Nature Preserve Johnson's Mound

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nature Preserve Johnson's Mound is a 320-acre preserve located in Kane County, Illinois.


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Summary

The preserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairie, and wetlands. There are several good reasons to visit Johnson's Mound, including the opportunity to observe wildlife, discover rare plant species, and hike through beautiful natural areas. The preserve is home to several points of interest, including a 1.5-mile loop trail that takes visitors through the heart of the preserve and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There is also a 30-foot observation tower that provides panoramic views of the preserve and the nearby Fox River Valley.

In addition to hiking and wildlife observation, visitors to Johnson's Mound can participate in several educational programs and events throughout the year. The preserve is home to a variety of interesting plant and animal species, including the vulnerable Hine's Emerald Dragonfly and the threatened Blanding's Turtle, both of which are rare and protected species in Illinois.

The best time of year to visit Johnson's Mound is during the spring and summer months when the preserve is in full bloom and wildlife activity is at its peak. The preserve is open year-round, however, visitors should be prepared for inclement weather during the fall and winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.

Overall, Johnson's Mound is a beautiful and unique nature preserve that offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of habitats and observe rare and interesting plant and animal species. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Johnson's Mound is definitely worth a visit.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
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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