On the cover: Two young wood ducks ( Aix sponsa) are ready to launch. One day after hatching, these daredevils will leap from their treetop home to join their mother in a river or pond below. Read more on pages 6–7.
A MESSAGE from
JESSICA VEALITZEK
PRESIDENT
LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES
JVEALITZEK@LAKECOUNTYIL.GOV
My first memory of feeling awe at the natural world is stepping out of my parents’ station wagon and smelling the white pines that rose like giants above my four-year-old head. One glorious week during every summer of my childhood was spent among those pines, exploring the Northwoods and the clear waters of Lake George in Minnesota.
MORE THAN 31,200 ACRES ARE PROTECTED BY THE LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES.
Decades later, I fulfilled my lifelong dream when my family moved to a patch of land in Lake County. Surrounded by forest preserves and open spaces, I still feel that awe every day.
When I was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 2018, I knew our forest preserves were beautiful, diverse, safe, clean and well-maintained. Since then, I’ve come to appreciate that the Lake County Forest Preserves is a world-class institution comprised of dedicated staff who are experts in their fields. I look forward to working with them and to serving all Lake County residents in my new role as president of the Forest Preserves.
As we settle into 2025, our priority is to deliver on the promises made in our case to voters for capital dollars last November. We will work on expanding your forest preserves because protecting land doesn’t just make environmental sense, it makes economic sense.
We will restore thousands of acres because diverse native habitats reduce flooding and sequester carbon, clean the air and water and make our communities more resilient to climate change. We will open new preserves, renovate outdated infrastructure and complete trail connections because all residents deserve equitable access to the forest preserves.
For so many reasons, this lovely, old world is worth caring for. There is much good work ahead of us. 7 5 3 14
B OARD of COMMISSIONERS
PRESIDENT
Jessica Vealitzek, Hawthorn Woods
VICE PRESIDENT
Gina Roberts, Beach Park
TREASURER
Jennifer Clark, Libertyville
ASSISTANT TREASURER
Michael Danforth, Fox River Grove
Marah Altenberg, Buffalo Grove
Esiah Campos, Round Lake Beach
Carissa Casbon, Lake Villa
Mary Ross Cunningham, Waukegan
Paul Frank, Highland Park
Sandy Hart, Lake Bluff
Diane Hewitt, Zion
J. Kevin Hunter, Ingleside
Sara Knizhnik, Vernon Hills
Angelo D. Kyle, Waukegan
Ann B. Maine, Lincolnshire
Paras Parekh, Highland Park
Linda Pedersen, Antioch
Adam Schlick, Wauconda
John Wasik, Grayslake
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ty Kovach
HORIZONS
VOLUME 34, ISSUE 1 Spring 2025
EDITOR AND DESIGNER
Jeanna Martinucci Cristino
Horizons@LCFPD.org
CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS
Jen Berlinghof, Kim Mikus, Brett Peto, Rebekah Snyder, Erika Stergos
DESIGN CONTRIBUTORS
Eddie Fieg, Robin Hill
PHOTOGRAPHY AND ILLUSTRATION
Ed Erkes (cover), Vic Berardi, Bob Callebert, R. Scott McNeill, John D. Kavc, Andy Raupp, Alex Ross, Samantha Gallagher, Liz Rose Fisher, Phil Hauck, Tim Elliott, Kendall Donahue, Dahai Zang, John Weinstein, Larry Reis, Brett Peto, Kyle Hauder, Anna Larsen, Kristen Seefurth, Jeanna Martinucci
Horizons is the quarterly publication of the Lake County Forest Preserve District. Subscriptions are free. Subscribers may also receive mailings from the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Photos and videos are periodically taken of people participating in Forest Preserve District programs and activities. All persons registering for Forest Preserve District programs/activities or using Forest Preserve District property thereby agree that any photo or video taken by the Forest Preserve District may be used by the District for promotional purposes including its website or agency social media, promotional videos, brochures, fliers and other publications without additional, prior notice or permission and without compensation to the participant.
INDEPENDENCE GROVE (LIBERTYVILLE)
every acre is ESSENTIAL
Since 1958, the Lake County Forest Preserves has stewarded public funds to protect, manage and restore more than 31,200 acres across 65 sites to provide a healthy, resilient home for 28,850 native plant, animal and insect species as well as miles of trails and countless experiences for all to enjoy.
