Preserve History
The 790-acre Forked Creek Preserve was acquired between 1974 and 2007.
The preserve is part of the Forked Creek preservation system, which conserves more than 2,400 acres.
Ballou Road Access is one of three access areas to the preserve, with Butcher Lane Access and Forsythe Woods, both in Wilmington, serving as the other entry points.
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Natural Resources
Forked Creek Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, wetland and a portion of Forked Creek.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes a variety of bird species, such as the spotted sandpiper, yellow-billed cuckoo, dickcissel and ovenbird.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including redbud, Kentucky coffee tree, glade mallow and smooth blue aster.
The site is managed with invasive species control and prescribed burning to protect and enhance its natural resources. Learn more about the District’s land management activities.
Amenities and Activities
Trails
Ballou Road Access features 0.67 mile of crushed limestone trail and access to the 22.29-mile, crushed limestone/paved Wauponsee Glacial Trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/Running
- Horseback Riding (on 20.16-mile crushed limestone segment; trailer parking available)
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
Dog Exercising
Ballou Road Access features a fenced 9-acre, off-leash dog park, including a 3-acre enclosure exclusively for dogs under 35 pounds. A permit is required for dog park use. Learn more about the District's dog parks, permits and fees.
Camping
Ballou Road Access offers two primitive campsites for family or group rental, with a permit capacity of six people per site. The campsites are on flat terrain in partial shade and provide access to fire pits and latrines. One campsite is on natural surface terrain and one is on a concrete pad and is ADA accessible. Learn more about camping permits, fees and equipment rental.
Picnicking
The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental, Ballou Road Access Shelter (permit capacity of 90 people). Learn more about picnic permits and fees.