Sun Lake Forest Preserve, Lake Villa, IL

Sun Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Villa covers 494 acres of rolling terrain with two lakes, restored prairies, and oak woodlands. Visitors reach the preserve via a 1.3-mile paved multi-use trail that connects directly to the park entrance on Sand Lake Road, providing immediate access for residents who live along or near the route. Anglers use the 36-acre Sand Lake for bass, bluegill, and channel catfish, while a second 10-acre lake offers non-motorized boating and wildlife viewing. A 2.5-mile natural-surface trail loops through savanna and wetland edges, and a 0.6-mile boardwalk section crosses sedge meadow for year-round dry footing. Picnic shelters, restrooms, and a fishing pier sit near the main parking area. The preserve lies within two miles of downtown Lake Villa’s Metra station and Route 83 retail corridor, giving homeowners quick access to commuter rail and daily conveniences without leaving the immediate area.

Biking Paths Cross-Country Skiing Hiking Paths Parking Picnic Area Restrooms