Nippersink Forest Preserve, Round Lake, IL

Nippersink Forest Preserve covers 1,100 acres of oak-hickory woodland, restored prairie, and wetland along the north shore of Round Lake. Visitors reach it via two trailheads on Monaville Road and Route 134, each with parking and portable restrooms. A 3.4-mile crushed-stone loop accommodates walking, jogging, and cross-country skiing, while an additional 1.8 miles of mowed paths lead to an observation deck overlooking the lake’s shallow bays. Anglers cast for bass and panfish from a 200-foot fishing pier, and non-motorized boats may launch at a gravel ramp. Picnic tables sit beneath mature bur oaks, and a reservable shelter with water and electricity supports small gatherings. The preserve lies within a mile of Illinois Route 120 and the Metra Milwaukee District North line at Round Lake station, placing downtown Chicago approximately 50 minutes away by train. Seasonal waterfowl migrations, spring wildflowers, and fall foliage provide changing scenery throughout the year.

Biking Paths Cross-Country Skiing Fishing Hiking Paths Parking Picnic Area Restrooms Shelter Snowmobiling