Nature preservation areas in Illinois

Forest Glen Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 20301 900 North Road in Westville, Illinois, United States. This beautiful natural retreat offers visitors the opportunity to explore lush forests, tranquil lakes, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic, go bird watching, or simply soak in the beauty of nature, Forest Glen Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the serenity and splendor of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Crabtree Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3 Stover Road in Barrington, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with miles of hiking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits showcasing the local flora and fauna. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or a tourist wanting to experience the beauty of Illinois, Crabtree Nature Center is the perfect destination for you. Come and immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world at this serene and picturesque location.

Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center is a travel agency located at 3609 Spring Road in Oak Brook, Illinois, United States. This institution offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts, providing guided tours and educational programs in the beautiful Fullersburg Woods Nature Preserve. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area, learn about conservation efforts, and participate in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned nature lover or just looking to connect with the great outdoors, Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center is the perfect destination for an enriching and memorable adventure.

Oakdale Nature Preserve, located at 4433 South Cranes Grove Road in Freeport, Illinois, is a beautiful 133-acre park that offers a variety of natural attractions. Just three miles south of Freeport on Baileyville Road, this park features forests, streams, and restored prairies for visitors to explore. New amenities at Oakdale Nature Preserve include a spacious picnic shelter, a nature-based playground, trail enhancements, and wayfinding signage. With over four miles of trails that wind through forests, tall grass prairies, and streams, there is plenty to do at Oakdale year-round. Visitors can hike, bike, jog, cross-country ski, snowshoe, picnic, photograph, bird watch, track animals, and identify plants.

Creek Bend Nature Center is a charming institution nestled at 37W700 Dean Street in St. Charles, Illinois, United States. This nature center offers a serene and immersive experience for visitors to explore the beauty of the surrounding environment. With its scenic location along the creek, visitors can enjoy educational exhibits, interactive displays, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking trails, birdwatching, and nature programs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking to connect with the great outdoors, Creek Bend Nature Center provides a peaceful retreat for all ages to enjoy and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Hammel Woods Recreation Area, located at 23601 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, is a 445-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the DuPage River preservation system. The preserve features forest and wetland habitats, and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are opportunities for shoreline fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the DuPage River. The park also offers a dog park, primitive campsites, and geocaching permits. With three access areas, Hammel Woods is a great destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration in the Joliet area.

Pilcher Park Nature Center is a serene oasis located at 2501 Highland Park Drive in Joliet, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The park features lush greenery, winding trails, and a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect place for nature lovers to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an educational experience, Pilcher Park Nature Center has something for everyone.

Hickory Creek Preserve - Hickory Creek Junction is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 21063 Prestancia Drive in Mokena, Illinois, United States. This stunning natural oasis offers visitors a chance to explore lush greenery, scenic trails, and a variety of wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, Hickory Creek Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.

Wildwood Nature Center, located at 531 Forestview Avenue in Park Ridge, Illinois, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages. This park, tourist attraction, and zoo offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and the environment. During open hours, visitors can meet and learn about the animals at the Nature Center, as well as explore the interactive Nature Nook filled with educational resources and activities. Outside, guests can hike the trails that wind through the woodland, prairie, and pond areas, spotting local wildlife and native flora along the way.

The Ruth Edwards Nature Center in Lowell Park, located at 2114 Lowell Park Road in Dixon, Illinois, is a beautiful and educational destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park and tourist attraction offers a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including guided nature walks, bird watching, and environmental education workshops. The center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of the area, and provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, the Ruth Edwards Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with nature in the heart of the United States.

Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5757 Blackhawk Road in Rockford, Illinois, United States. This scenic preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. With its lush forests, winding river, and diverse wildlife, Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

River Trail Nature Center is a hidden gem nestled in Northbrook, Illinois, United States. This park and tourist attraction is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located at 3120 Milwaukee Avenue, the center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. With its lush greenery, tranquil river, and diverse wildlife, River Trail Nature Center is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in the great outdoors, this institution has something for everyone. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at River Trail Nature Center.

