Fox River Forest Preserve offers boating, camping and more
Mike Muggli heads out to the Fox River Forest Preserve a couple times a week to fish, usually catching bass or crappie.
“It's beautiful out here,” the music teacher said about his fishing spot along the river. “Days like this are few and far between,” he said of the picturesque afternoon as a nearby woman and her grandson watched boats cruise by.
Nestled along a peaceful stretch of the Fox River in Port Barrington, the preserve boasts panoramic views of the river making it the perfect backdrop for taking pictures or just relaxing in nature. The landscape features rolling topography, oak savannas and high-quality wetlands that support several native species and offer habitat protection for diverse wildlife. In some sections of the preserve, the hilly landscape is typical of southern Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine area. Unique to this preserve is a large rookery used by great blue herons and egrets, and a fen that supports two state-listed plant species.
A great deal of site work was done here from 2002 to 2005, and again in 2014 to 2015, to improve public access and amenities, restore natural areas, and create new trail connections. There is an array of recreational activities available, including a marina with boat slips, a public boat launch, indoor dry storage, shoreline fishing, and two picnic shelters. More than three miles of trails are open to hikers and cyclists with portions weaving along the riverbank or winding through wetlands and over boardwalks. Preserve trails also extend from the west to the village of Port Barrington at Center Street to join the village's pathway system.
The National Park Service has recognized the Fox River Forest Preserve as an access point along the Fabulous Fox River Water Trail that runs from Waukesha, Wisconsin, to Ottawa, Illinois. There are 67 other access points along the water trail.
“This is one of our more popular forest preserves for outdoor recreation enthusiasts,” said Dan Stearns, Lake County Forest Preserves superintendent of recreational facilities. “The surrounding water makes a great playground for a variety of sports, including wakeboarding, water-skiing, tubing and fishing,” he said.
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Marina
“The marina underwent a large renovation project in 2001 when a unique floating dock system was installed,” Stearns said.
The marina's 169 slips are available in three lengths: 20, 25 and 30 feet. Slip holders can enjoy 24/7 access to their boats. Restrooms and showers are available.
“We still have some slips available for rent this season,” he said.
Indoor and outdoor storage areas are also available on-site.
There is also a four-lane public launch for boats, personal watercraft and paddlecraft. The ramp is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily. The daily launch fee is $10 for residents and $15 for nonresidents. Seasonal launch passes are also available at the marina, supported by user fees.
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Shelters
Two large picnic shelters can be reserved for family or corporate gatherings. Weddings also take place here from time to time, Stearns said. One of the shelters features a beautiful view of the river with a large stone fireplace that adds to its ambience. The other shelter highlights a rustic stone-and-wood construction.
<h3 class="leadin">Youth Group Camping
Maintaining a piece of the area's history, the preserve offers camping opportunities for youth groups. The campground provides a rustic camping experience for Scouts and other organized youth groups with adult supervision, and an approved permit. The area is equipped with a fire pit, firewood, water, toilets and parking access, and can accommodate groups of up to 40 campers. The preserve joins Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve in Wadsworth and Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda in offering camping opportunities for youth groups.
Visitors at the Fox River Forest Preserve say majestic views of the water, diversity of wildlife, and a variety of recreational options are key draws.
“Acquired by the Lake County Forest Preserves in 1990, the preserve was once a seasonal recreational vehicle campground, but thanks to extensive land and shoreline restoration, and public access improvements, it is now one of Lake County's most beautiful landscapes,” said Jim Ballowe, director of facilities at the Lake County Forest Preserves.
<b>Mark your calendar</b>
Fred Fest is a great opportunity to check out the Fox River Forest Preserve this summer. The family-friendly fundraiser, which is from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17, supports the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Live music by five local bands, food and drink for purchase and many activities for children are part of the festival. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids, or a family pass is $25.
<i>Kim Mikus is a communications specialist for the Lake County Forest Preserves. She writes a bimonthly column about various aspects of the preserves. Contact her with ideas or questions at kmikuscroke@LCFPD.org. Connect with the Lake County Forest Preserves on social media @LCFPD.</i>
Fox River Forest Preserve
28500 W. Roberts Road, Port Barrington, (847) 381-0669,
Size: 598 acres
Activities: Biking, boating, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, hiking, picnic shelter rental, youth group camping, cross-country skiing