Monee Reservoir

Preserve history

The 248-acre Monee Reservoir was acquired between 1982 and 2006.

The preserve is part of the Rock Creek preservation system, which conserves more than 460 acres.

Prior to the District's acquisition of the land, its 46-acre lake was created and used by a railroad to supply water to steam engines.

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Natural resources

Monee Reservoir protects a 46-acre lake with associated wetland habitat.

Wildlife found at the preserve includes mink and more than 120 bird species.

The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including large-leaved pondweed.

Amenities and activities

Trails

Monee Reservoir features 1.66 miles of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:

• Hiking/running
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing 

Picnicking

The preserve offers two picnic shelters for rental:

• Bluegill Hill Shelter, which has a permit capacity of 200 people. 
• Catfish Corner Shelter, which has a permit capacity of 75 people.

The preserve also offers a picnic grove for rental, Monee Grove, which has a permit capacity of 100 people.

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Fishing

The preserve offers access to shoreline fishing on its 46-acre lake. The lake is stocked with bluegill, black crappie, largemouth bass and channel catfish. Catch-and -release fishing is encouraged, but daily limits are:

The Monee Reservoir Visitor Center offers fishing poles that can be checked out for free and fishing licenses for purchase. The visitor center also offers bait, tackle and snacks for sale.

Minnows must be purchased from the concessions building. The use of live crayfish is prohibited.

Check current fishing conditions at Monee Reservoir Tuesday through Sunday by calling 708-534-8499.

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Canoeing/kayaking

The preserve features a canoe/kayak launch on the lake. Personal canoes and kayaks may be launched. All Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) boating regulations are enforced.

Canoes and kayaks are also available for rental for use on the lake May 1-September 30. Life vests and paddles are included with the rental. Fishing is permitted from canoes and kayaks. Receive a free canoe or kayak rental after five identical rentals with a "Monee Madness" card, available at the visitor center. 

All persons in a rented canoe or kayak at Monee Reservoir must wear a personal flotation device at all times. Learn more about canoeing/kayaking in the forest preserves and rental fees.

Boating

The Monee Reservoir Visitor Center typically offers rowboat rentals April 1-October 31 and pedalboat rentals May 1-September 30. Boats are rented on a first-come, first-served basis. All Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) boating regulations are enforced. Receive a free boat rental after five identical rentals with a "Monee Madness" card, available at the visitor center.

Fishing is permitted from rowboats. Life vests, oars and paddles are included with each boat rental. Trolling motors, trolling motor batteries and anchors are also available for rental.

Monee Reservoir allows personal small fishing boats on the lake, but only boats that can be transported in or on top of a vehicle and carried or rolled by hand cart to the lake are permitted. There is no boat trailer parking or boat launch at the preserve.

Geocaching

Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve. 

Visitor center

The Monee Reservoir Visitor Center offers rowboats, pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, fishing poles and sport items for rental. It also offers fishing licenses; bait and tackle; snacks; and picnic permits.