Russell Woods Forest Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 11750 Illinois 72, Genoa, Illinois, United States. The Natural Resource Center at Russell Woods is currently closed for remodeling, but the park offers a variety of recreational and educational opportunities for visitors. The DeKalb County Forest Preserve District's mission is to preserve and protect the flora, fauna, and natural beauty of the land for the education and recreation of citizens. The forest preserves in the area serve as living museums, reflecting the past and offering serenity and beauty in the present.

Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 2901 Park Avenue in Westchester, Illinois, United States. This park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve boasts a diverse range of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species that call this beautiful prairie home. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics surrounded by the serene beauty of the preserve. Come experience the tranquility and natural wonder of Wolf Road Prairie Nature Preserve.

Sugar River Forest Preserve Campground is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of Durand, Illinois, United States. Located at 10127 Forest Preserve Road, this campground offers a serene and natural setting for visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you are looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or rent a cozy cabin, Sugar River Forest Preserve Campground has accommodations to suit every camper's needs. With access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic picnic areas, this campground is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Sugar River Forest Preserve Campground for yourself.

quon Nature Preserve is a testament to this commitment. Located at 11304 North Prairie Road in Lewistown, Illinois, this 6,000-acre park is one of the largest floodplain restoration projects in the Midwest. The preserve offers a diverse range of recreational activities, from birdwatching and paddling to hunting and fishing. Emiquon is a haven for migratory birds, with tens of thousands stopping over during their migration routes each spring and fall. The preserve is home to a variety of wetland plants and wildlife, including bald eagles, white pelicans, and otters. Visitors can explore the park through hiking trails, observation decks, and boardwalks. Lake access permits are required for fishing and boating, and can be obtained at the nearby Dickson Mounds Museum. Emiquon Nature Preserve is a place of rich ecological diversity and historical significance, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the importance of wetland conservation.

Big Rock Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 46W072 Jericho Road in Big Rock, Illinois. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With lush forests, winding trails, and picturesque picnic areas, Big Rock Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in the tranquility of nature, this preserve has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Big Rock Forest Preserve and discover the wonders of the Illinois wilderness.

Lake Renwick Preserve is a beautiful park located in Plainfield, Illinois, United States. Covering 839 acres, this preserve is part of the Lily Cache Creek preservation system, which conserves approximately 1,000 acres of natural beauty. The park includes Copley Nature Park, Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, and Turtle Lake Access, each offering unique opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. Visitors to Lake Renwick Preserve can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in designated areas. The 200-acre lake and wetland habitat provide a home for a variety of bird species, including the great blue heron and great egret. Structures have been built on islands within the lake to provide nesting opportunities for these birds, creating a unique and vibrant ecosystem.

Riverview Farmstead Preserve is a charming park and tourist attraction located on Book Road in Naperville, Illinois, United States. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage, with beautifully preserved farm buildings and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore the grounds, take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the city, Riverview Farmstead Preserve is a must-visit destination in Naperville.

Lake Chaminwood Preserve is a beautiful 120-acre park located in Minooka, Illinois. It is part of the DuPage River preservation system, conserving over 1,500 acres of natural habitat. The preserve features two lakes, a portion of the DuPage River, and wetland habitat, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking at the preserve. There is a picnic shelter available for small groups to use on a first-come, first-served basis. The preserve also offers interactive maps for visitors to plan their adventures and explore the area.

Illiniwek Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 836 State Avenue in Hampton, Illinois, United States. This peaceful and scenic preserve offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. With hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Mississippi River, Illiniwek Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and recreation. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll or have a fun-filled family picnic, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit Illiniwek Forest Preserve and experience the beauty of the great outdoors in Illinois.

