Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve is a popular site located in a rolling wooded area near Mahomet, Illinois. This beautiful preserve occupies almost 900 acres along the corridor of the Sangamon River. Highlighting Lake of the Woods are several well-known attractions: the Early American Museum, Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden, and Lake of the Woods Golf Course.

Located 10 miles west of Champaign-Urbana, Lake of the Woods Preserve is easily accessible from Interstate 74, exit #174 or #172. It also offers fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, cross-country skiing, sledding, the HI-Tower bell carillon and observation area, building rentals and educational programs.

The Early American Museum has an extensive collection interpreting 19th- and early 20th-century life in east-central Illinois. Two floors of exhibits present architecture, agriculture, trades and occupations, decorative arts, and childhood and domestic life of the time. The Discovery Room offers hands-on opportunities for children, and educational programs are offered for all ages throughout the year.

Located just off State Route 47 is the Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden, which boasts some of the most beautiful and diverse flora in east-central Illinois. Many a couple have exchanged their wedding vows in this colorful setting. Its All-America Selections Display Garden features the newest and best bedding plants.

A favorite location for golfers is the Lake of the Woods Golf Course, which was designed by Robert Bruce Harris. Besides the award-winning 18-hole regulation course, there is a 9-hole Par 3 course and a practice range. These courses were designed with every age and ability level in mind.

Another attraction at Lake of the Woods is a 3.3-mile bike/pedestrian path that stretches the entire length of the park. It receives considerable use by walkers, bikers, rollerbladers and others. Make sure to check it out on your next visit!

One of the most impressive and recognizable facilities within the park is the HI-Tower. For four decades now, visitors from miles around have come to admire and ascend the six-story structure, which was named after the founder of the Forest Preserve District, the late H.I. Gelvin. A popular feature of the tower is the bell carillon, which is programmed to play music throughout the day. Children, especially, find the HI-Tower captivating and consider it a "must" for any visit to Lake of the Woods.

* Please note there is no longer a swimming beach at Lake of the Woods. There is still swimming available at our Middle Fork River Forest Preserve in Penfield.