Designing Access to Nature
Lake County Forest Preserve – Independence Grove, Libertyville
Jump for joy – it’s spring and it’s time to get out into nature! Now that the weather has warmed up here in the Midwest, we’re looking to do just that. Lake County, Illinois offers many opportunities to access nature via city parks, county forest preserves, and state parks. Residents of all ages, abilities, and interests can benefit from our local public lands.
Public lands preserve and enhance the natural typography and habitat and provide access to natural areas for everyone. If you are looking for active pursuits, look no further! Residents can hike, swim, picnic, fish, canoe, run, cycle and more at our local publicly-owned lands. Even mans’ best friend can frolic at the local off-leash dog parks.
Lake County Forest Preserves
One of our favorite places to get outdoors is at our local forest preserves. The Lake County Forest Preserves provides a wide array of opportunities for residents to access nature. Since 1958, The Forest Preserves has served as the principal guardian of Lake County’s open space and natural areas. Currently, about 6% of Lake County land is managed by the Forest Preserves. With all of this land available and open to the public, area residents have lots of opportunities to get out and explore.
Lake County Forest Preserve – Hastings Lake Shelter
Our office has been involved in a variety of Forest Preserves building projects that help people to reach and enjoy our beautiful community-owned lands. We have completed over 80 projects with the District including picnic shelters, shoreline terraces, bridges, marine storage, maintenance facilities, offices, and more.
Fox River Preserve
The most extensive project completed to date is the Fox River Preserve in North Barrington. The site offers a prairie-style welcome pavilion, marina, shelters, boat storage, and visitors’ center. Visitors enjoy access to natural rolling topography, oak savannas and wetlands, which support native species and offer habitat protection.
Lake County Forest Preserve – Fox River Grove
Nestled along the scenic Fox River, the preserve’s marina features all the activities you’d expect on the water, from canoeing and boating to fishing and more. You can trailer your boat to the boat launch or store it right on-site in one of the boat slips for the ultimate in convenience. Indoor boat storage is also available. Trails are open to hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers. Picnicking is another good option, with convenient parking and many free tables available on the grounds. For large groups and special events, rent one of the rustic picnic shelters.
Whatever activities you desire, the Lake County Forest Preserves has something to offer everyone. Take advantage of the warmer spring weather and plan to access nature this spring – visit our local publicly owned lands and prepare to have fun!
