Activities

WCFPD is Committed to Enabling All to Enjoy Forest Preserves
The Winnebago County Forest Preserve District invites people of all abilities to discover the benefits of recreation at our sites, facilities, and programs. If you need special accommodations in order to access a preserve or facility, please contact the ADA coordinator by calling WCFPD Headquarters 815/877-6100.

No matter what activities you intend to enjoy‚ proper planning and footwear will make a big difference in your personal comfort. During the summer season‚ insect and tick repellents are another must.

We also recommend you lock your car and place any valuables in the trunk.

Safety First
We are proud to say that our Preserves are safe environments. We need you to help us keep them that way. Please be alert‚ observant and caring while visiting the Preserves. Observe rules posted in nature preserves.

Protect the Flora and Fauna
The very name “Preserve” implies protection and freedom from harm. It is therefore unlawful to hunt‚ collect or injure any tree‚ shrub‚ flower or wildlife. Fish‚ the only exception‚ may be taken in accordance with posted regulations.

Stewardship
Help keep your forest preserves clean by using the trash receptacles provided.

Permits
A valid Illinois fishing license is required for on-site fishing. May through September‚ shelterhouses may be reserved; when not reserved‚ use is on a first come‚ first serve basis. Camping fees are required and will be collected on-site by District staff.

Equestrian 2012 Yearly Application

Flyfield Application for 2012 Flyfield applicants will get their picture taken.

Metal Detector Application for 2012 Metal Detector applicants will get their picture taken.

Public Use Hours
Preserves are open daily and public use ends nightly ½ hour after sunset. Most Preserve gates are locked nightly.

Conduct
Excessive noise or disruptive conduct will not be tolerated.

Preservation
It is unlawful to hunt‚ collect or injure any tree‚ shrub‚ flower or wildlife. Fish‚ the only exception‚ may be taken in accordance with posted regulations.

To help preserve the land’s beauty, use trash receptacles provided.

Fires and Firewood
Fires must be contained in grills and campfire rings provided‚ and properly extinguished before leaving the site. Cutting or gathering firewood from District lands is prohibited. Firewood cannot be brought in to the forest preserves due to the spread of the Emerald Ash Borerer.

Alcohol
Consumption of alcohol in areas not posted “No Alcohol” in the Preserves is allowed. Intoxication or drinking within 50 feet of a parked car is prohibited.

Pets
Pets are permitted in all Preserves except the Severson Dells Preserve. They must be accompanied and leashed at all times.

Water Safety
Swimming is prohibited in Preserve lakes and rivers. Life preservers are required for boating.

Camping
All campers must respect the “no excessive noise” ordinance. Any violations should be reported to the area ranger or the police.

No Hunting
If you observe anyone chasing or shooting deer or any other wildlife in the Preserves‚ report it immediately.

No Trespassing
Adjoining the Forest Preserves are private lands. Please respect the owners’ rights.

All visitors are subject to provisions of the Forest Preserve District “General Use Regulations” adopted March 8‚ 1990. Violation of any of these regulations may result in the revocation of privileges of the responsible individual(s). A copy of these regulations is posted in the Preserve Information Center.

For more information on these regulations‚ contact the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District Office for a General Use Regulation booklet:

5500 Northrock Drive‚ Rockford‚ IL, 61103 (815) 877-6100.