Preserve history
The 372-acre Lower Rock Run Preserve was acquired between 1989 and 2003.
The preserve is part of the Rock Run preservation system, which conserves more than 1,450 acres.
The preserve has two access areas, both in Joliet: I&M Canal Access and McClintock Road Access.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP
Natural resources
Lower Rock Run Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland and a portion of Rock Run.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes the northern water snake and eastern kingbird.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including the leather flower, white water lily and prairie phlox.
Amenities and activities
Trails
I&M Canal Access features 0.32 mile of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Hiking/running
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
I&M Canal Access also provides access to the 11.29-mile, paved Rock Run Greenway Trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/running
- In-line skating
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
I&M Canal Access also provides access to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' 61.5-mile, crushed limestone I&M Canal State Trail.
The Rock Run Greenway Trail and I&M Canal State Trail both connect to the 4.36-mile, paved Joliet Junction Trail to provide a 16-mile, mostly paved loop trail.
McClintock Road Access features 0.63 mile of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Hiking/running
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
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Dog park
McClintock Road Access features a 7.5-acre, off-leash dog park, including a 2.5-acre enclosure exclusively for dogs under 35 pounds. A permit is required for dog park use.
Picnicking
I&M Canal Access offers one picnic shelter for rental, I&M Canal Access Shelter, which has a permit capacity of 60 people.
Geocaching
Permits are available for geocaching at I&M Canal Access.
