West Branch
West Branch Forest Preserve was originally purchased to help with flood control in the surrounding community. The preserve contains a reservoir that collects storm water and provides natural filtering for improved water quality. But the benefits of this preserve go far beyond that.
Made up of two lakes, wetlands, tall-grass meadow, wet prairie, immature floodplain forest, and afen, this preserve hosts a variety of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and numerous species of birds, including grassland birds and migrating and nesting shorebirds.
Education
The Forest Preserve District regularly offers basic canoeing and kayaking instruction at West Branch. In addition, other nature, conservation, and leisure-activity programs are offered at other preserves throughout the district.
Recreation
Fishing
Two lakes are located within the preserve: the 40-acre Deep Quarry Lake and the 15-acre Bass Lake. Deep Quarry Lake has a maximum depth of 45 feet; Bass Lake's lowest point is 30 feet. Both lakes contain bass, sunfish, channel and flathead catfish, carp, bluegill and crappie. Two fishing piers at Deep Quarry Lake are accessible to visitors with impaired mobility and provide anglers with easy access to the water. The West Branch of the DuPage River also snakes through the preserve for over two miles, offering scenic beauty for all preserve users in addition to the ample opportunities for fishing. 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.
Picnicking
Numerous picnic tables are available just off the parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis. Also, latrines and a water pump are located nearby for visitors’ convenience.
Trails
A 1.6-mile multipurpose trail ideal for hiking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding winds through the preserve and connects to the trail in Hawk Hollow Preserve.
Accessibility: The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Two fishing piers at Deep Quarry Lake are accessible to visitors with impaired mobility. 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.