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< Back Two Rivers 12251 Harrison Road, Durand, IL 61024 Two Rivers is one of the District’s smaller preserves and is used primarily for canoe access to the Pecatonica and Sugar Rivers. Other recreational opportunities include picnicking and fishing. Accessible from Harrison Road. Acres: 6.5 Access Road: Yes Restrooms: Yes Drinking Water: Yes Picnic Tables: Yes Shelterhouses: Small non-reservable shelter Playground Equipment: No Ball Fields: No Horseback Trails: No Hiking Trails(miles): 0.0 Campground Sites: No Boat Launch: 1 Canoe Launch: Yes 18 Hole Golf Course: No Illinois Nature Preserve: No Special Facilities: No Donated Land: No Natural Areas: No All reservations subject to the GENERAL USE ORDINANCE. Previous Next

< Back Ferguson 8602 West Winslow Road, Shirland, IL 61079 Ferguson Forest Preserve’s 529 acres provides valuable wildlife habitat and is home to several threatened plant species and about 150 species of birds. Located at the confluence of the Sugar River and Pecatonica Rivers, it is one of the best migratory bird locations in the county. A diversity of waterfowl can be seen including Sandhill cranes, and several different species of ducks. Bald eagles, owls and songbirds are often seen here. There are many wet and open water areas, restored prairie, and some woodland. Ferguson’s low-lying floodplain habitat often floods after heavy rain and snowmelt. At present there is one perimeter hiking trail which offers interpretive signage about the ecology, history and wildlife of this river confluence. Acquired in 2014, the preserve is under development. Seasonal Highlights: Ferguson Forest Preserve is a prime spot for observing waterfowl and wading birds during spring and fall migrations. In spring a frog chorus calls fill the air and in summer the prairie blooms with an array of native flowers and shelters nesting grassland birds. Acres: 529.3 Access Road: Yes Restrooms: Yes Drinking Water: No Picnic Tables: No Shelterhouses: No Playground Equipment: No Ball Fields: No Horseback Trails: No Hiking Trails(miles): 3.1 Campground Sites: No Boat Launch: No Canoe Launch: No 18 Hole Golf Course: No Illinois Nature Preserve: No Donated Land: Yes Natural Areas: Yes Previous Next

< Back Kishwaukee Gorge North 4643 Blackhawk Road, Cherry Valley, IL 61016 Kishwaukee Gorge Forest Preserve (North) contains some of the most interesting geology in Winnebago County. It offers a hiker’s paradise of diverse woodlands, prairie openings and rugged ravines. This preserve is home to a restored prairie, deep forest with large, statuesque twisted oak trees, and steep-sided gorges leading down to a peaceful opening on the Kishwaukee River. Nearly three miles of relatively easy hiking trail consist of mowed grass around the prairie, and a rather rugged dirt path in the forest. The trail becomes a bit challenging when climbing down and up the fifty or so steep, man-made steps along the side of the gorge that lead to its bottom, and the Kishwaukee River. Seasonal Highlights at Kishwaukee Gorge North A high up fenced lookout provides nice summer views out over the gorge. Sit down on the bench here and relax up in the tops of the trees with the birds, the river just visible deep down through the thick forestry. Late summer is peak bloom for the diverse prairie flowers, and fall prairie grasses offer a tapestry of rich color and texture. The fall foliage is spectacular. The golden leaves of maples, the russets of old oaks, red sumac, set against a background of sparkling blue river. In winter, cross-county skiing may be enjoyed on Kishwaukee Gorge’s mowed trails. All FPWC cross-country ski trails are ungroomed. The access road allows room for skiers to park their cars off the roadway in front of the locked gates. Acres: 127.6 Access Road: Yes Restrooms: Yes Drinking Water: No Picnic Tables: Yes Shelterhouses: No Playground Equipment: No Ball Fields: No Horseback Trails: No Hiking Trails(miles): 3.1 Campground Sites: No Boat Launch: No Canoe Launch: No 18 Hole Golf Course: No Illinois Nature Preserve: No Special Facilities: No Donated Land: No Natural Areas: Yes All reservations subject to the GENERAL USE ORDINANCE. Previous Next

