Independence Grove Forest Preserve


This exquisite preserve located in Libertyville, Illinois has something for everyone: beautiful Independence Grove Lake, approximately 7 miles of trails, a visitor center with exhibits and a café, a banqueting hall, bike and boat rental, a native garden and a beach house.

Details


Location

Main entrance is on Buckley Road (Route 137) east of North Milwaukee Avenue in Libertyville, Illinois. A detailed map may be found here.

Website(s)

Distance from Downtown Chicago

42 miles from the center of town

How To Get There

Bike, Walk, Drive, Metra Rail

Accessibility

There are accessible parking spaces and restrooms. Paved trails are accessible.

Things To Do

Beach Activities, Biking, Birdwatching (bluebirds, eagles), Boating, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking, Ice Fishing, Ice Skating, Inline Skating, Jogging, Off Leash Dog Area, Other Features (Banqueting Hall, Café), Picnicking, Playground, Running, Swimming, Visitor Center, Volleyball and Wildflowers.

Fun Facts

115 acre Independence Grove Lake was reclaimed from a gravel quarry.

Other Information

There are a number of parking lots, restrooms and water fountains in the preserve.

Eats

Liberty Restaurant, 419 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Libertyville, Illinois features hearty breakfasts. The 2 egg breakfast with fruit or hashbrowns and pancakes or toast is a bargain.

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Best Time To Visit

All year

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