McDowell Grove Forest Preserve, Protected area in Naperville, United States.
Description
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.
History
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.
Culture
During World War II, the area transformed into a military facility where students received specialized training in radar technology and communications.
Practical
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.
Did you know?
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.
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