Greene Valley

In its oak woodlands, savannas, and wetlands, Greene Valley boasts a collection of plants and trees not commonly found in other areas of the county. The preserve is home to many native birds, mammals and plants, and provides a spectacular display of spring wildflowers. In addition, management techniques such as prescription fires, reforestation and wetland restoration projects replace ecosystems lost long ago.

 

The wildlife at Greene Valley is plentiful: In the wetlands, waterfowl, shorebirds and aquatic life flourish, and toads and frogs can be heard during the spring breeding season; red foxes, coyotes, meadowlarks, and bobolinks co-exist in the meadows; and owls can be spotted in the forest. Hawk-watching from Greene Valley Hill is popular with birders in the fall.

The 190-foot Greene Valley Hill provides an enticing scenic overlook and is open to the public on weekends from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., spring through fall. A road leads from the base of the hill to a parking lot at the top, where visitors can get a bird's-eye view of DuPage County as well as the Chicago skyline. The introduction of native grasses and shrubs on the hillside combines conservational and recreational objectives, attracting native songbirds and wildlife while providing visual relief for preserve visitors. Model-glider and sail-plane owners with valid permits can fly their crafts from the hill.

Education

Self-Guided Nature Trail

The Tricky-Tree-Trek is a self-guided nature trail that gives visitors a chance to make their own leaf identification keys, identify trees while blindfolded, or solve a crossword puzzle using a tree finder. Reservations and materials are available from Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook. For more information, call (630) 850-8110.

Programs

The Forest Preserve District regularly offers canine events and programs on river fishing, biking, backpacking, camping, and archery at Green Valley. In addition, other nature, conservation, and leisure-activity programs are offered at other preserves throughout the district.

Recreation

Bicycling

Although bicycling is limited to the gravel or mowed-grass multipurpose trails, cyclists can still choose from a quick 30-minute jaunt to a leisurely afternoon exploration of this preserve's varied landscapes. Bicyclists should be considerate of horses and other trail users. To prevent soil erosion and damage to plants, riding off the trails is strictly prohibited.

Youth Group Camping

Thunderbird Youth Camp is located in the southwestern part of the preserve and has 10 wooded or semi-wooded campsites, including one that can accommodate groups up to 100. One campsite is handicap accessible. Open year-round, these camping areas are set aside for use by youth groups. Youth groups are defined as recognized, nonprofit organizations. Only members of these groups, with their accompanying leaders, may camp in these areas. Camping permits and adult supervision of one leader over 21 years of age for every 10 children are mandatory for campsite use. For information and permits, call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiers will enjoy the even terrain at Greene Valley as well as some of the hillier areas, like those away from the river. Skiers are asked to stay to the outside of the trail, leaving the inside area for hikers and other trail users. When conditions permit, trails are groomed for classical and skate-style cross-country skiing.

Horseback Riding

Riders are encouraged to use the many multipurpose trails at Greene Valley. Horseback riding in picnic areas and in the youth group campground is prohibited.

Model-Aircraft Area

Model-glider and sail-plane owners with valid District permits can fly their crafts from Greene Valley Hill. For permit information, call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

Off-Leash Dog Area

Dogs with Forest Preserve District off-leash dog-area permits can enjoy Greene Valley's fully fenced, 16-acre off-leash area, which includes a separate section for dogs that weigh 25 pounds or less. Water and a portable latrine are adjacent to the facility. Call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248 for permit applications and information. Rules for the area, which is off Greene Road, are posted at the preserve. Dogs must be leashed in all other areas of the preserve.

Picnicking

Picnic tables, water pumps and latrines are available, and two picnic shelters are reservable. Ground fires are not allowed, but visitors are welcome to bring their own grills and use the hot-coal disposal containers on site. Permits for reservable areas must be obtained at least three business days in advance; call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248.

Trails

Over 12 miles of marked multipurpose trails lead through a variety of ecosystems in the preserve, including woodland, savanna and wetland. Dog sledding is allowed on the Thunderbird Spur trail. The Tricky-Tree-Trek is a self-guided nature trail that gives visitors a chance to make and use their own leaf identification keys.

Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. At Greene Valley, the south parking lot off Greene Road includes barrier-free latrines and access to the preserve's trail system. A campsite in the youth-group camp is wheelchair accessible.

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.