Stone’s Throw Golf Course
8817 N 800th St, (618) 783-3790
Just two and a half miles south of Newton, Stone’s Throw Golf Course is an 18-hole public course that challenges every level of player. A pro-shop and lounge ensure that golfers are well taken care of. Stone’s Throw has hosted several golf outings and has a banquet facility perfect for receptions and large groups.

Peterson ParkPeterson Park
Located on the north side of Newton along Route 130, Peterson Park offers a variety of amenities. Two covered picnic areas and three shaded picnic areas make ideal locations for get-togethers with family and friends. A public swimming pool and playgrounds are located on either side of two tennis courts and a basketball court. Batting cages and a miniature golf course are open seasonally. The park also includes a sand volleyball court, an area that can be used for horseshoes and hills that are frequently used for sledding in the winter.

Dufrain ParkEarl Dufrain Park
Earl Dufrain Park is located on Liberty Avenue in Newton. The park is surrounded by a friendly neighborhood and features a playground as well as a newly constructed skateboard park.

Jasper County Boys and Girls Park
503 S. Scott St., (618) 783-8030
The Boys and Girls Park on Scott Avenue is home to Newton’s Babe Ruth League baseball and softball diamonds. With a total of five ball diamonds, the park hosts several state and regional softball tournaments and two national championships. It is also home to the Newton Eagles baseball games and the Lady Eagles softball games.
 

Sam Parr State Park
For several decades the residents of Jasper County worked for a state park, assisted and encouraged by a former resident and conservationist, Sam Parr. In 1960, 72 acres of land were acquired by the Department of Natural Resources and the Jasper County Conservation Area became a reality. Additional acquisitions have brought the total acreage to 1,180, including a 183-acre lake.
After the death of Sam Parr in 1966, the General Assembly changed the name from Jasper County to Sam Parr. The site was formally dedicated on May 12, 1972. It is 3 miles northeast of Newton.

The Lake
The dam built in 1971, impounds a 183-acre lake. The maximum depth is 28 feet and the shoreline is 9 miles. The lake is nestled in a rolling timbered area and has attracted nesting wood ducks. The lake contains largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish and bullhead. Two launching ramps are located on the west side of the lake.

Boating
Boats with maximum 10 hp motors are allowed on the lake, and canoes are popular. Boat dock rentals are available. Fishing access and parking is also available on the east side of the lake via a county road.

Trails
Facilities at Sam Parr include four picnic areas for day use, shelters in all areas, more than 2 miles of foot trails, 13 miles of equestrian trails.

Directions

From the north: Follow Rt. 130 south to Rt. 33 east. Turn east on Rt. 33 and go 1 mile to park entrance.
From the south: Follow Rt. 130 north to Rt 33 east. Turn east on Rt. 33 and go 1 mile to park entrance. From the west: Follow Rt. 33 east from Effingham 25 miles to park entrance. (2 mile east of Newton). From the east: Follow Rt. 33 west 21 mile from Robinson to park entrance.

While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.
For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs' Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.