Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a natural area in DuPage County, Illinois, covering about 2,500 acres with prairies, savannas, and oak-maple woodlands that together support hundreds of native plant species. The preserve features varied terrain and ecosystems across its expanse, creating diverse habitats throughout the property.

The preserve began when the Forest Preserve District acquired its first 75 acres in 1925. A major expansion came in 1973 when approximately 2,200 acres from the US Bureau of Recreation were added, forming most of the present-day site.

The preserve is named after Seymour Waterfall, an early president of the District's Board of Commissioners, rather than its waterfalls. This connection to local leadership shapes how the place is known and remembered by the community.

The preserve has three parking areas to choose from: the main entrance on Northgate Road, the Rocky Glen waterfall lot on Bluff Road, and another on Lemont Road. Choosing the right parking area depends on which trails or features you plan to visit during your time there.

The preserve completely surrounds the Argonne National Laboratory, creating an unusual boundary between nature and scientific research. In the southwestern section, a model airplane field gives the area another purpose beyond typical hiking and wildlife viewing.

GPS coordinates: 41.72500,-87.97361

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:24