Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve | Naperville

Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve is one of the most expansive and ecologically significant preserves in DuPage County, Illinois. Located in south Naperville, it covers approximately 1,829 acres and is managed by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. The preserve is known for its vast open prairies, rich wildlife habitat, and wide range of recreational amenities.

Location and Access

Primary Entrances:

Main entrance and off-leash dog area: On 83rd Street, about 0.5 miles west of Book Road.

Model-craft entrance and secondary access: On Plainfield-Naperville Road, roughly 0.5 miles south of 75th Street.

Hours:
Open daily from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset.

Ecological Importance

Springbrook Prairie is a designated Illinois Nature Preserve and includes protected marshes, prairies, and stream corridors. It is considered one of the most important grassland bird habitats in the region.

Key natural features include:

Tallgrass prairies: Rare and vital for pollinators and native bird species.

Wetlands and stream corridors: Including Spring Brook Creek, which has undergone extensive restoration to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and support aquatic life.

Shrub meadows and early successional forests: Supporting a wide array of plant and animal species.

Wildlife highlights:

State-endangered birds such as Henslow’s sparrows, northern harriers, and short-eared owls.

Grassland specialists like bobolinks, dickcissels, meadowlarks, and grasshopper sparrows.

Occasional sightings of deer, foxes, and other native mammals.

Designations:

Springbrook Prairie Nature Preserve and Springbrook Marsh Land & Water Reserve, protecting over 1,650 acres with enhanced conservation status under the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission.

Recreational Features

Multi-use Trail System:

A 5.5-mile crushed limestone loop trail.

Suitable for hiking, biking, running, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding.

Parts of the trail may be temporarily closed during nesting seasons to protect wildlife.

Off-Leash Dog Area:

Enclosed 35-acre area where dogs can run freely.

Separate small dog section.

A permit from the Forest Preserve District is required for use.

Model Aircraft Flying Field:

A designated field for flying remote-controlled planes.

Users must obtain a permit and comply with flight safety rules.

Picnicking:

Informal picnic areas with tables at the 83rd Street and Plainfield-Naperville Road entrances.

No reservation required; available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Interpretive Signage and Wildlife Viewing:

Educational signs along trails detailing prairie restoration and local wildlife.

Ideal spots for birdwatching and nature photography.

Restoration and Stewardship

Springbrook Prairie has undergone extensive ecological restoration over the last few decades, including:

Stream restoration: The Spring Brook Creek project restored a more natural meandering stream pattern, improving aquatic habitats and reducing erosion.

Prairie and wetland restoration: Ongoing removal of invasive species, replanting of native grasses and flowers, and prescribed burns to maintain prairie health.

Flood control: Enhancements to the creek and surrounding wetlands contribute to regional flood mitigation efforts.

Rules and Permits

Dogs must be leashed in all areas except the designated off-leash dog park.

Permits required for:

Use of the off-leash dog area

Use of the model aircraft field

Group events and commercial photography

Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive ecosystems.

No alcohol, hunting, or unauthorized vehicles.

Summary

Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve offers a rare combination of ecological preservation and public recreation. Whether you’re a nature lover, a dog owner, a trail enthusiast, or a wildlife observer, this preserve provides a rich and accessible natural space within suburban Naperville. It stands as a model of prairie conservation and community use in northeastern Illinois.