Theodore Marsh
Location
Theodore Marsh is located on Gaylord Road, north of Theodore Street, in Crest Hill.
Hours
Sunrise-sunset
Trails
Rock Run Greenway Trail
Theodore Marsh Trail
Phone
815-727-8700
Theodore Marsh offers a mix of prairie, wetland and woodland habitats that have been carefully restored to support a wide range of species. With strong trail connections and abundant birdlife, the 292-acre preserve provides both recreation and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Planning your visit
Theodore Marsh is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year except Christmas.
Amenities and activities
- Picnicking: Gaylord Road Access Shelter accommodates up to 60 people and is available for rental.
- Playground: A playground is available at the preserve.
- Trails: Theodore Marsh provides access to the 11.29-mile paved Rock Run Greenway Trail and the 4.36-mile paved Joliet Junction Trail, both suitable for biking, hiking, running, in-line skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These trails connect to the I&M Canal State Trail to form a 16-mile, mostly paved loop.
Flora and fauna
Theodore Marsh protects a range of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland and a portion of Rock Run. Wildlife includes more than 100 bird species, such as pied-billed grebe. Plant species found at the preserve include velvety white vervain, smooth blue aster and marsh bellflower. Ongoing management efforts such as invasive species control, prescribed burning and habitat restoration help maintain these natural communities.
Restoration of the site began in 2000 with the removal of fill from wetlands and the creation of upland prairie and wetland across more than 120 acres.
Preserve history
Theodore Marsh was acquired between 1994 and 2009 and is part of the Rock Run preservation system, which protects more than 1,400 acres. A 140-acre portion of the preserve was registered as an Illinois Land and Water Reserve in 2003, providing permanent protection for its natural resources.
Upcoming events
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Trail Club: October at Sand Ridge Savanna Nature Preserve
Trail Club is back this fall. October's sessions will be at 8 a.m. Wednesdays at Sand Ridge Savanna.
Wild Child
Answer the call of your wild child with some fall fun at Hidden Oaks Nature Center.
Four Rivers Story Trail: ‘Millie Fleur Saves the Night’
Follow the Woodland Loop Trail while reading the beautifully illustrated “Millie Fleur Saves the Night.”
Latest headlines
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New trail segment links 'two jewels' in eastern Will County
New section of trail connects Plum Valley Preserve to Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve.
Find your stride with Trail Club at Hammel Woods in November
Our fall Trail Club will wind down in November with Sunday morning walks at Hammel Woods.
Smash and bash your Halloween jack-o'-lanterns at Pumpkin Smash events
Two nature centers are hosting Pumpkin Smash events to raise awareness about composting and keeping pumpkins from landfills.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Alcohol is allowed in all forest preserves without any special permission unless there is signage posted prohibiting alcohol in a particular area. For example, alcohol is prohibited inside of the District's dog parks.
The sale of alcohol is prohibited.
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.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions: Concealed Carry page for information about firearms in the District's forest preserves and visitor centers.