Openlands Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan: Main Entrance - Highwood, Illinois

Discover the Hidden Gem: Openlands Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan

Nestled quietly at 24256 Patten Rd, Highwood, IL 60040, the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan offers a serene escape into nature. This remarkable preserve, accessible via 73676640, is a must-visit for nature lovers and families alike. With an impressive average opinion of 4.6/5 on Google My Business, it stands out as a top-rated nature preserve in the area.

Location and Accessibility

The preserve is conveniently located off the beaten path, providing a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle. Visitors can easily access the Main Entrance through 73676640 or by parking at the wheelchair accessible parking lot adjacent to the entrance. The preserve is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its natural beauty.

Special Features

What sets the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve apart is its unique blend of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Highlights include:
- Hiking Trails: Enjoy picturesque walking paths, especially the 3/4 mile paved path leading to the lakeshore. These trails are perfect for families with kids and offer kid-friendly hikes.
- Dogs Allowed: While pets are welcome, remember to keep them on a leash.
- Multiple Points of Interest: Besides hiking, the preserve caters to various interests. It's not just about the trails; there's a wide area for picnicking and enjoying the outdoors.

Recommendations for Visitors

For those planning a visit, here are some tips:
- Parking: Arrive early to secure a spot in the wheelchair accessible parking lot.
- Accessibility: The entrance and trail paths are designed for easy access, making it suitable for visitors with mobility concerns.
- Nature Experiences: Take in the breathtaking views from the narrow dirt trails, perfect for a refreshing afternoon stroll.
- Family-Friendly: With areas geared towards kids and a variety of activities, it's an ideal spot for a family outing.

Additional Points of Interest

- The preserve offers a peaceful retreat, away from the noise of highways, yet remains connected to the Fort Sheridan area, allowing visitors to spend an entire day exploring.
- Note the warning signs regarding swimming and wading; these areas are preserved and not meant for swimming.

Why Visit Openlands Lakeshore Preserve

This preserve isn't just another park; it's a tranquil haven where nature and recreation converge. The combination of accessible facilities, diverse hiking options, and the preserved natural state makes it a standout destination. The preserve's low crowd levels mean you can enjoy nature without the usual rush, allowing for a truly immersive experience.

Engage with Nature Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore one of Illinois' most treasured outdoor spaces. To learn more and plan your visit, check out their website at lcfpd.org. Connect with the preserve, discover more about its offerings, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in nature.

Visitors can reach out through their website for any inquiries or detailed information about upcoming events and guided tours available at the preserve. Whether you're looking for a quiet afternoon or an adventurous day out, Openlands Lakeshore Preserve promises an enriching experience in harmony with the natural world.

👍 Reviews of Openlands Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan: Main Entrance

Chris R.

4/5

Off the beaten path compared to the main section of the Fort Sheridan property. Parked at the west entrance and walked down the 3/4 mile paved path to the lakefront. Beautiful views from the narrow dirt trail. Not a lot of beach space but you can find a nice little nook to get close to the water (swimming and wading not allowed. See warning signs.) Great unique and not too crowded hiking spot.

Michael Z.

5/5

Great space away from highway noise connected to Fort Sheridan you could spend a whole day in it

Taylor F.

5/5

Really excellent place to walk and sit and watch the sunrise. There are a few different ways to get down to the beach depending on how much to want to walk. There are some places where the asphalt trail has been washed away, so the whole space is not totally accessible for some.

Bonnie W.

5/5

A magical spot on the lake.

Great views, pretty trails, interesting beaches, and never too many people. My dogs and I go all the time.

FYI They do have a port-a-potty, but no other services (i.e. a sink) and definitely not designed with disabled people in mind. I don’t think there’s any way for a wheelchair to get down to the shore....

My only complaint is that it’s too small. I wish they had been able to purchase more of the land around it.

Celeste

5/5

Always a great area to walk. You can walk along the bluff and enjoy the views of the lake or go an walk along the beach. If you do the bluff walk, you have to go through a neighborhood for a short distance. I also finished up by doing the ravine walk, which has a gradual incline of 5%. Great place to get out, even in February!

Jayanthi R.

5/5

It was a windy day and wanted to view lake front during fall season. Oh my god it’s an awesome experience to visit this place as it was like a sea / ocean with waves. The stairs are a beautiful thing to click pics with fall colors and water as the background. Nice clean place.

Robert M.

5/5

Beautiful lake front area with various trails to hike and enjoy the various spectacles of beauty that abound. The one stair case down to the water was deemed lots of fun to climb down from the kids that were with our group. We came down that way and went up another to appreciate the variety that this place offers.🙃

My L. H. O. R.

5/5

One of my favorite places to visit. Paradise on earth, so beautiful and serene. The parking lot is way too small though.