Timber Ridge and Kline Creek Farm

What was once agricultural fields is now oak woodlands and savannas, restored and natural prairies, recreated wetlands, and lakes. Spring Lake is one of only two natural lakes in the DuPage Forest Preserve District, and is not accessible by trails. The preserve contains many other interesting natural features, including ephemeral ponds that are a haven for amphibians such as the northern leopard frog; rare and endangered plants; and colorful birds like scarlet tanager and Baltimore oriole.

The preserve also includes Kline Creek Farm, a living-history farm, with original farm buildings, authentic re-creations, livestock and historically accurate activities.

Education

Educational Programs

Kline Creek Farm offers educational programs including harvesting, canning, planting, maple sugaring and more. These programs are seasonal in nature and are available to school, youth and community groups. In the summer, the farm offers a unique, one-week day camp called Farmhands.

Agricultural Activities

Kline Creek Farm is involved in many different agricultural activities, such as the production of grain and hay, and raising livestock such as Percheron work horses, Southdown sheep, Shorthorn and Angus cattle, and chickens.

Domestic Activities

Depending on the season, there’s always something going on in the kitchen garden, like planting, weeding, or harvesting. The produce grown in the garden is processed or canned in the summer kitchen.

Kline Creek Farm Tours

A self-guided tour brochure is available at the visitor center. The house and summer kitchen are available for guided tours only; tours are available on the hour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily when the farm is open.

Visitor Center

The Timber Ridge Visitor Center features educational exhibits about the 1890s and the agricultural heritage of DuPage County. It also offers modern restrooms, a drinking fountain, snacks, and trail information for Timber Ridge Forest Preserve.

For information regarding programs and events at Kline Creek Farm, see Education, or contact the farm office at (630) 876-5900.

Volunteer Opportunities

Kline Creek Farm volunteers have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of 1890s farm activities and, in turn, help guests share in the experience. From cooking on the wood-burning stove to working with horses, volunteers are able to work in areas of specific interest. For more information, call Volunteer Services at (630) 933-7681.

Recreation

Fishing

Timber Lake is accessible from the main parking lot at Kline Creek Farm. A half-mile crushed limestone footpath leads visitors to the lake, which hosts a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie.

Picnicking

An open-air picnic area is near the visitor center. Reservations are not required for use of the area.

Trails

Timber Ridge has two miles of multipurpose trails and is a trailhead for the Great Western Trail and Illinois Prairie Path.
*Please note that pets are not allowed at Kline Creek Farm.

Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. The farmhouse, wagon shed, lower level of the barn and restrooms are well-suited for wheelchairs. 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.