Nestled along a tranquil section of the Fox River, this preserve features trails, picnic shelters, a youth group camping area, open space for outdoor recreation activities, toilets (closed mid-October to May 1), drinking fountains, and a Marina.
Marina
Boaters love the Marina’s central location. It's a perfect place to start your day in the sun. Boat slips, public boat launch and indoor dry storage are available here. View photos.
The surrounding water makes a great playground for a variety of sports, including wake boarding, water skiing, tubing and fishing.
Boat Slips
The Marina’s 169 slips are available for rent in three lengths: 20, 25, and 30 feet. Water, electric and a dock box are included with the 30-foot slip. These features can be purchased for an extra fee on the 25-foot slip. Water and electric are not available for the 20-foot slip, but a dock box may be purchased.
Public Boat Launch
Get in the water fast from our 4-lane launch for boats and personal watercraft.
- Ramp open daily 6 am–10 pm
- Daily launch fee: $10 for Lake County residents, $15 nonresidents
- Seasonal launch fee: $195 for Lake County residents, $275 nonresidents
Indoor Dry Storage
In winter, protect your boat in our enclosed dry building. In summer, store your boat in the building and take advantage of our in-and-out service that lets you hook up to your vehicle and drive to our launch ramp, or to the lake of your choice. View rate sheet.
Picnic Shelters
The preserve's two reservable shelters are ideal for family or corporate gatherings.
The large pavilion offers a beautiful view of the river. A large stone fireplace adds to the shelter's ambience.
The rustic stone-and-wood construction of the small shelter makes for a charming setting for your event.
Both shelters are adjacent to trails and parking, and have seasonal access to drinking fountains, running water and toilets. Note: water and toilets are not available from mid-October to May 1.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts bring back up to 50” muskie, up to 30” walleye, and small and largemouth bass. Fishing is not permitted in the Marina area or from the docks.
Trails
Two miles of trails wind through woodlands and along the banks of the Fox River, and are open to hikers, cyclists and cross-country skiers. Preserve trails also extend from the west to the Village of Port Barrington at Center Street to join the Village's pathway system.
Youth Group Camping
Scouts and other organized youth groups can apply for a permit to use the camping area. The site includes water and toilets, and can accommodate groups of up to 40 people. Call 847-367-6640 for details. |