East Branch

The 502-acre East Branch Forest Preserve in Glendale Heights is largely a natural wetland along the East Branch of the DuPage River with lakes, marshes and wildlife habitats. It is an excellent place to observe grassland birds, shorebirds, and waterfowl, including spring and fall migrants. In addition to recreational opportunities, the preserve provides valuable benefits to the community in the form of stormwater control and improved water quality.

Recreation

Picnicking

A picnic area is located at the Glen Ellyn Road entrance.

 

Ground fires are prohibited, but visitors may bring their own grills and use the on-site hot-coal disposal containers.

 

For everyone’s convenience, East Branch offers portable toilets near both parking lots.

Trails

One 0.8-mile trail and several unmarked footpaths allow visitors to observe everything from white-tailed deer and coyotes to great blue herons and migrant waterfowl.

Fishing

The 15-acre Rush Lake has a maximum depth of 20 feet with little vegetation and steep gravel shores. The 5-acre Sunfish Pond has a maximum depth of 25 feet. Both feature largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and bluegill. Carp and bullheads also live in Rush Lake’s waters.

 

For those who would rather fish moving waters, the East Branch of the DuPage River winds through the preserve and offers anglers largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, and northern pike. Anglers should note that fishing is not allowed in the off-leash dog area.

 

Anglers 16 and older who are not legally disabled must have valid Illinois sport fishing licenses in their possession. All anglers must follow all District and state regulations.

Dogs

Dogs with valid Forest Preserve District permits can enjoy East Branch’s unfenced off-leash area at the Swift Road parking lot. Owners must have their dogs’ permits in their possession when in the off-leash area. Applications for annual and daily permits are available through Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

 

Rules for the off-leash area are posted at the preserve. Dogs must be on leashes no greater than 10 feet in length in all other areas of the preserve, including the parking lots.

Accessibility

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Individuals with accessibility needs or concerns should contact the District’s ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days before their visit.