Top 16 Lakes around Downers Grove
Best lakes around Downers Grove are situated in Illinois, offering various natural preserves and water features. The area is characterized by a mix of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, providing diverse outdoor recreational opportunities. Several lakes and ponds, including those within forest preserves and community parks, contribute to the region's natural appeal. These water bodies offer settings for activities like fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.
Best lakes around Downers Grove
- The most popular lakes is Whalon Lake Park, a lake…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve
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Whalon Lake Park
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Hidden Lakes Park (Hidden Lakes Trout Farm)
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Meadow Lake Picnic Area
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North Island
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West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve features shaded trails and a route alongside the West Branch DuPage River. It's a quiet, straightforward spot for a relaxing ride or a short break.
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Hidden Lakes Park is a functional trout farm with multiple small lakes. There is a trail that runs through Hidden Lakes to connect the trail around Whalon Lake to the DuPage River Greenway.
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Whalon Lake Park encompasses a mosaic of habitats - prairie, wetlands, an 80-acre lake, and the DuPage River. This diversity supports abundant wildlife like waterfowl and ducks. Native plant species flourish here such as red mulberry and wild leek. Wander through Whalon Lake's landscapes to discover its many natural riches.
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North Island in Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve is a charming small island nestled in the midst of Salt Creek. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with available picnic shelters, offering a perfect setting to relax, take in the views, and even set up your fishing pole.
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After your run, enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the scenic Meadow Lake. Find a spot to unpack your picnic and take in the natural beauty surrounding you. Gaze at the lush grasses and wildflowers fringing the tranquil waters. Listen to birdsong and the gentle breeze rustling through. Let the bright blooms and verdant landscape soothe you as you refuel. With its idyllic meadow views, this is an ideal spot to pause, picnic, and appreciate the splendor of nature here at Morton Arboretum.
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West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve is a green forested area right on the West Branch DuPage River. This preserve's hours are one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Dogs are allowed here but must be on leashes under 10 feet long. Alcohol is prohibited. Other activities, besides running and hiking, include boating and fishing.
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The West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve is a 713-acre nature preserve in Bartlett. It has a variety of habitats along the river that help promote a biodiversity of plants and animals. Be on the lookout for reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds, including grassland birds and migrating and nesting shorebirds.
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After your hike, enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the scenic Meadow Lake. Find a spot to unpack your picnic and take in the natural beauty surrounding you. Gaze at the lush grasses and wildflowers fringing the tranquil waters. Listen to birdsong and the gentle breeze rustling through. Let the bright blooms and verdant landscape soothe you as you refuel. With its idyllic meadow views, this is an ideal spot to pause, picnic, and appreciate the splendor of nature here at Morton Arboretum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Downers Grove are best for fishing?
Several lakes in the area are popular for fishing. Tomahawk Slough is particularly appreciated by fishing enthusiasts. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, featuring Round Meadow Lake and Eagle Lake, offers diverse fishing for bass, bluegill, crappie, and more. Barth Pond at Patriots Park is also a popular fishing spot.
Are there lakes suitable for boating or kayaking near Downers Grove?
Yes, you can enjoy non-motorized boating at several locations. Round Meadow Lake within Hidden Lake Forest Preserve allows canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards with a Forest Preserve District permit. Prince Pond also permits non-motorized boating, offering a tranquil experience. Additionally, West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve allows boating on the West Branch DuPage River.
What lakes are good for families with children?
Many lakes around Downers Grove are family-friendly. Prince Pond features a playground and picnic tables, and is popular for ice skating in winter. Barth Pond at Patriots Park also offers a large playground and picnic shelter. Whalon Lake Park and West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve are also noted as family-friendly destinations with various activities.
Where can I find walking or hiking trails near the lakes?
Hidden Lake Forest Preserve offers over two miles of trails, including the Eagle Lake Trail and Round Meadow Lake Trail, perfect for hiking and jogging. West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve also provides trails for running and hiking. Brookeridge Lake Park and Bruce Lake Park are known for their scenic walking and running trails.
Are there any lakes where I can observe wildlife?
Absolutely. Whalon Lake Park is known for its diverse habitats supporting abundant wildlife, including waterfowl and ducks. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve is excellent for birdwatching and wildlife observation, and West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve promotes biodiversity, allowing you to spot reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and various birds.
What winter activities are available at the lakes?
Prince Pond is a popular spot for ice skating and informal hockey games during the winter months, offering a community-focused outdoor experience when conditions allow.
Are there any lakes with picnic facilities?
Yes, several lakes offer picnic areas. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve provides numerous picnic tables and a reservable 50-person picnic shelter. Prince Pond has picnic tables and a shelter near its playground. Barth Pond at Patriots Park also features a picnic shelter with tables near the eastern shoreline. Meadow Lake Picnic Area is also an ideal spot for a picnic.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
At West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve, dogs are allowed but must be on leashes under 10 feet long. Always check specific preserve or park regulations for other locations.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The Downers Grove area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find easy cycling loops like the "Whalon Lake Park – Whalon Lake Park loop" from Woodridge. For gravel biking, routes like "Silver Lake Lakeside View – Mount Hoy Summit loop" are available. Mountain biking trails, such as the "Waterfall Glen Main Trail," are also nearby. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Downers Grove, Gravel biking around Downers Grove, and MTB Trails around Downers Grove guides.
What natural features make Hidden Lake Forest Preserve unique?
Hidden Lake Forest Preserve is notable for its King's Grove, a remnant woodland of red, white, and bur oaks. It's also one of the few places in the county where you can hear spring peepers in wooded ponds, showcasing a diverse range of habitats from woodlands to wetlands and prairie.
Are there any lakes that are part of a larger park or preserve?
Yes, many lakes are integrated into larger natural areas. Round Meadow Lake and Eagle Lake are within the 390-acre Hidden Lake Forest Preserve. Barth Pond is located within Patriots Park. Whalon Lake Park encompasses an 80-acre lake within a mosaic of prairie and wetlands. West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve is a 713-acre preserve along the West Branch DuPage River.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Downers Grove?
The lakes offer beauty and activities year-round. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer is perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking. In winter, Prince Pond becomes a popular spot for ice skating when conditions permit.
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