St. James Farm Forest Preserve, Prairie State Travel Guide

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Explore the natural beauty and historical charm of St. James Farm Forest Preserve, a peaceful retreat in the heart of DuPage County.

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St. James Farm Forest Preserve

St. James Farm Forest Preserve in Warrenville, Illinois, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Once a private retreat for the McCormick family, this 595-acre preserve features restored prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and historic farm structures, providing a peaceful escape and a glimpse into DuPage County's past.

A brief summary to St. James Farm Forest Preserve

2S541 Winfield Rd, Warrenville, Illinois, 60555, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St. James Farm Forest Preserve.

Bring your dog! Dogs are allowed in the surrounding forest preserve but must be on leashes under 10 feet long.
Check out the indoor riding arena. Ages 12 and up are welcome, and those under 18 must be with an adult. It costs $10 per rider-horse combo.
Groups can reserve the preserve's 150-person shelter by calling Visitor Services at 630-933-7248 at least three business days before their visit.

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Explore St. James Farm Forest Preserve on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near St. James Farm Forest Preserve, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

St. James Farm Forest Preserve has two entrances. The main entrance is on Winfield Road, 0.25 miles north of Butterfield Road. The equestrian and special use entrance is on Hoy Avenue, 0.10 miles west of Madison Street. Parking is available at both entrances. Limited seasonal parking is available from May 1 – Dec 1.
Walking

The Illinois Prairie Path runs through St. James Farm Forest Preserve, with access from Hoy Avenue. From the path, follow the signs to enter the preserve and access the trails and historic areas.

Discover more about St. James Farm Forest Preserve

St. James Farm Forest Preserve, located in Warrenville, Illinois, is a 595-acre natural area with a rich history. The property was once the private retreat of the McCormick family, who acquired the initial 203 acres in 1920. Chauncey McCormick was the great-nephew of Cyrus McCormick, the inventor of the mechanical reaper and co-founder of the McCormick Reaper Works, which later became International Harvester Corporation.Under the McCormick family's ownership, St. James Farm became a thriving farm and a premier breeder of Guernsey cattle. The farm hosted international eventing and dressage competitions and an annual steeplechase race, drawing thousands of spectators. In 2000, Brooks McCormick sold the property to the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, which officially took possession in 2007.Today, St. James Farm Forest Preserve features a diverse landscape of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, with over 300 native plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the preserve's trails, which are suitable for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The preserve also offers catch-and-release fishing in the front pond, which is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish.In addition to its natural features, St. James Farm Forest Preserve is home to several historic buildings and artwork. These structures offer a glimpse into the area's agricultural past and the McCormick family's legacy. Visitors can also learn about the preserve's history through interpretive signs along the trails.