The Forest Preserves is an essential part of our community. Every acre of restored forest preserve land provides cleaner air, improved water quality, enhanced recreational and health benefits, habitat for pollinators, increased carbon storage and greater flood reduction.
But our restored lands face ongoing threats from invasive species, exotic pests and unpredictable weather. Today’s changing climate requires forward-thinking solutions and innovative, high-quality stewardship of the forest preserves to ensure they remain resilient in an uncertain future.
Even if we don’t set foot in one, the forest preserves are always working for us.”
Jessica Vealitzek President, Lake County Forest Preserves
every acre must be RESILIENT
Preserving and protecting our natural lands requires careful stewardship and investment. On average, the cost of every acre is:
$40,000 to preserve it
$15,000 to restore it $75 every year to keep it healthy
Restoring and maintaining the forest preserves requires a close partnership between public support and private philanthropy.
The Forest Preserves leverages public tax dollars to fund the preservation of land, restoration of native habitats and construction of parking lots, trails and overlooks for public access and enjoyment.
The Preservation Foundation helps donors— like you—invest in the mission and work of the Forest Preserves, supporting everything from major restoration projects to public programs.
every acre NEEDS YOU
The Community Campaign for Lake County Forest Preserves will create a $20 million endowment to protect the forest preserves you love, ensuring every acre of habitat we restore remains ecologically healthy. Forever.
Endowments are a powerful tool, as they deliver a dependable, perpetual source of funding. The endowment must reach $20 million to generate the $800,000 needed every year to provide ongoing care of restored lands. Your support is vital in helping us reach our goal!
By contributing to the endowment, you are investing in natural lands that will enrich the lives of everyone in Lake County for generations.
Your gift makes a significant difference today and in the future.
The endowment will permanently fund innovative, climate-informed land management of the forest preserves, enabling activities such as:
Re-treating invasive species, including buckthorn, honeysuckle and teasel.
Re-planting native seeds, trees and shrubs that can adapt to a changing climate.
Conducting prescribed burns to keep land healthy.
Monitoring plants, animals and insects to ensure our actions are effective.
We all have a role in stewarding the land, and our gifts today will live on for future generations.”
Betsy Hough President, Preservation Foundation
We invite you to join the Community Campaign to keep every acre STRONG:
GIVE ONLINE: LCFPD.org/endowment or scan the QR code.
GIVE BY PHONE: 847-968-3110
MAIL A GIFT TO: Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048 or use the envelope between pages 8–9.
Gifts of appreciated stocks or securities are easy to make and provide great tax benefits.
Maximize your support and minimize taxes through IRA distributions, retirement plan assets or life insurance.
DaredevilDucklings
The Wonder of Wood Ducks
One day after birth, a baby wood duck ( Aix sponsa) is ready to take a remarkable leap of faith. The fluffy chick climbs to the narrow opening of its nest and peeks over the edge. Its mother paddles in a sluggish river below.
She selected the nesting site earlier in spring: a cozy cavity 45 feet above the ground inside a sturdy bur oak tree.
It’s been a safe home for her to incubate and hatch 11 offspring the past three months. A new season of their lives starts today.
Above, the newborn duckling jumps out of the tree. This isn’t flight practice, but the bird opens its tiny wings to soften the fall. It weighs less than a slice of bread.
The water greets it with a splash, dunking the nestling, then springing it back up. The mother calls her baby over but otherwise hangs back. More of her young take the leap, a couple minutes apart.
Those that hesitate tend to be nudged out of the nest by their siblings. Soon, a flock of chicks forms in the river.
They’ve made it unharmed and ready to search for food. The daredevil ducklings will stay with their parent for just 5–6 weeks.
Early Birds
Many birds, including wood ducks, use an adaptive strategy called precociality. Young are born with mobility, open eyes, large brains and basic abilities to defend themselves or flee from predators.
“They have fuzzy down and the urge and ability to leave home and find food,” said Education Site Specialist Jen Berlinghof.
Wood ducks take a year to reach sexual maturity. Males, or drakes, are vibrantly colored to attract females, or hens.
Drakes seem ready for a soirée. Their heads shimmer green, supported by a chestnut breast and yellow-brown sides.
