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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'The Stick' Traveling Exhibition by Clay Rice
September 23, 2026 | 10:00 A.M TO 4:00 P.M
This traveling exhibition, developed by South Carolina silhouette artist Clay Rice and the South Carolina State Museum, follows a young boy who embarks on an exciting journey after finding a stick.
Trail Hoppers
September 24, 2026 | 4:00 P.M TO 6:00 P.M
Log some miles walking through the prairie as grasshoppers bounce out of our way.
Trail Club: September at Hadley Valley
September 24, 2026 | 5:00 P.M TO 6:00 P.M
Trail Club is back this fall, and in September the group will meet at 5 p.m. Wednesdays at Hadley Valley.
Latest headlines
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Rustic and cozy Fireside Fest coming to Messenger Woods
September 21, 2026 | Programs and events
Enjoy food, music, a campfire and more on Saturday, Oct. 3.
‘Enthusiasm and confidence’: Four Rivers interpreter wins regional award
September 18, 2026 | Programs and events
Outstanding New Interpreter Award honors Lyons’ creativity, passion and growing expertise
Fall volunteer mornings offer hands-on habitat work across Will County
September 18, 2026 | Volunteering
October through December opportunities include seed collection and brush control.
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.