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Hammel Woods Dog Park to Close for Two Days
Hammel Woods Dog Park will be closed on Thursday, May 20, and Friday, May 21, for a bench replacement/addition project. Wet cement and the presence of machinery will make it necessary to close the dog park for those two days.
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Preserve History
The 445-acre Hammel Woods was acquired between 1930 and 2011.
The preserve is part of the DuPage River preservation system, which conserves more than 1,500 acres.
The first 147 acres of Hammel Woods were the District’s second and third acquisitions in 1930. The preserve is located at the site of the historic Grinton Mill and was named in honor of American soldiers who fought in the World War I battle in Hamel, France.
DuPage River Access is one of three access areas to the preserve, with Route 59 Access and Crumby Recreation Area, both in Shorewood, serving as the other entry points.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP
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Natural Resources
Hammel Woods protects forest and wetland habitats.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes the long-tailed weasel and least weasel.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including swamp thistle, bitternut hickory and white baneberry.
Amenities and Activities
Trails
DuPage River Access features 1.6 miles of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Hiking/Running
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
DuPage River Access also provides access to a 3.77-mile, paved segment of the DuPage River Trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/Running
- In-Line Skating
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
Dog Exercising
DuPage River Access features a 10.8-acre, off-leash dog park, including a 2.3-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
DuPage River Access offers six primitive campsites for family or group rental, with a permit capacity of six to eight people per site. The campsites are on flat to slightly sloped natural surface terrain in partial to full shade and provide access to fire pits and latrines. Learn more about camping permits, fees and equipment rental.
Fishing
DuPage River Access offers access to shoreline fishing on the DuPage River. State and District regulations apply. Learn more about fishing in the forest preserves.
Canoeing/Kayaking
DuPage River Access features a canoe/kayak launch on the DuPage River. No launch pass is required. Learn more about canoeing/kayaking in the forest preserves, or download a map of the northeastern Illinois water trails.
Geocaching
Permits are available for geocaching at Hammel Woods. Learn more about geocaching permits.