Willow Springs Forest Preserve, Willow Springs, IL

Willow Springs Forest Preserve occupies 1,800 acres of oak woodland, prairie, and wetland along the Des Plaines River in southwestern Cook County. A 10-mile network of crushed-limestone trails accommodates hiking, running, and horseback riding, with three equestrian staging areas and two picnic groves equipped with tables, grills, and vault toilets. The preserve’s two lakes support seasonal fishing and non-motorized boating, while the adjacent Palos Division offers 22 miles of additional multi-use paths. The Centennial Trail, a paved regional route, passes directly through the property, providing a direct off-road link to the I&M Canal and downtown Lemont. Access is via Archer Avenue (IL 171) and 104th Avenue, with parking lots at both entrances. The site lies less than four miles from the Willow Springs Metra station on the Heritage Corridor line and within a 15-minute drive of the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) and I-55, offering commuters quick regional connections while maintaining large tracts of protected open space.