Preservation

The 430-acre Laughton Preserve was acquired between 1931 and 2006.

The preserve is part of the Forked Creek preservation system, which conserves more than 2,400 acres of land.

Cultural resources protected at the preserve include a remnant of the historic Twelve Mile Grove, portions of the 1832 Ce-Na-Ge-Wine and Joseph Laughton Reservations, and the historic Wallingford Settlement. The preserve’s picnic shelter was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Natural Resources

Laughton Preserve protects forest habitat and a portion of Forked Creek.

Wildlife found at the preserve includes the rose-breasted grosbeak.

The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including papaw and blue ash.

Amenities and Activities

Picnicking

Laughton Preserve offers one picnic shelter for groups of less than 25 people. The shelter is not available for rental.

Fishing

The preserve offers access to shoreline fishing on quarry ponds within the preserve. Statewide and District regulations apply. Learn more about fishing in the forest preserves.

Geocaching

Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. Learn more about geocaching permits.

Photograph Courtesy of Glenn P. Knoblock