A number of our preserves allow for overnight tent camping. Only primitive camping is allowed, with no accommodations for recreational vehicles (RVs) or electrical output. The table below provides information regarding family and group campsite capacities and amenities.
In addition, youth group camps are permitted at the Environmental Learning Center, and Camporee events are permitted at Goodenow Grove.
Family and group camping permits may be obtained in person at the Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet, Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville, Plum Creek Nature Center in Beecher, and Monee Reservoir in Monee. Reservations for campsites may also be made over the phone up to three days prior to the reservation date. Effective April 1, 2010, drop-in camping is no longer allowed. Reservations must be made a minimum of three days prior to the reservation date.
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Site and Location
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No. of Sites
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Capacity
Per Site
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Special Amenities
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All sites have a fire ring, picnic table, latrine, and hand pump.
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Hammel Woods
Shorewood
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6
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6-8
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Wooded sites; 2 miles of trails (bike and hike); shared parking and water with dog park; access to DuPage River (fishing, canoeing). One site is ADA accessible.
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McKinley Woods
Channahon
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4
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6
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Semi-wooded sites; grills (in addition to fire pits); access to 60-mile I&M Canal Trail (bike and canoe); access to Illinois River (fishing). Two sites are ADA accessible.
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Goodenow Grove
Beecher
- Foxfire I South - Group
- Foxfire II North - Group
- Raccoon Hollow - Family
- Thumper Thicket - Family
- Pop Up Sites - Family
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12
12
4
3
3
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6
6
6
6
6
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Open group sites and semi-wooded family sites; lighted latrines at group sites; porta-potty at family sites; drinking fountains with jug fillers; Plum Creek Nature Center; 3 miles of trails; sledding hill; pond (no fishing).
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Forsythe Woods
Wilmington
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1
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6
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Open site; along Forked Creek (fishing); 1 mile of trail; one fire ring.
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Messenger Woods
Lockport
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4
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6
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Open site in the center of woods; adjacent to picnic areas; 2 miles of trails.
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Photograph Courtesy of Glenn P. Knoblock
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Camping
