Preservation

The 320-acre Rock Run Preserve was acquired between 1990 and 2009.

The preserve is part of the Rock Run preservation system, which conserves more than 1,450 acres of land.

A 168-acre portion of the site was registered as an Illinois Land and Water Reserve in 2003 and 2005. This registration provides permanent protection for the natural resources at the preserve.

Black Road Access is one of two access areas to the preserve. The other access area is Paul V. Nichols Access in Joliet.

Natural Resources

Rock Run Preserve protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run.

Wildlife found at the preserve includes the snapping turtle, Chicago garter snake, and more than 100 bird species.

The preserve is also home to more than 500 plant species, including the violet, buttercup, mint, and aster.

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.

Amenities and Activities

Trails

Black Road Access features 0.52 mile of crushed limestone trail, ideal for the following activities:

• Hiking/Running
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing

Black Road Access also provides access to the 9.93-mile, paved Rock Run Greenway Trail, ideal for the following activities:

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

The Rock Run Greenway Trail connects to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ crushed limestone I&M Canal State Trail and the 4.36-mile, paved Joliet Junction Trail to provide a 16-mile, mostly paved loop trail. Download a map of the Rock Run Greenway Trail-Joliet Junction Trail loop.

Picnicking

Black Road Access offers one picnic shelter for rental, Black Road Access Shelter, with a permit capacity of 60 people. Learn more about picnic permits and fees.

Fishing

Black Road Access offers access to shoreline fishing on a quarry pond within the preserve. Statewide and District regulations apply. Learn more about fishing in the forest preserves.

Geocaching

Permits are available for geocaching at this Black Road Access. Learn more about geocaching permits.

Photograph Courtesy of Ron Molk