Discover Tranquility at Lake Carina Forest Preserve
Explore the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Lake Carina Forest Preserve, a tranquil escape in Gurnee, Illinois, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Carina Forest Preserve is a serene escape in Gurnee, Illinois, offering stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful environment perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Lake Carina Forest Preserve
- 33919 IL-21, Gurnee, Illinois, 60031, US
- +1847-367-6640
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best chance to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the preserve is home to many local bird species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, but remember to clean up after yourself to preserve the area's natural beauty.
- Check the preserve's website for any upcoming events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as some trails can be uneven and are better suited for hiking.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From downtown Waukegan, head to the Waukegan Metra Station. Take the Union Pacific North Line train towards Chicago Union Station. Disembark at the Gurnee Mills train station. From the station, walk north along the Gurnee Mills Boulevard. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with IL-21. Cross IL-21 and proceed to follow the path leading east towards Lake Carina Forest Preserve. The preserve is located on the east side of IL-21.
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Bicycle
Starting from downtown Waukegan, bike east on Washington Street until you reach the intersection with Green Bay Road. Turn right (south) on Green Bay Road and continue until you reach the intersection with Gurnee Mills Boulevard. Turn left (east) onto Gurnee Mills Boulevard and continue straight until you reach IL-21. Cross IL-21 carefully, and follow the path leading east towards Lake Carina Forest Preserve, which is situated on the east side of IL-21.
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Walking
From the Waukegan Public Library, head south on Sheridan Road. After about 0.5 miles, take a left onto Gurnee Mills Boulevard. Walk east on Gurnee Mills Boulevard until you reach IL-21. Carefully cross IL-21 at the designated crosswalk and proceed to follow the path that leads towards Lake Carina Forest Preserve, which is on the east side of IL-21.
Discover more about Lake Carina Forest Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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La Canoa
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Howard Johnson by Wyndham Waukegan Great Lakes
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Imperial Tower Apartments
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Shelby's
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Bertrand Bowling Lanes Inc
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Dotty's
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Quonset Pizza
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Belvidere Mall
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Six Flags Great America
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The People's Choice Family Fun Center
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Gurnee Mills
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