Mallard Lake

DISTRICT ALERT Mallard Lake Forest Preserve is closed during renovation, Learn More»

Rich in gravel and peat deposits left behind by the Wisconsin Glacier, Mallard Lake is a vast preserve with open waters, wetlands, grassy fields, scattered woodlands, and meandering trails. The preserve’s diverse habitats are home to wetland wildlife, such as beavers, great blue herons, bullfrogs; grassland birds such as eastern meadowlarks, bobolink, dickcissel; and birds of prey, such as great horned owls, red-tailed hawks, kestrels. In addition, Mallard Lake holds the distinction of being the largest lake in DuPage County.

Education

The Forest Preserve District regularly offers programs on kayaking and canoeing at Mallard Lake. In addition, other nature, conservation, and leisure-activity programs are offered at other preserves throughout the district.

Recreation

Boating

Mallard Lake allows carry-in boating. A District private-boating permit is required. A steel lockbox is available near the lake to collect daily permit fees; annual fees may be purchased through the District headquarters in Wheaton. Non-gasoline-powered watercraft up to 20 feet in length including boats, canoes, kayaks, and multi-chambered inflatables with factory-installed hardened floors and transoms are permitted. All watercraft must be registered with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and must be transported on or in a vehicle (no trailers) and carried to the lake. Watercraft must also contain one well-fitting personal flotation device for each member on board; children under 13 are required to wear their PFDs at all times. In addition, District regulations require that all individuals, regardless of age, must wear PFDs when in private canoes and kayaks. For details, call Visitor Services (630) 933-7248.

Fishing

At 85 acres, the namesake Mallard Lake is the District's largest recreational lake. Fishing will yield muskie, largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. Limestone trails that have flat to moderate inclines lead to two wheelchair-accessible fishing piers. The nine-acre Cloverdale Pond and nearby West Branch of the DuPage River also provide excellent fishing opportunities. 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.

Off-Leash Dog Area

Dogs with Forest Preserve District off-leash dog-area permits can enjoy the preserve’s off-leash area. Call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248 for permit applications and information. Rules for the area are posted at the preserve. Please note that dogs must be leashed in all other areas of the preserve. 

Picnicking

Picnickers can choose from several scenic sites as well as a 50-person reservable shelter. Latrines and a water pump are available as are garbage and recycling receptacles. Ground fires are prohibited, but visitors may bring their own grills and dispose of coals in the on-site hot-coal containers.

Trails

A multipurpose trail winds around the lake -- allowing access to islands via two bridges – and connects to Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve and the Bartlett Park District trail system.

 

Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Mallard Lake hosts two wheelchair-accessible fishing piers. Limestone trails of moderate to flat inclines lead to the piers. 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.