Hens display a white teardrop around their eyes and a navy patch on the speculum, the part of the wing closest to the body.
Just 17 of more than 120 duck species worldwide perch in trees.
Wood ducks are the only perching ducks native to the U.S. and Canada. Strong claws on their webbed feet help them cling to branches and access their nests.
This is unusual for dabbling ducks. That name doesn’t mean they like to pick up new hobbies. It describes how they feed.
Dabblers eat at or below the water’s surface, and sometimes on land. They tip their heads underwater and raise their rear ends, as if performing a handstand. Seeds, fruits, plants and insects are on the menu.
Wood ducklings possess advanced skills at a young age, such as jumping out of a tree.
Home’s Where the Hen Is
Adult wood ducks search for mates in fall and pair up by midwinter for a one-year partnership.
In spring, they fly north together to breeding grounds in the northern U.S. and southern Canada.
Hens tend to return to where they hatched or nested the previous year. Drakes follow their chosen mate. So, a drake may migrate to Michigan one year, a Lake County forest preserve the next.
“The mated couples inspect old woodpecker holes, tree cavities and wood duck boxes for a nesting spot,” Berlinghof said.
“Typically, the male will perch nearby while the female tips her head into each potential home before selecting the best nest.”
The parents-to-be often choose openings 2–60 feet off the ground
within waterfront trees. The hen pads the nest with down she plucks from her breast, laying one egg a day and 6–16 eggs total.
But the nest may contain up to 40 eggs “due to a unique behavior called compound nesting,” or eggdumping, said Berlinghof.
“Female wood ducks will lay eggs in multiple nests nearby. The nest owner will incubate them with her brood and raise them as if they were her own.”
After about a month of incubation, the chicks hatch out of glossy, tan eggs within a few hours of each other if from the same mother.
The next morning, the ducklings will take the same leap from the trees their parents once did.
Upon reaching ground level, they don’t look back.
This illustration depicts a mated pair swimming, their reflections rippling beneath them.
The Hen
The Drake
Wood Duck Whereabouts
The Ducklings
Photos: (Top to bottom) Using sharp claws on her feet, a hen stands outside the entrance to her nest. • A drake shows off his vivid feathers, meant to impress females. • Fluffy siblings peek out of their home.
In addition to tree cavities, human-made nest boxes are popular with this species. Wood ducks begin arriving in Lake County each February, then nest from March–July. Look for them in preserves with trees and nesting boxes near waterbodies. Visit LCFPD.org/birdwatching for more tips.
Alex
Exhibition to Debut in Dunn Museum Expansion
The Dunn Museum, operated by the Lake County Forest Preserves, is expanding to include a new gallery for larger special exhibitions. The inaugural exhibit will feature the work of renowned comic book artist Alex Ross, whose art has captivated audiences worldwide.
The idea for the expansion ties back to Alex Ross’ first exhibition at the Libertyville museum, Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross, held about five years ago. Often called the “Norman Rockwell of comics,” Ross—who lives locally—was thrilled by the show’s success, which introduced a whole new audience to the Dunn Museum.
The Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains special exhibition will run in the expanded gallery space for about six months when it opens this summer. Visitors will experience more than 100 pieces, and three life-size murals putting Marvel and DC heroes and villains front and center. Access to the Alex Ross exhibition will require a separate admission fee. All proceeds will benefit the Every Acre Strong campaign led by the Preservation Foundation. Visit LCFPD.org/exhibits for opening details in late spring.
TOGETHER WE CAN KEEP EVERY ACRE STRONG
Greenbelt Forest Preserve (North Chicago) and Lyons Woods Forest Preserve (Waukegan) are islands of green in some of Lake County’s most densely populated regions. At nearly 1,000 combined acres, these preserves provide health benefits, offer recreational opportunities and reduce flooding.
As part of the Every Acre Strong campaign, an anonymous private foundation and Wintrust Financial Corporation, a financial services company founded in Lake County, have donated $1.5 million to endow the care of these two forest preserves.
Residents in northeastern Lake County bear the heaviest burden of environmental and health inequities in our area. The opportunity to invest in these green spaces aligns with Wintrust’s commitment to build thriving communities and protect the environment. “Lake County has more biodiversity than any other county in Illinois,” said Steve Madden, chief executive officer of Libertyville Bank & Trust and north region market head, Wintrust Financial Corporation. “We all have a role to play in protecting it for plants, animals and people.”
