McDowell Grove Forest Preserve

McDowell Grove Forest Preserve is a protected area near Naperville that spans about 465 acres of mature woodlands, fields, and riverside forest. The West Branch DuPage River runs through the property and shapes the overall landscape.

The site was home to a Civilian Conservation Corps camp from 1934 to 1943, where workers built bridges, picnic areas, and a limestone dam. After that, it served as a military training facility during World War II for instruction in radar technology and communications.

During World War II, the area transformed into a military facility where students received specialized training in radar technology and communications.

The park offers about 7 miles of trails for walking and biking as well as a 22-acre fishing lake for catching catfish, bass, and bluegill. You should be prepared for mixed conditions since the area has both dry woodland paths and wet riverside sections.

A restoration project on the West Branch DuPage River modified the original limestone dam to improve water flow and create habitats for aquatic life. This change allowed fish and mussels to migrate upstream and settle in new areas.

Location: Naperville

Website: https://dupageforest.org/places-to-go/forest-preserves/mcdowell-grove

GPS coordinates: 41.79475,-88.18340

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:41