TOP 30 Best Wetland reserve in Illinois

Carl and Myrna Nygren Wetland Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3714 West Rockton Road in Rockton, Illinois, United States. This beautiful preserve, owned and managed by the Natural Land Institute, features restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands along Raccoon Creek and the Rock and Pecatonica rivers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers like wild bergamot and sunflowers, as well as observe a variety of wildlife species, including migrating waterfowl and songbirds. The preserve is open to the public daily, with entrances at both 3190 W. Rockton Rd. for private events and 3714 W. Rockton Rd. for general admission. Visitors can explore the Dianne Nora Nature Trail, a 2.5 mile path around the wetland that offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, jogging, and cross-country skiing. The trail is free to access and open from sunrise to sunset, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in nature.

Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Palos Park, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Illinois landscape. With its lush greenery, tranquil waters, and diverse wildlife, Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the beauty of Bergman Slough Land & Water Reserve and experience the wonders of nature in this picturesque setting.

Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve is a serene park located at 5750 Best Road in Pecatonica, Illinois. This beautiful preserve is home to a diverse range of wetland habitats, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the winding trails that meander through the preserve, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserve offers a peaceful retreat for all who visit.

The Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a nature park located at 8885 Illinois 37 in Cypress, Illinois. This institution is dedicated to educating visitors about the unique wetland ecosystem of the Cache River region. The center offers interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can explore the diverse plant and animal life that call the wetlands home, and learn about the importance of conservation and preservation efforts. With its picturesque surroundings and informative displays, the Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge - Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 7071 Riverview Road in Thomson, Illinois, United States. This refuge has been a sanctuary for fish, wildlife, and people since 1924, stretching 261 river miles along the Mississippi River floodplain. With over 240,000 acres of protected land, the refuge is a popular destination for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational activities, attracting over 3.7 million visitors annually. The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center provides valuable information and resources for visitors, including pool maps outlining areas for hunting, fishing, and recreation. The center also offers opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, from the summer sounds of frogs to the fall migration of birds.

Gateway Wetlands is a serene and picturesque park located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, United States. This institution serves as a gateway to the natural beauty and biodiversity of wetlands, providing visitors with a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding pathways, and diverse wildlife, Gateway Wetlands offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Gateway Wetlands is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve is a stunning natural oasis located at 24621 North River Road in Wilmington, Illinois, United States. This park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, offering a unique blend of dolomite prairies, wetlands, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the tranquil surroundings, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the winding trails. The reserve is a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of Des Plaines Dolomite Prairies Land And Water Reserve.

The Village Reserve at Mill Creek offers comfortable living in one or two bedroom apartment homes located at 39W250 Herrington Boulevard in Geneva, Illinois. Residents have convenient access to shopping, the on-site Geneva elementary school, and community church. Each home features in-unit laundry rooms, central air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, ceramic tile floors, and individual balconies overlooking preserved wetlands and parks. Nestled in the award-winning Mill Creek community, residents can enjoy a full life at The Reserve of Mill Creek. Pricing starts at $1,815 for 1st and 2nd floor units and $1,925 for 3rd floor units. Shodeen, the family-owned company behind the development, specializes in residential and commercial real estate in the Fox Valley region of Chicago. Founded in 1961 by Kent Shodeen, the company has thrived alongside Kane County's vibrant communities.

Karl Bartel Grasslands Land & Water Reserve is a park located in Kinmundy, Illinois, United States. This 80-acre reserve is adjacent to other public and private grasslands in Marion County and is protected in perpetuity as an Illinois Land & Water Reserve. The Illinois Audubon Society purchased the land in 2002 and is currently restoring it to grasslands. Four small wetlands have been created on the reserve, attracting shorebirds and waterfowl. Visit Karl Bartel Grasslands Land & Water Reserve to enjoy the beauty of nature and observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Kildeer Wetlands is a beautiful park located at 5600-5898 Flossmoor Road in Tinley Park, Illinois, United States. This tranquil oasis is home to a variety of wildlife and offers visitors the opportunity to explore natural wetlands and observe native plants and animals in their natural habitat. The park features walking trails, bird watching areas, and opportunities for photography and nature appreciation. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a learning experience in nature, Kildeer Wetlands is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located in Momence, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wetlands ecosystem. With its diverse plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species, the preserve provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to observe and learn about the local environment. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, hiking, or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings, Momence Wetlands Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the natural world.

Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Tinley Park, Illinois, United States. This serene and tranquil sanctuary offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its lush meadows, winding waterways, and diverse wildlife, Bobolink Meadow is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, Bobolink Meadow Land and Water Reserve is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is a peaceful park located in Matteson, Illinois, United States. This beautiful reserve is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the area and providing a serene escape for visitors. With its lush greenery, winding creek, and diverse wildlife, Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a scenic location for a leisurely hike, this reserve has something for everyone. Come explore and experience the tranquility of Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve.

