Fox River Shores Forest Preserve
Rate this placeNearby: Andres Park Tartan Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fox River Shores Forest Preserve is a beautiful natural area in the state of Illinois, situated along the banks of the Fox River.
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Summary
There are many excellent reasons to visit the preserve, including the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Some of the specific points of interest within the preserve include the Fox River Trail, which is a popular hiking and biking path that offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the many wetlands, woodlands, and prairies that make up the preserve, discovering unique plants and animals along the way.
One interesting fact about Fox River Shores Forest Preserve is that it is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Blanding's turtle and the Hine's emerald dragonfly. Visitors may also spot bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and other migratory birds during their visit.
The best time of year to visit Fox River Shores Forest Preserve varies depending on the activities and experiences you are interested in. Spring and fall are great times to see migratory birds and enjoy cooler temperatures for hiking and biking, while summer is perfect for fishing and boating. Visitors can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.
Overall, Fox River Shores Forest Preserve is a must-see destination in Illinois for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and diversity of the state's natural landscape.
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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.
Related References
Andres Park
Tartan Park
Aldis Park
Kemper Park
Helm Woods Forest Preserve