Messenger Marsh
Location
Messenger Marsh is located on South Bell Road, south of Route 7/159th Street, in Homer Glen.
Hours
8 a.m.-sunset
Trails
Spring Creek Greenway Trail
Phone
815-727-8700
Messenger Marsh in Homer Glen offers a mosaic of habitats, including forest, savanna and stretches of Spring Creek. The 627-acre preserve plays an important role in conserving natural landscapes and wildlife.
A scenic stretch of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail runs through the preserve.
Planning your visit
Messenger Marsh is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year except Christmas.
Amenities and activities
- Dog park: A 10.25-acre off-leash dog park provides ample space for dogs to run and play, including a 1.25-acre area designated for dogs under 35 pounds. A permit is required.
- Fishing: Shoreline fishing is available at a detention pond within the preserve. State and District regulations apply.
- Picnicking: The Messenger Marsh Shelter is available for rental and can accommodate up to 100 people, making it a great option for gatherings and group outings.
- Trail: The Spring Creek Greenway Trail is a 3.44-mile crushed limestone route ideal for biking, hiking, running, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. Horse trailer parking is available.
Flora and fauna
Messenger Marsh’s diverse habitats provide important refuge for wildlife and native plants. Wetland and creek areas support amphibians and aquatic life, while prairies and savannas attract birds and pollinators. Forested sections offer shelter for reptiles and woodland species, creating a balanced and thriving ecosystem.
Preserve history
The preserve was acquired between 1989 and 2000 and has since become a key component of the Spring Creek preservation system, which protects more than 2,200 acres. Through continued restoration and conservation efforts, the preserve remains an important space for protecting biodiversity and providing outdoor recreation opportunities.
Upcoming events
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Triple Trail Challenge
Visit some of the hidden gems of Will County on a progressive hike where we will hike three locations in one afternoon.
Full Moon: Hunt the Moon at Hadley Valley
Join us on a moonlight hike as we hunt for sights and sounds of wildlife while learning about hunting practices of the past.
Volunteer Morning: Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve
Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in your community by attending one or more of the Forest Preserve’s volunteer mornings.
Latest headlines
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New audio tour brings Joliet Iron Works history to life
Visitors can download the app for a narrated tour through the once-bustling industrial site.
Wild about Will County? Order 2027 calendar full of stunning nature photography
Proceeds from calendar sales benefit The Nature Foundation of Will County, the Forest Preserve District's nonprofit partner.
Boat launches, bait shops to close Nov. 1
Winter preparations include closing boat launches and bait shops as well as turning off water fountains and closing lower parking lots.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, an annual permit is required to use our dog parks. The permit comes on a lanyard and must be displayed while you are in the park. Visit the dog park page for more information.
All dogs utilizing the dog parks need to have a current rabies vaccination tag number on file and must be displayed while inside the dog parks. Residents of Will County are required to register each dog with Will County Animal Protection Services (Animal Control). More information can be found on its website.
Groups less than 25 people may use picnic groves and shelters on a first-come, first-served basis without a picnic permit if the picnic area is not already reserved. However, purchasing a picnic permit is recommended due to the high demand for picnic groves and shelters. A picnic permit will reserve your space. Picnic permits are required for groups that are 25 people or more. Visit the picnicking page for more information.
Electric-assist bicycles are allowed within the preserves as long as they meet certain requirements. The bikes must:
- Be low speed (an electric motor of less than 750 watts).
- Have a maximum speed of less than 20 miles per hour.
- Have functional pedals.
- Have a rider who is 16 years of age or older.
Per the District's General Use Ordinance, persons riding a bicycle must conform to federal and state bicycle laws.
Call 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency safety concerns should be directed to the Laraway Communications Center dispatch at 815-727-6191 (option 9) to have a Forest Preserve District officer dispatched. Non-emergency and past concerns can also be reported to the District's police department by calling 815-727-8700 or through the online form.