These two lead gifts provide about 75% of the funds needed to fully endow Greenbelt and Lyons Woods, ensuring they remain ecologically healthy—forever. Learn more about Every Acre Strong on pages 1–5. Find out how your company can join Wintrust as a corporate donor to the campaign: LCFPD.org/partner
Ross: Heroes & Villains
Since 2007, the Preservation Foundation has inspired individuals, corporations and foundations to support Forest Preserves projects, programs and places they are passionate about. Gifts of all sizes make a meaningful impact and help ensure Lake County is filled with beautiful, natural spaces everyone can enjoy.
PLANT A SEED WITH SMART PLANNING
Did you know you can support the Forest Preserves in ways that benefit your finances too?
Gifts of non-cash assets can reduce your tax burden while helping preserve and protect Lake County’s natural lands. More and more supporters are choosing to make tax-savvy gifts—donating stock, making grants from their Donor Advised Fund or giving from their IRA. Get started: LCFPD.org/gift-planning
Your donations help extend and accelerate the work of the Forest Preserves!
Give the Gift of Time
Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Forest Preserves. Last year, 1,656 dedicated volunteers contributed 21,579 hours to help protect and maintain these vital green spaces. Some occasionally joined restoration workdays, while others served as devoted site stewards, managing projects each week.
Nippersink Forest Preserve (Round Lake) needs volunteers, and your help can make a difference. Join our volunteer site steward on the fourth Saturday of each month from 9 am–12 pm to help restore Nippersink’s diverse habitats.
There are many opportunities available, both indoors and outdoors, whether you’re volunteering individually or as a group. Your gift of time will make a lasting impact! Become a volunteer: LCFPD.org/volunteer
1,656
Save the Dates: Concerts in the Plaza
The Concerts in the Plaza summer music series returns to Independence Grove Forest Preserve (Libertyville) from 7–8:30 pm on Tuesdays, June 10–August 5.
Enjoy live music in a beautiful setting while supporting the Forest Preserves. Your $10 vehicle entrance fee directly benefits the Every Acre Strong campaign to provide ongoing care and maintenance of preserves such as Independence Grove. Check LCFPD.org/concerts for the lineup in late spring.
Interested in learning about tabling opportunities or sponsorship? Contact donate@LCFPD.org or 847-968-3438.
$722,382
Through quilts, clothing and sewing artifacts, this exhibition showcases stories stitched into every piece— from a quilt passed down through four generations to a winter wedding gown worn by a YugoslavianAmerican bride. Textiles, whether used for fashion, décor or comfort, reveal the rich and intricate narratives woven into the fabric of our shared past.
exhibit through May 4
Active-duty military personnel (with ID) and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, enjoy FREE admission at the Dunn Museum (Libertyville), May 17–September 1. Hours: LCFPD.org/planyourvisit
“Many people are used to stories about climate change that take a global perspective. That’s useful, but it can also be paralyzing,” said Peto. “For this season, I wanted to tell local stories about climate change. Each episode is anchored by real places that people can visit in Lake County.” Listen: LCFPD.org/podcast Blue
PRESERVE NEWS
Bumble bees are better at hide-and-seek than you might think. In spring, bumble bee queens establish colonies aboveground or belowground. Either way, they’re low-profile and easy for people to overlook. But these buzzing homes give off scents detectable by trained dogs.
Last summer, two Labrador retrievers from the Conservation Dogs Collective sniffed for bumble bee nests in several preserves. The dogs, named Betty White and Ernie, located one golden northern bumble bee (Bombus fervidus) colony. “This nest was discovered in a prairie, which complemented other data published on the species’ tendency to nest in open prairie and grassland areas,” said Wildlife Ecologist Kathryn McCabe.
Our staff discovered another four nests last year. They recorded how many bees came and went at two of them. Little is known about how bumble bee queens select nest sites. “Are nests located in certain habitats more than others? How does nest proximity to flowers vary throughout the growing season as different plants bloom?” McCabe plans to “expand monitoring to other understudied areas of the bumble bee life cycle.” See Ernie and Betty in action: LCFPD.org/bumblebee
Lakewood Improvements in Progress
Lakewood Forest Preserve (Wauconda) is undergoing a transformation as the initial construction phase of a comprehensive master plan continues.
