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 with boat slips, a public boat launch, and dry storage.
Marina
Boat ramp: 6:30 am–10 pm, March 31–season end. Slip holders: 24-hour access, May–October.
Boaters love the marina’s central location within this scenic preserve. It's a perfect place to start your day in the sun. Boat slips, a public boat launch and indoor dry storage are available here. The surrounding water makes a great playground for a variety of sports, including wakeboarding, water-skiing, tubing and fishing.
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Trails
More than 3 miles of trails wind through woodlands, over two boardwalks, and along the banks of the Fox River. Trails here are open to hikers, cyclists and cross-country skiers. Please keep dogs leashed and on trails at all times, and pick up after them. Learn about our Off-Leash Dog Areas (permit required).
Preserve trails also extend from the west to the Village of Port Barrington at Center Street to join the Village's pathway system.
Picnic Shelters
The preserve's two reservable shelters are ideal for family or corporate gatherings.
Shelter A offers a beautiful view of the river. A large stone fireplace adds to the shelter's ambience. The rustic stone-and-wood construction of Shelter B 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.
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.
Youth Group Camping
Scouts and other organized youth groups with adult supervision can apply for a permit to use the camping area. The campground site is equipped with a fire pit, firewood, water, toilets and parking access. The campground here can accommodate groups of up to 40 people. The site also can be divided between two smaller groups on a given date. For information about reserving the campground, call 847-367-6640 for details.