Stillman Nature Center is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of South Barrington, Illinois. Located at 33 West Penny Road, this park and tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the diverse ecosystems of the area. With winding trails, serene ponds, and educational exhibits, Stillman Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in the beauty of the outdoors, this institution provides a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

The Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 780 East Road in Hennepin, Illinois, United States. This beautiful refuge is a haven for waterfowl and other wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to observe and connect with nature in a serene and tranquil setting. With its lush wetlands, scenic hiking trails, and abundant birdwatching opportunities, the Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the beauty of Illinois' natural landscape.

McKinley Woods - Kerry Sheridan Grove is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 25055 South Walnut Lane in Channahon, Illinois. This 531-acre preserve is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system, offering diverse habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of the Des Plaines River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, birdwatching, fishing, and more at this stunning natural area. Frederick's Grove and Kerry Sheridan Grove are two access areas within McKinley Woods, each offering unique trails and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts. The preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature education.

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.

Volo Bog State Natural Area is a unique and breathtaking park located in Ingleside, Illinois. This tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore a pristine and ancient bog ecosystem, complete with floating sphagnum moss islands and rare plant species. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the boardwalks that wind through the bog, taking in the peaceful surroundings and learning about the area's geological and ecological significance. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours for those looking to delve deeper into the fascinating history of this natural wonder.

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.

Located in Joliet, Illinois, the Lower Rock Run Preserve - I&M Canal Access is a 372-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The preserve features diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run, providing a home for a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can explore the preserve through its interactive map, which includes access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the I&M Canal State Trail. The Rock Run Greenway Trail is a paved 11.24-mile trail ideal for hiking, biking, and running, while the I&M Canal State Trail offers 61.5 miles of crushed limestone for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is a stunning natural oasis located in Mettawa, Illinois. This picturesque park spans over 1,000 acres and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails that wind through dense woodlands, tranquil wetlands, and serene meadows. The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography. With its scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Heron County Park is a picturesque and serene tourist attraction located at 22296-A Henning Road in Danville, Illinois, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, with lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind, Heron County Park is the perfect destination. With its beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge, located in Lewistown, Illinois, is a popular tourist attraction and park offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy birding, wildlife watching, hunting, and fishing in this beautiful natural setting. The refuge is home to a diverse range of fish, wildlife, and plants, with habitats including wetlands, lakes, forests, bluffs, and prairies. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, you are sure to see a variety of wildlife species. Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge is committed to conserving and protecting the natural resources of the area for the benefit of future generations. Please note that some linked websites may not be fully accessible and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 5010 North Jugtown Road in Morris, Illinois, United States. This stunning natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse range of habitats, including prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in the scenic beauty of the Illinois countryside. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun outdoor adventure, Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 23202 West Renwick Road in Plainfield, Illinois, United States. The preserve is part of the Lily Cache Creek preservation system and covers approximately 839 acres of natural habitat. It includes a 200-acre lake with wetland habitat, providing a home to a variety of bird species such as great blue herons, great egrets, and cormorants. The preserve has three access points: Copley Nature Park, Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, and Turtle Lake Access. The Heron Rookery Nature Preserve features 1.45 miles of crushed limestone trail, perfect for hiking and running. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching with mounted scopes available for viewing.

Silver Creek Conservation Area is a beautiful park located at 1009 Rawson Bridge Road in Cary, Illinois, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of Silver Creek. The park is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. With its peaceful atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Silver Creek Conservation Area is the perfect destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Whalon Lake, located in Naperville, Illinois, is a beautiful 249-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The preserve features a diverse range of habitats, including prairie, wetland, an 80-acre lake, and a portion of the DuPage River. Visitors can explore the preserve on a 3.71-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail, ideal for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. One of the highlights of Whalon Lake is the fenced 11.9-acre off-leash dog park, perfect for furry friends to run and play. The preserve also offers shoreline fishing on the lake, which is stocked with a variety of fish species. Kayak rentals are available through The Forge at Whalon Lake, allowing visitors to explore the lake by water.

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.

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.

Theodore Marsh, located on Fox Meadow Drive in Crest Hill, Illinois, is a 292-acre park and tourist attraction with a variety of habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant species and is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking at the preserve, which also provides access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the Joliet Junction Trail. The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental and permits for geocaching. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs by following the Theodore Marsh Facebook page. Plan your adventure at this beautiful natural area using the interactive map provided on the website.