Many new features are in place, but not all grasses, trees, shrubs and flowers have yet established. We expect to open the following features in late spring:
• A 1.6-mile paved loop trail with access to a fishing pier at Taylor Lake.
• A grassy area with picnic spots and lake overlooks.
• The relocated and reconstructed main parking lot.
• A centrally located picnic shelter with accessible parking, walkways, amenities and restrooms. A nature play area is under construction and is planned to open this fall. The area will provide structured play elements composed of both natural and human-made materials. Read more: LCFPD.org/lakewood-update
NEW PODCAST SEASON TELLS LOCAL CLIMATE CHANGE STORIES
Words of the Woods, our award-winning podcast about nature and history, debuted its third season this past winter. It’s available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Over nine episodes, host Brett Peto, environmental communications specialist at the Forest Preserves, explores how climate change affects your preserves. How wildlife and plants may be adapting. And what we’re doing to make Lake County more climate-resilient.
FEATURED EVENTS
For a complete list of all events, descriptions, pricing and tickets: Visit LCFPD.org/calendar, call 847-968-3321 or scan the QR code shown on the left. In-person and virtual nature and history programs, school field trips and digital resources are available.
DUNN MUSEUM PROGRAMS
EDUCATOR PICKS
Our educators are excited to share just a few of the upcoming programs for the spring season. Discover a full list of events and find registration details at LCFPD.org/calendar
March 15 Birdwatching Hot Spots: Independence Grove
April 12, May 3 Caminata en Español
April 17 The Spring Frogs of Ryerson Woods
May 10 Spring Bird Walk: Rollins Savanna
May 15 Celebrating Scouts
The Dunn Museum is offering a variety of programs related to the special exhibition, Threads of Time: Quilts and Textiles. View all Museum programs and registration details at LCFPD.org/dunn
March 13 The Life Cycle of Clothing
March 16 Make a Fabric Upcycled Wreath: Explore Threads of Time
March 27 Drop-in at the Dunn: Create a Paper Quilt Square
April 3 Homeschool Program: Threads of Time
April 10 Guided Tour—Threads of Time: Quilts and Textiles
FREE FOR EARTH WEEK
No reservation? No problem! Embrace your spontaneous side while discovering the beauty of nature and the richness of local history. Find all programs and details at LCFPD.org/calendar
March 25, 26 Drop-in at the Dunn
April 3, May 1 Connecting Kids with Nature
April 12 Spring Bird Walk: McDonald Woods
April 27 Ryerson Net-Zero Energy Education Center Open House
May 24 Family Drop-in: Totally Turtles
Celebrate Earth Week with FREE programs that honor the planet we share. Treat yourself to learning, fun and discovery! Explore programs and registration details at LCFPD.org/earthweek.
April 21 Hike Through History: Raven Glen
April 22 Birds and Blooms Walk
April 22 Early Eve Ponding Program
April 23 Playdate with Nature
April 25 Evening Woodcock Walk
April 26 City Nature Challenge: Ryerson Bioblitz Event
DROP-IN PROGRAMS
Have a question about Lake County history or nature? Our educators have the answer. Email: AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org
SPRING BREAK AT THE DUNN MUSEUM
March 24–28 • 10 am–4:30 pm • Thursday open until 8 pm
Enhance your spring break by contributing to your community! Visit the Dunn Museum (Libertyville) from March 24–28 and receive FREE admission by donating at least one non-perishable food item or toiletry per visitor.
Contributions will benefit the Libertyville Township Food Pantry. Visit LCFPD.org/springbreak to view a list of items to donate.
Large-flowered trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)
Saturday, May 17 • 9 am–3 pm Sunday, May 18 • 10 am–2 pm
Independence Grove Forest Preserve 16400 W. Buckley Road, Libertyville
Choose from a variety of plant species, including vibrant flowers, hardy forbs and native grasses. Learn about eco-friendly practices that benefit your home, wallet and community. Experts will be onsite to answer questions and offer guidance. This year, we increased the availability of each plant species, giving more people the chance to bring them home!
