Keepataw Preserve
Location
Keepataw Preserve is located on Bluff Road, east of Joliet Road, in DuPage Township.
Hours
8 a.m.-sunset
Trails
Keepataw Nature Trail
Phone
815-727-8700
Keepataw Preserve in DuPage Township offers a striking landscape shaped by both natural processes and its quarrying past. A total of 215 acres, the preserve combines forest, prairie, wetland and river habitats with towering limestone features to create a unique place to explore.
Planning your visit
The preserve is open 8 a.m. to sunset every day of the year except Christmas.
Exploring the preserve
Keepataw Preserve features a 0.28-mile natural surface trail suitable for hiking and running.
Flora and fauna
Keepataw Preserve protects a variety of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland and a portion of the Des Plaines River. A defining feature of the preserve is a 60-foot limestone bluff formed from deposits mined around the turn of the 20th century.
Wildlife includes rare species such as the federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly.
Plant species found at the preserve include robin’s plantain, Ohio horse mint and false pennyroyal. Ongoing management efforts such as invasive species control, prescribed burning and habitat restoration help maintain and protect these natural communities.
Preserve history
The preserve was acquired between 1978 and 1992 and is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system, which protects 2,600 acres.
The preserve was previously the site of a limestone quarry. Cultural resources include the remains of a kiln used during quarrying operations.
Upcoming events
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Bat Night for Adults
August 14, 2026 | 7:00 P.M TO 8:30 P.M
Enjoy an evening watching bats emerge from their sleeping quarters and “listening” for bats while discovering some fascinating facts about these flying mammals.
Volunteer Morning: Monee Reservoir
August 15, 2026 | 8:00 A.M TO 11:00 A.M
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.
Hummingbird Hangout
August 15, 2026 | 9:00 A.M TO 12:00 P.M
Hang out in Plum Creek Nature Center’s hummingbird courtyard to watch as they come and go from our hummingbird nectar buffet.
Latest headlines
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Wild Relatives: The diminutive elf owl
August 13, 2026 | Nature and wildlife
The tiny elf owl is the world's smallest raptor, and it thrives hunting insects and more in the desert climate where it lives.
Kindergarten teacher gets A+ for contest-winning bumblebee photo
August 5, 2026 | Programs and events
Nancy "Gaby" Valladolid snapped July's winning shot at Isle a la Cache preserve. The contest continues through Dec. 31.
Field day digs into soil health at Jackson Creek Preserve
July 31, 2026 | Conservation and restoration
Farm Bureau event showcases organic farming and regenerative agriculture practices.
Frequently asked questions
There are many opportunities to volunteer with us. Visit the volunteer information page for more information.
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions: Concealed Carry page for information about firearms in the District's forest preserves and visitor centers.
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.