The conference participated in athletics and activities in the Illinois High School Association.

Originally known as the Stephenson County Conference, the first year of competition was 1958 with four charter schools: Dakota, Durand, Lena-Winslow and Orangeville.

In 1959 Freeport Aquin, Galena, Stockton and Warren joined from the disbanded US Grant Conference.

Additionally, in 1966, Lanark, from Carroll County, joined the conference, bringing the total number of schools to 10.

Officially formed in 1974, the 7 members were Dakota, Freeport Aquin, Galena, Lanark, Lena-Winslow, Stockton and Warren.