Prices vary, and inventory is limited, so come early. Don’t forget to bring boxes to transport plants.
Online sales are open now! LCFPD.org/plant-sale
Illustrations clockwise from top-right: Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), blue flag iris (Iris virginica shrevei), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Explorers
Conservation Explorers (ConEx)
Ages: 14–16
History
A Lake County Artist Adventure
Ages: 9–12
July 7–11 Dunn Museum → 9:15 am–12:15 pm
July 14–18 ........................ Independence Grove
July 21–24 Independence Grove → 9 am–3 pm
Plus! Overnight Camp-Out
July 25–26 Van Patten Woods → 3 pm–10 am
This dynamic, two-week outdoor program culminates with an overnight camp-out in a preserve. High schoolers explore and study local ecosystems through data collection and learn about career options in science. ConEx is based outdoors and includes hiking, paddlesports and stewardship projects.
$400 R / $560 NR
Create your own works of art as you learn about Lake County artists. We will use a variety of media to foster creativity while examining art in the Dunn Museum’s collection. $159 R / $223 NR
From Fossils to Ferns
Ages: 9–11
July 21–25 .. Ryerson Conservation Area & Wright Woods → 9 am–12 pm
Foster your child’s enthusiasm for the natural and human history of Lake County. From dinos to the modern day, we’ll explore how the habitats and people of Lake County have changed over time. $159 R / $223 NR
Experienced educators lead all Summer Adventures programs. Prices are listed as resident (R) and nonresident (NR). Contact us at AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org or 847-367-6640 for information about:
• Need-based partial scholarships • Waitlists for full programs
Nature
Animal Investigators
Ages: 6–7
July 7–11
Independence Grove
July 21–25 Ryerson Conservation Area & Wright Woods
August 4–8 ...................... Independence Grove → 9 am–12 pm
Trek through forests, prairies and wetlands to learn about the animal species that call Lake County home. Discover the adaptations of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects through hands-on investigations and live animal encounters. $159 R / $223 NR
Ecosystem Explorers
Ages: 10–12
July 28–30 ....................... Independence Grove → 9 am–3 pm
Seek adventure. Explore a new local ecosystem each day and learn what habitats make Lake County special. Get up close to the plants and animals inhabiting different ecosystems and discover what steps the Forest Preserves takes to conserve wild spaces. $229 R / $321 NR
Fishing 1
Ages: 9–11
July 7–11 .........................
Independence Grove
July 14–18 ........................ Independence Grove
August 4–8
Independence Grove → 8:30–11:30 am
Explore the watery world fish inhabit and learn the basic skills, techniques and bait to catch them. Each day includes 1.5 hours of fishing. Equipment provided.
$189 R / $265 NR
Fishing 2
Ages: 12–14
July 21–25 .......................
July 28–August 1
August 11–15
Paddle in Nature
Ages: 12–14
August 4–6
Independence Grove → 9 am–3 pm
Develop paddling skills and explore nature using solo kayaks, tandem canoes and stand-up paddleboards. Learn about the native aquatic plants and animals of local waterways. Beginner level. $229 R / $321 NR
Spiders, Slugs and Really Cool Bugs
Ages: 8–9
July 7–11
Independence Grove
Independence Grove
Independence Grove → 8:30–11:30 am
Want to improve your fishing skills? Learn about fish behavior, bait selection, lures and techniques. Each day includes 1.5 hours of fishing. One day of guided boat fishing also included. Equipment provided.
$199 R / $279 NR
Independence Grove
July 21–25 Ryerson Conservation Area & Wright Woods
August 4–8 ...................... Independence Grove → 9 am–12 pm
Campers will learn what makes Lake County’s crawling, flying and slimy invertebrates special. Animals without backbones are the largest group of animals on Earth. Each day highlights different ecosystems and the invertebrates that inhabit them. $159 R / $223 NR
Young Nature Explorers
Ages: 4–5 with an adult
July 8–10 ........................ Independence Grove
July 22–24 .. Ryerson Conservation Area & Wright Woods
August 5–7 Independence Grove → 9:30–11:30 am
Allow your little one time to explore the wonders of nature. Seek adventure in a new habitat each day to discover what lives and grows there. Natural items, creativity and imagination will spark your child’s love for play and learning in nature.
