Bemis Woods North
Rate this placeNearby: Bemis Woods South Sereda Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bemis Woods North is a forest preserve located in Cook County, Illinois.
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Summary
The preserve is spread over an area of 80 acres and is a part of the larger Cook County Forest Preserve. The preserve is known for its beautiful surroundings and is a popular destination for nature lovers.
One of the main reasons to visit Bemis Woods North is to explore its numerous hiking trails. The preserve has several trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding woods and the Des Plaines River. The preserve is also home to several species of birds and wildlife, making it a great place for bird watching and animal spotting.
The preserve is also home to several points of interest, including the historic Bemis Woods Sawmill and the Bemis Woods South Picnic Grove. The sawmill was built in the 19th century and is a great example of early industrial architecture. The picnic grove offers a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family.
Interesting facts about Bemis Woods North include that it is named after Frederick H. Bemis, a Chicago businessman who was instrumental in preserving the area as open space. The preserve is also home to several species of rare plants and is an important habitat for local wildlife.
The best time to visit Bemis Woods North is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful. The preserve is open year-round, however, and offers a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
In conclusion, Bemis Woods North is a beautiful forest preserve in Illinois that offers visitors a chance to explore nature, learn about local history, and relax in a peaceful setting. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature, Bemis Woods North is definitely worth a visit.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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