Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
A serene prairie escape with botanical gardens, a covered bridge, and lake activities. Perfect for nature lovers and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant blooms and pleasant weather
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
Best Time
Vibrant blooms and pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene prairie escape with botanical gardens, a covered bridge, and lake activities. Perfect for nature lovers and families.
"A little bit of paradise on the prairie, offering beauty and affordable fun for all."
🎯 Affordable Paddle Boats
Paddle boats are a steal at $10/hour! Great for families and offers beautiful lake views. :rowboat:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Lots of paved trails for walking, jogging, and biking. Wear comfy shoes to explore the preserve fully. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden
Mahomet, IL
A stunning oasis of native plants, wildflowers, and seasonal blooms. Perfect for a peaceful stroll and photography.
Lake of the Woods Covered Bridge
Mahomet, IL
An iconic, picturesque covered bridge offering a charming photo opportunity and a scenic crossing over the creek.
Paddle Boating on the Lake
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
Enjoy affordable fun on the water with paddle boats. A great family activity with beautiful views of the preserve.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other local wildlife, especially along the paved trails. A delight for nature enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Seasonal Beauty & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Paddle Boats
Paddle boats are a steal at $10/hour! Great for families and offers beautiful lake views. :rowboat:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Lots of paved trails for walking, jogging, and biking. Wear comfy shoes to explore the preserve fully. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Botanical Garden Photo Ops
The Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens are incredibly beautiful, especially when flowers are in bloom. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
🦌 Wildlife Encounters
You might see deer up close! Early mornings or late afternoons are best for spotting wildlife. :deer:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Paddle Boats
Paddle boats are a steal at $10/hour! Great for families and offers beautiful lake views. :rowboat:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Lots of paved trails for walking, jogging, and biking. Wear comfy shoes to explore the preserve fully. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Botanical Garden Photo Ops
The Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens are incredibly beautiful, especially when flowers are in bloom. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
🦌 Wildlife Encounters
You might see deer up close! Early mornings or late afternoons are best for spotting wildlife. :deer:
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Lake
Don't miss the Museum of the Grand Prairie and the historic covered bridge. Lots to see in one area! :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve for its natural beauty, affordability, and variety of activities. It's a beloved spot for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. While generally well-maintained, some may find certain areas could benefit from more frequent upkeep.
"Great place to take a quality walk, enjoy the scenery, get exercise (lots of joggers, bike riders, dog walkers, etc), take the boats out or even have a gathering. Dont miss the botanical gardens too!"
Jesse Carman
"We did a paddle boat ride, and it only cost $10 per hour. They provided life jackets for adults and children. It was beautiful and would recommend for families. A huge bathroom area and pavilions. Also had a small bridge area and more. We’re from Mississippi and are just visiting my husband while he’s working in Illinois and I found this to be a very fun and affordable activity that we made a full day out of! Really enjoyed it and look forward to going back in the future hopefully!"
Lexie Burr
"Despite living almost half of my life here, I'd never been to the Botanical Garden at Lake of the Woods. Until this wedding that is. Absolutely beautiful place and perfect for an outdoor wedding!"
Cheryl Pease
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve is located in Mahomet, Illinois, about a 30-minute drive east of Champaign. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the preserve. :car:
Public transportation options directly to the preserve are limited. It's best to drive or arrange a ride-share service. :bus:
The preserve has a network of paved trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Maps are usually available at the entrance or visitor center. :running:
Generally, there are no entrance fees for Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve itself. However, activities like paddle boating may have associated costs. :moneywithwings:
Absolutely! It's a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering a variety of activities from boating and hiking to exploring the botanical gardens. :day_trip:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the preserve is free. You only pay for specific activities like paddle boat rentals. :ticket:
The preserve is typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like the museum or boat rentals may have separate hours, so it's good to check their official website. :clock1:
Advance booking for paddle boats is usually not required, but it's a good idea to call ahead during peak season or weekends to confirm availability. :phone:
The preserve often hosts events, including guided nature walks and volunteer planting days. Check the Champaign County Forest Preserve District website for schedules. :calendar:
The Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden is part of the preserve and is generally free to enter. Enjoy the beautiful flora! :flowerplayingcards:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy fishing, hiking, kayaking, paddle boating, picnicking, and exploring the botanical gardens. It's a versatile spot for outdoor recreation. :kayak:
Yes, the preserve has pavilions and picnic areas, making it ideal for family gatherings and events. :picnic_table:
Absolutely! The diverse habitats make it a great spot for bird watching and spotting local wildlife like deer. :bird:
The preserve has historical elements, including the Museum of the Grand Prairie and insights into the area's past, like the evolution of the sea slide and swim beach. :old_key:
Yes, there are restroom facilities available throughout the preserve, including a large area near the boat rentals. :toilet:
📸 📸 Photography
The Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden, the Covered Bridge, and the lake itself offer stunning photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful. :camerawithflash:
Many find it to be a beautiful backdrop for engagement and wedding photos, thanks to the gardens, bridge, and natural scenery. :ring:
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check the specific regulations with the Champaign County Forest Preserve District before flying. :drone:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Commercial photography or large-scale shoots might require permits, so inquire if unsure. :film_projector:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens provide shade. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas or pavilions. The preserve also has restrooms, making it convenient for a full day of family fun. Keep an eye out for wildlife; spotting deer can be a highlight for children.
🏃♀️ Active Individuals & Runners
Many locals use the preserve as their go-to spot for daily workouts. The scenic routes offer a refreshing change of pace from urban running, with opportunities to enjoy nature and spot wildlife along the way.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Nature lovers can spend hours exploring the diverse habitats, from the tranquil lake to the wooded trails. The chance to see local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, adds an extra layer of excitement. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for photography and wildlife observation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden
+1This garden is not just about aesthetics; it also serves an educational purpose, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and conservation. You might spot various pollinators like bees and butterflies among the blooms. The garden's evolution is also a point of interest, with ongoing efforts to plant and preserve native species, contributing to the overall ecological health of the preserve.
Activities on the Water
Beyond paddle boats, the lake is also suitable for kayaking and fishing. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners to try kayaking, and the preserve is known for its fishing opportunities. Whether you're looking for active fun or a relaxing afternoon by the water, the lake provides a refreshing escape.
A Glimpse into History and Nature
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the preserve's commitment to showcasing local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer grazing in the meadows or along the trails, especially during dawn and dusk. The preserve's paved paths wind through wooded areas, offering ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit