Prairie Lathem Park, Batavia, IL

Prairie Lathem Park occupies 60 acres of restored tallgrass prairie in Batavia, offering residents direct access to 3.2 miles of crushed-limestone trails that connect to the Fox River Trail. The park’s central pond supports catch-and-release fishing and attracts migrating waterfowl, while adjacent open fields host scheduled youth soccer and baseball leagues on irrigated turf. A 4,800-square-foot playground includes ADA-compliant equipment and a splash pad that operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Picnic shelters equipped with electrical outlets and grills are available by reservation, and a dog-friendly area with separate small- and large-breed sections sits near the south entrance. Mature bur oaks and native wildflowers line the perimeter, providing shade and seasonal color. The park is located less than one mile from downtown Batavia’s Metra station and the city’s public library, placing residents within a short drive or bike ride of grocery stores, restaurants, and the Batavia Riverwalk along the Fox River.

Baseball Diamonds Hiking Paths Parking Picnic Area Playground Shelter Softball Fields Tennis Courts