Preserve History
The 1,541-acre Hickory Creek Preserve was acquired between 1942 and 2010.
The preserve is part of the Hickory Creek preservation system, which conserves more than 2,000 acres.
The preserve is the District's largest individual preserve, and the majority of the land was acquired for a regional stormwater reservoir which was never constructed.
Hickory Creek Junction is one of three access areas to the preserve, with Hickory Creek Barrens in New Lenox and LaPorte Road Access in Mokena serving as the other entry points.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP
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Natural Resources
Hickory Creek Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland and a portion of Hickory Creek.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes more than 50 bird species, such as the pileated woodpecker, yellow-rumped warbler, brown creeper and hermit thrush.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including lead plant, beechwood sedge, yellow trout lily, prairie gentian and wild senna.
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
Hickory Creek Junction features 0.55 mile of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Hiking/Running
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
Hickory Creek Junction also provides access to the 3.74-mile, paved western segment of the Hickory Creek Bikeway, ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/Running
- In-Line Skating
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
In addition, Hickory Creek Junction provides access to the 7.5-mile, Route 30 Bikeway, a linear paved trail ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/Running
- In-Line Skating
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
The Route 30 Bikeway connects the western segment of the Hickory Creek Bikeway to the 2.9-mile, paved eastern segment at the Frankfort Township Office on Route 30.
Hickory Creek Junction also provides access via a 0.65-mile trail connection to the 22-mile Old Plank Road Trail, a linear paved trail ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/Running
- In-Line Skating
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
Picnicking
Hickory Creek Junction offers one picnic shelter for rental, Hickory Creek Junction Shelter, with a permit capacity of 120 people. Learn more about picnic permits and fees.
Playground
Hickory Creek Junction features an accessible playground constructed from recycled materials. Learn more about the District’s playgrounds.