From archery to a variety of winter sports, visitors of all ages can enjoy their favorite activities at several DuPage County forest preserves. Activities include archery, hiking, biking, off leash dog areas, swimming, pickinicking, fishing, golfing, camping, boating, horseback riding, winter activities and more.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County was established in 1915 when voters cast ballots to protect against the removal of woodlands. For the first year of operation, $8,000 was appropriated to create, manage and maintain the new forest preserve. County supervisors who governed the District spent the next two years working out operating details for the fifth county forest preserve district in the country. In 1917, the first tax levy was made and the first preserve land was purchased: 79 acres in Oak Brook, called York Woods. Today, the Forest Preserve District owns and manages more than 24,000 acres and has an annual budget of more than $175 million. Each year, more than 3.1 million people visit the Forest Preserve District's 600+ acres of shimmering lakes, 60 miles of river and streams, and over 100 miles of trails that offer scenic views and many fun ways to enjoy your leisure time.
Categories
Museums:
Historical Villages & Farms, Nature Centers
Outdoor Kids Activities:
Biking, Camping, Hiking, Horse Back Riding, Ice Skating, Picnic Areas, Plants/Gardens, Playgrounds & Parks, Rivers and Lakes, Sledding
I took my son to a beginner's archery class provided by the Forest Preserve. There was no cost, they provided the equiptment, and the class was not over crowed. We loved it! I highly recommend both the archery class and the Forest Preserves itself. They are wonderful!
Our family of four utilizes the forest preserve offerings throughout the year -- fantastic finds! As for this past weekend, we went tubbing at Mount Hoy (800 foot hight mound) at Blackwell Preserve -- COLD but great fun! That think this venue should be highlighted on kidwinks. Cheers!