Lower Rock Run Preserve - McClintock Road Access is a 372-acre park located at 22827 West McClintock Road in Channahon, Illinois. This preserve offers a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. Visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and plant species that call this preserve home, such as the northern water snake, eastern kingbird, leather flower, white water lily, and prairie phlox. The preserve has two access areas: I&M Canal Access and McClintock Road Access. I&M Canal Access provides access to the 11.24-mile Rock Run Greenway Trail and the 61.5-mile I&M Canal State Trail. McClintock Road Access features 0.63 miles of natural surface trail and a 7.5-acre off-leash dog park.

Binnie Forest Preserve is a picturesque park located in Illinois, United States. This beautiful tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush greenery, winding trails, and serene picnic spots. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or an adventurous hike, Binnie Forest Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tranquil oasis and experience the wonders of the great outdoors.

Lake Renwick Preserve - Turtle Lake Access is a park and tourist attraction located at 23113 Lockport Street, Plainfield, Illinois, United States. The preserve is part of the Lily Cache Creek preservation system, conserving approximately 1,000 acres of natural resources. With three access points in Plainfield, including Copley Nature Park, Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, and Turtle Lake Access, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The preserve is home to a 200-acre lake with wetland habitat, attracting a diverse range of bird species including great blue herons and bald eagles. The site is managed with monitoring activities and habitat enhancement to protect and enhance its natural resources. Access to Heron Rookery Nature Preserve is limited during the breeding season to protect nesting activities of migratory birds. Visitors can also explore the interactive map to plan their adventure on the preserve. Don't forget to check out the Lake Renwick Facebook page for news updates, photos, videos, and information about upcoming programs at this beautiful preserve.

Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve, located on Division Street in Lockport, Illinois, is a 320-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system. The preserve protects a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of the Des Plaines River. Visitors can explore 0.43 miles of natural surface trails for hiking and running, while enjoying the diverse wildlife and plant species that call the preserve home. The site is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and monitoring activities to protect and enhance its natural resources. Due to the sensitivity of the site's natural resources, dogs are not allowed in the preserve. Visitors can stay updated on news and upcoming programs at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve by following their Facebook page. Additionally, donations to the Nature Foundation of Will County and the Friends of the Forest Preserve Foundation help support the Forest Preserve District's education, conservation, and recreation programs.

Oak Forest Heritage Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Oak Forest, Illinois, United States. This serene preserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, tranquil walking paths, and scenic views. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the area through interpretive signs and historical landmarks scattered throughout the park. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Oak Forest Heritage Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Plum Valley Preserve, located in Crete, Illinois, is a 491-acre park that is part of the Plum Creek preservation system. This preserve protects forest and wetland habitats, as well as a portion of Plum Creek. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant and wildlife species, including reptiles, birds, and unique plant species like lobed violet and fire pink. The preserve features a 1-mile crushed limestone segment of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, perfect for hiking and exploring. Additionally, Plum Valley Preserve has a 9-acre off-leash dog park with three enclosures, one of which is exclusively for small dogs. The Burville Road access area offers a picnic shelter for rental, ideal for gatherings of up to 60 people. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs at the preserve by following their Facebook page. Make a donation to support the Nature Foundation of Will County and help enhance the education, conservation, and recreation programs at Plum Valley Preserve.

Sugar River Forest Preserve is a beautiful park located at 10127 Forest Preserve Road in Durand, Illinois, United States. This serene and scenic destination offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With lush forests, meandering trails, and the tranquil Sugar River running through the preserve, it is the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors, Sugar River Forest Preserve is the ideal place to connect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.

Aurora West Forest Preserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 40W032 Hankes Road in Aurora, Illinois, United States. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and explore the lush forests and scenic trails that wind through the preserve. With opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and more, Aurora West Forest Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and experience the peaceful serenity of this natural oasis in the heart of Illinois.

Preservation Park is a charming and historic park located at 710 Taylor Street in Joliet, Illinois. This beautiful park is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also serves as a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can stroll through the park's lush greenery, admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, and learn about the rich history of the area. Preservation Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.