$64 R / $89 NR. Adults free. Register adult and child.
For seasonal hours, menus and fees, visit our website.
North Bay Pavilion
For rental information, visit LCFPD.org/NorthBay
Parking Fee (spring–fall) Lake County residents FREE.
Vehicle window stickers allow entry without having to verify Lake County residency. Fee is $5, available at the Visitors Center.
Nonresidents
$6 per car Monday–Thursday
$12 per car Friday–Sunday and holidays
LCFPD.org
911 emergency
847-549-5200 nonemergency public safety issues
THUNDERHAWK GOLF
CLUB
A Robert Trent Jones Jr. championship golf course.
39700 N. Lewis Ave. Beach Park, IL 60099
847-968-4295 Tee Times
847-489-1931 Golf Outings ThunderHawkGolfClub.org
847-968-3450 Banquets, Meetings ThunderHawkEvents@LCFPD.org Office hours by appointment only.
BRAE LOCH GOLF CLUB
33600 N. U.S. Hwy. 45 Grayslake, IL 60030
847-968-3444 Tee Times
847-489-1931 Golf Outings BraeLochGolfClub.org
COUNTRYSIDE GOLF CLUB
Prairie and Traditional Courses
20800 W. Hawley St. Mundelein, IL 60060
847-968-3466 Tee Times, Golf Outings CountrysideGolfClub.org
More than 31,200 acres make up your Lake County Forest Preserves.
Most preserves are open 6:30 am–sunset, daily. If a preserve gate is open before 6:30 am, the preserve is considered open for use.
MAP CURRENT AS OF February 11, 2025
FOREST PRESERVE
STATE LAND
ENTRANCE/ PARKING
METRA STATION
CASEY TRAIL
CHAIN O’LAKES BIKE PATH
Planned Section
DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL (DPRT)
DPRT TO LYONS WOODS
Planned Section
FORT HILL TRAIL
Planned Section
MIDDLEFORK GREENWAY
Planned Section
MILLENNIUM TRAIL
Planned Section
OTHER REGIONAL TRAILS
Planned Section
GENERAL OFFICES & DUNN MUSEUM
OPERATIONS & PUBLIC SAFETY
BEER
GARDEN
CANOE LAUNCH
COMMUNITY GARDEN
EDUCATION CENTER
OFF-LEASH DOG AREA
TRAIL MAP
Use our interactive trail map to navigate your next adventure. To view the map, open the camera app on your phone and scan the QR code below.
COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES GENERAL OFFICES
1899 WEST WINCHESTER ROAD
LIBERTYVILLE ILLINOIS 60048
HORIZONS
SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES
847–968–3335 Horizons @LCFPD.org
THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED USING 100% RECYCLED PAPER, ALLOWING US TO SAVE 91 MATURE TREES, 6,868 GALS WATER, 13,058 LBS GREENHOUSE GASES
Fox River Marina & Boat Launch
Start your water adventure from our four-lane public launch, ideal for boats, paddlecraft and jet skis. Ramp is open 6:30 am–10 pm, daily. Launch fees apply. Boat slips are also available for rent in 20, 25 and 30 feet. Details: FoxRiverMarina.org or 847-381-0669
FLICKR PICK
Photographer John D. Kavc shared this photo of a foggy early-spring sunrise at Fox River Marina and Forest Preserve (Port Barrington).
A NEW SEASON OF SIPS
The Beer Garden at Independence Grove (Libertyville) opens for the season on May 2. Plan your visit: LCFPD.org/beer
MAY 2–26
Friday–Sunday: 1–9 pm
May 5: 5–9 pm for Cinco de Mayo May 26: 1–9 pm for Memorial Day
STARTING MAY 27
Tuesday–Thursday: 5–9 pm Friday–Sunday and holidays: 1–9 pm
BREWS & VIEWS • MAY 30, 4–8 PM
Enjoy local craft beer samples, food and live music! Punch cards for tastings are limited, but visitors can enjoy the Beer Garden and live music without one. Details and pricing: LCFPD.org/brews
Connect with us @LCFPD on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Flickr, YouTube and X. Listen to our awardwinning Words of the Woods podcast on Spotify. Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter: LCFPD.org/connect
