Theodore Marsh

Location

Theodore Marsh is located on Gaylord Road, north of Theodore Street, in Crest Hill.

Phone

815-727-8700

Hours

Sunrise-Sunset

On social media

Like the Theodore Marsh Facebook page to get news updates, photos, videos and information about upcoming programs at this preserve.

Preserve history

The 292-acre Theodore Marsh was acquired between 1994 and 2009.

The preserve is part of the Rock Run preservation system, which conserves more than 1,450 acres.

A 140-acre portion of the site was registered as an Illinois Land and Water Reserve in 2003. This registration provides permanent protection for the preserve's natural resources.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP

Natural resources

Theodore Marsh protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland and a portion of Rock Run.

Wildlife found at the preserve includes more than 100 bird species, such as the pie-billed grebe.

The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including velvety white vervain, smooth blue aster and marsh bellflower.

The site is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning and habitat restoration to protect and enhance its natural resources.

The preserve's restoration began in 2000 with the removal of fill that had been dumped into the wetlands and the creation of upland prairie and wetland on more than 120 acres. 

Amenities and activities

Trails

Theodore Marsh provides access to the 11.29-mile, paved Rock Run Greenway Trail, ideal for the following activities:

  • Biking
  • Hiking/running
  • In-line skating
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Snowshoeing

The preserve also provides access to the 4.36-mile, paved Joliet Junction Trail, ideal for the following activities:

  • Biking
  • Hiking/running
  • In-line skating
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Snowshoeing

The Rock Run Greenway Trail and Joliet Junction Trail connect to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ crushed limestone I&M Canal State Trail to provide a 16-mile, mostly paved loop trail.

Picnicking

The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental, Gaylord Road Access Shelter, which has a perrmit capacity of 60 people.

Playground

The preserve features a playground.

Geocaching

Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve.