Spring Bluff Forest Preserve
If you stand on the observation deck at Spring Bluff and turn slowly, you’ll see 360 degrees of ridge and swale topography unfolds like a living map of ancient glacial retreat.
This 229-acre preserve protects sand prairie, sand savanna, graminoid fen, and high-quality marsh. Spring Bluff Forest Preserve serves as critical habitat for a number of coastal flora and fauna.
What was once subdivided and slated for development in the late 1800s has undergone restoration since 1982, transforming this Preserve back into a thriving ecosystem. Here, herons nest in the marshes, rails and sedge wrens call from wetlands, and migrating peregrine falcons follow the shoreline corridor. The 0.7-mile trail follows an old road that now serves hikers and cyclists, connecting to the adjacent Illinois Beach State Park and offering some of the best birding in Lake County
Owned and Managed by:
Where It Is
Spring Bluff Forest Preserve address:
1200 7th Street, Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096
Parking available off 7th Street in lot directly southwest of North Point Marina (IDNR): North Point Dr, Winthrop Harbor, IL 60096
Trails: Stay on trails at all times and do not collect any materials from Lake Plain sites apart from photos and memories.
Ticks: Lake Plain Natural Areas have a significant tick population active from April through November. Take precautions: wear long pants tucked into socks, use insect repellent, and check yourself and pets thoroughly after visiting.
Limited Infrastructure: Many Lake Plain Natural Areas are overall purposely maintained in their natural state. Come prepared for a true natural area experience, and abide by all park rules and regulations.
Fragile Ecosystem: The globally rare plant communities here require careful stewardship. Stay on visible paths, avoid walking through wetlands, and never pick plants, dig roots, or collect seeds. Leave no trace.
What You Should Know
Spring Bluff Forest Preserve is a dedicated Nature Preserve by the Illinois Nature Preserve Commission.
Recreation
Field Trips
Outdoor Education
Scientific Research
Accessible
Viewing Platform
Hiking
Biking
Birding
Wildlife Viewing