Preservation

The 1,541-acre Hickory Creek Preserve was acquired between 1942 and 2010.

The preserve is part of the Hickory Creek preservation system, which conserves more than 2,000 acres of land.

The preserve is the District's largest individual preserve, and the majority of the land was acquired for a regional stormwater reservoir which was never constructed. This access area features the New Lenox Historical Society's historic one-room Schmuhl School.

A 559-acre portion of the site was dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve in 1998. This dedication provides permanent protection for the natural resources at the preserve.

Hickory Creek Barrens is one of three access areas to the preserve. The other access areas are Hickory Creek Junction and LaPorte Road Access, both in Mokena.

Natural Resources

Hickory Creek Barrens protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Hickory Creek.

Wildlife found at the preserve includes more than 50 bird species, such as the pileated woodpecker, yellow rumped warbler, brown creeper, and hermit thrush.

The nature preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including the largest population of the state-threatened savanna blazing star in Illinois, as well as the federally-threatened Mead’s milkweed.

The site is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and community restoration to protect and enhance its natural resources. Learn more about the District’s land management activities.

Due to the sensitivity of the site's natural resources, dogs are not allowed in the nature preserve.

Amenities and Activities

Trails

Hickory Creek Barrens provides access to the 3.68-mile, paved western segment of the Hickory Creek Bikeway, ideal for the following activities:

• Biking
• Hiking/Running
• In-Line Skating
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing

Hickory Creek Barrens also provides access via street routes to the 21-mile Old Plank Road Trail, a paved trail ideal for the following activities:

• Biking
• Hiking/Running
• In-Line Skating
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing

Download a map and guide to the Old Plank Road Trail.

Picnicking

Hickory Creek Barrens offers one picnic shelter for rental, Hickory Creek Barrens Shelter, with a permit capacity of 66 people. Learn more about picnic permits and fees.

Download a map of the amenities at Hickory Creek Preserve.

Programs and Events

Hickory Creek Barrens is home to the annual "Cruise the Creek" family bike ride and festival in October. View a video from the 2012 event on our YouTube Channel.

In addition, volunteer workdays are held throughout the year to assist in management of the site’s natural resources. View upcoming programs and events.

Photograph Courtesy of Mary T. Strand