McDowell Grove

In the 1930s, McDowell Grove was a work camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps, who built bridges, picnic areas, a boathouse, bridle paths and a limestone dam on the West Branch. During World War II, the preserve was a secret installation site for developing radar technology. In 1946, when the federal government no longer needed the facility for military purposes, the land was purchased by the District.

Today, situated on the banks of the West Branch of the DuPage River, McDowell Grove is comprised of mature woodlands, open fields, and a floodplain forest. Visitors will enjoy spotting eastern bluebirds and Cooper’s hawks in the open fields, and will appreciate the towering butternuts and black maples of the floodplain. The preserve has been the site of reforestation projects and dam removal, which will return that portion of the river to a healthier, more natural waterway and improve aquatic habitats.

Education

The Forest Preserve District offers nature, conservation, and leisure-activity programs at McDowell Grove and other preserves throughout the district.

Recreation

Boating

Canoeists and kayakers can paddle up the DuPage River from the launch near the parking lot. McDowell Grove can also be used as a takeout location when floating down the DuPage River from the north. All watercraft must be registered with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and must contain one well-fitting personal flotation device for each member on board. District regulations require that all paddlers wear their PFDs at all times.

Fishing

Anglers can access the 22-acre Mud Lake and the West Branch of the DuPage River from the preserve. Smallmouth bass have been stocked in the river for catch and release. Catfish, bass, carp, sunfish and bluegill can be caught in Mud Lake. Some of the best times to catch fish are in the early morning or late afternoon hours. Please be careful when fishing, and remember that daily creel limits are in place to preserve the long-term fishing program. All anglers 16 and older (except legally disabled persons) are required to have valid Illinois sport fishing licenses in their possession and must follow District and state regulations.

Picnicking

Picnickers can enjoy a reservable 25-person capacity picnic shelter at the river's shore and a 150-person capacity reservable picnic area to the southeast. Ground fires are prohibited, but visitors may bring their own grills and dispose of coals in the on-site hot-coal containers. Latrines and a water pump are available to make visits more enjoyable.

Trails

McDowell Grove features nearly seven miles of looped, turf and limestone trails for hikers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers and horseback riders. The trails meander through the 439-acre preserve and connect to the Regional Trail (linking four other preserves).

 

Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. For special accessibility needs or concerns, please contact the District's ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days in advance of your visit.