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Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve: Nature's Retreat

Explore nature's beauty at Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve: hiking, biking, fishing, and more in a diverse landscape.

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Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve, Lake County's first forest preserve, offers a diverse landscape with woodlands, Sterling Lake, and the Des Plaines River. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and more in this scenic natural area.

A brief summary to Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve

Local tips

  • Bring your own boat or rent one nearby to enjoy Sterling Lake's calm waters.
  • Hike or bike the Des Plaines River Trail for scenic views and connections to other preserves.
  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends can be crowded.
  • Check the Lake County Forest Preserves website for trail conditions and closures.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The main entrance to Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve is located on Route 173, east of Route 41 in Wadsworth, IL. From I-94, exit onto Route 173 East. Follow Route 173 East to the preserve entrance. Parking is free. Limited parking for horse trailers is available at the Russell Road entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Pace bus route 571 has limited stops near the preserve. Check the Pace bus website for the most up-to-date schedule and route information. From the nearest stop, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the preserve entrance. A single-ride fare on Pace is $1.75. Exact change is required.

  • Biking

    The Des Plaines River Trail provides access to Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve. The northernmost access point to the trail is located at the Russell Road entrance to Van Patten Woods. Follow the trail to the preserve. Biking is permitted on all trails within the preserve.

Unlock the Best of Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve

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Discover more about Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve

Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve, established in 1961, was Lake County's first forest preserve. Named after David Van Patten, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves in 1960, this 485-acre preserve features a variety of natural habitats and recreational opportunities. The key natural feature is the Des Plaines River and its adjacent floodplain, which provides refuge for many native species and helps with flood control. On higher ground to the river's east, visitors can relax among native oak woodlands and planted pine groves. To the west, natural areas are being restored where a former gravel quarry had severely altered the land. The preserve boasts five miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The Des Plaines River Trail bisects the preserve, offering scenic views and connections to other preserves. Sterling Lake, an 86-acre lake, provides opportunities for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. A canoe launch on Russell Road provides access to the Des Plaines River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including picnic shelters, drinking water, toilets, and a playground. A model aircraft field is available for model aircraft enthusiasts. A youth group campground offers a rustic camping experience for organized groups. Van Patten Woods is a popular destination for birdwatching, with diverse habitats attracting a variety of bird species. The preserve's trails are open for various activities throughout the year, making it a great place to experience nature in any season.

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