playgrounds. The city is also home to the Wood River Aquatic Center, which features a lazy river, waterslides, and a children's play area.

The Wood River community offers several events throughout the year, including the Wood River Summer Fest, which features live music, carnival rides, and food vendors. The city also hosts the Route 66 Festival, which celebrates the history of the famous highway that runs through the city.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Wood River offers easy access to nearby hiking and biking trails, including the Confluence Trail, which runs along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. The city is also located near the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, which commemorates the famous explorers' expedition through the area.

In terms of education, Wood River is served by the East Alton-Wood River School District, which includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. The city is also home to the Lewis and Clark Community College, which offers a range of degree and certificate programs.

Overall, Wood River offers a great quality of life for its residents with its many amenities, community events, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities.