McDowell Grove

In the 1930s, McDowell Grove was a camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps — a work-relief program part of President Roosevelt’s New Deal legislation — which built bridges, picnic areas, a boathouse, bridle paths and a limestone dam on the West Branch of the DuPage River. During World War II, the site served as a secret installation for developing radar technology.

Today, the 515-acre McDowell Grove Forest Preserve in Naperville is comprised of mature woodlands, open fields with eastern bluebirds and Cooper’s hawks, and a floodplain forest with towering butternuts and black maples. It’s recently been the site of a dam- modification project, which will return the stretch of river to a healthier, more natural waterway and improve aquatic habitats.

Recreation

Picnicking

Picnickers can reserve either the 25-person shelter along the river or the 150-person picnic area to the southeast through Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248 but must do so at least three business days before their visit.

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

For everyone’s convenience, McDowell Grove offers a water pump and portable toilets.

Trails

McDowell Grove features nearly 7 miles of looped turf and limestone trails for hikers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers and horseback riders. The trails connect to the Regional Trail, which links with four other preserves.

Fishing

Anglers can access the 22-acre Mud Lake and the West Branch of the DuPage River from McDowell Grove Forest Preserve. The state has stocked the river with smallmouth bass for catch-and-release fishing. Anglers will find catfish, bass, carp, sunfish and bluegill in Mud Lake.

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 are welcome at McDowell Grove but must be on leashes no greater than 10 feet in length.

Boating

Paddlers can access the West Branch of the DuPage River near the Fawell Dam. They can reach the put-in and take-out sites via a gravel access road off Raymond Drive. Parking is not available at this location.

Watercraft must have valid Illinois Department of Natural Resources registrations. Federal and state regulations require that watercraft contain one well-fitting, Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for each member on board and that children under 13 wear their PFDs at all times.

 

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.