Colvin Grove Preserve
Hours
8 a.m.-sunset
Trails
Rock Run Greenway Trail
Phone
815-727-8700
The 175-acre Colvin Grove Preserve in Joliet contributes to the protection of natural areas in the region, while providing recreational opportunities for the public.
Planning your visit
Colvin Grove is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year except Christmas.
Amenities and activities
- Fishing: Colvin Grove offers shoreline fishing at a detention pond within the preserve. State and District regulations apply.
- Trails: Colvin Grove Preserve provides access to the 11.29-mile paved Rock Run Greenway Trail, ideal for biking, hiking, running, in-line skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Rock Run Greenway Trail and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ I&M Canal State Trail both connect to the 4.36-mile paved Joliet Junction Trail to create a 16-mile, mostly paved loop trail.
Flora and fauna
Colvin Grove Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, wetland and a portion of Rock Run. Wildlife found at the preserve includes a variety of bird species. The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including small skullcap.
Preserve history
Colvin Grove Preserve was acquired between 1991 and 2007. The preserve is part of the Rock Run preservation system, which protects more than 1,400 acres.
.jpg?language=en-US)
Upcoming events
View all events
Nature Camp for Seniors: Mammals of Thorn Creek Woods
Seniors invited to nature camp to discover the mammals of Thorn Creek Woods.
National Night Out
Celebrate National Night Out at Monee Reservoir with Forest Preserve District of Will County police officers and officers from other eastern Will County police agencies.
Lilo’s Turtle Trot
Help Lilo, our resident box turtle, on a simulated race around Plum Creek Nature Center.
Latest headlines
View all headlines
Field day digs into soil health at Jackson Creek Preserve
Farm Bureau event showcases organic farming and regenerative agriculture practices.
Vendors sought for Festival of Arts Through Nature on Sept. 26
Artisans should apply by the Sept. 1 deadline to be considered for this event.
Shooting stars from Perseids meteor shower to light up night sky in August
Get ready to wish upon a shooting star! A new moon during the peak of the Perseids meteor shower will create optimal viewing conditions this year.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Prescribed fire is a carefully planned activity, and controlled burns are conducted under specific weather conditions by trained professionals. Many Illinois ecosystems — including prairie, oak savanna and woodland — evolved with periodic fire. Prescribed burning helps:
- Control invasive species
- Encourage native plant growth
- Recycle nutrients
- Maintain healthy ecosystem structure
Burns are conducted with public safety as the top priority.
Sites are prioritized based on ecological quality, presence of rare species or communities, restoration potential and their importance in supporting larger landscape-level conservation goals. Protecting and buffering the best remaining natural areas ensures the greatest long-term ecological benefit.
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.