< Back Trask Bridge 11532 Trask Bridge Road, Rockford, IL 61101 Trask Bridge is 15-acres along the Pecatonica River and is a favorite for picnicking and fishing. Also provides a boat launch and canoe access to river but not in the oxbow. Acres: 15 Access Road: Yes Restrooms: Yes Drinking Water: Yes Picnic Tables: Yes Shelterhouses: 1 Coffee Tree: Wood shelter, 80 max. people, 8 tables, 48 seats, No electricity, No vehicle access. Playground Equipment: No Ball Fields: No Horseback Trails: No Hiking Trails(miles): 0.0 Campground Sites: No Boat Launch: 1 Canoe Launch: Yes 18 Hole Golf Course: No Illinois Nature Preserve: No Special Facilities: Fishing Area, Artesian Well Donated Land: Yes Natural Areas: No All reservations subject to the GENERAL USE ORDINANCE Previous Next

The scenic beauty and outstanding wildlife within the forest preserves makes them extremely popular destinations for photographers. Nature photography is a great way to connect with and learn about our natural communities and the plants and animals they support. Commercial Photography and Videography Policy The scenic beauty and outstanding wildlife within the forest preserves makes them extremely popular destinations for photographers. Nature photography is a great way to connect with and learn about our natural communities and the plants and animals they support. We hope you will visit year round to enjoy and capture special moments. To protect the quality of the preserves and the visitors’ experiences, undertaking commercial photography and videography projects in the preserves requires a permit and compliance with the rules below . Photography Permit Personal Photography - Where photos captured in the forest preserves are for personal enjoyment and will not be copied, distributed, or offered for the purpose of payment. This does not require a permit. Commerical Photography - Where photos captured in the forest preserves are used for commercial or re-sale purposes. This type of photography might consist of; family portraits, student or school event pictures, wedding pictures, where a photographer is being compensated for their work or work is being offered for sale, which was performed on forest preserve property. This requires a permit. Photography Rules Photography must be conducted during normal preserve use hours. No photographer has exclusive rights to any preserve location. Be courteous to other preserve users. Do not block or obstruct roadways, bridges, parking lots, paths, trails, buildings, or structures in any ways that prevents normal use by people and vehicles. The use of temporary ground blinds is permissible as long as they are occupied and clearly marked with a permit copy affixed to the outside, viewable by staff and the public. No blinds may be left unattended. Do not disturb, move, or cut any plants, trees or bushes, regardless of whether they are living or dead. Do not disturb, chase or pursue wildlife. Any wildlife nesting season or caring for their young must be avoided. No baiting. Nothing in photograph should be recognizable as a Forest Preserve logo, sign, vehicle, structure, building, or employee without prior approval by Executive Director. Recognize that all other forest preserve rules and ordinances, State and Federal laws are in effect and apply at all times while conducting this activity in the forest preserves. All other requests may be considered by the Executive Director

The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County invites you to participate in the planning for the future of your forest preserves by completing this Community Survey. Even if you are not familiar with the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County, your perspective is valuable, and we welcome your input. Community Survey Thank you for participating in planning the future of your forest preserves Between February 1 and April 30, 2026, the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County gathered input from the community to shape its Strategic Plan by taking a Community Survey. The results from this survey can be viewed by clicking the button below. VIEW SURVEY RESULTS Why did the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County implement a Community Survey? In the coming year, the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County will begin the process of developing a Strategic Plan. A Strategic Plan is a blueprint for future growth and development and will guide our leadership and Board of Commissioners as we move forward. The Community Survey was the first step in the development of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County’s Strategic Plan. The Community Survey acted as a way for the community to share their input and communicate their vision for the future of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County. The data from this survey will help identify the wants, needs, and values of our community, and help the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County establish key goals and objectives for the agency. This process is essential to the development of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County’s Strategic Plan. How do I get involved in the planning process? Attend monthly board meetings Public participation is an essential portion of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County board meetings. Board meetings are held the third Wednesday of the month, and agendas are posted the Friday prior to the meeting. Click here for more information and a complete list of 2026 Board Meetings . If you have feedback or input about the Community Survey, the Strategic Plan, or the planning process, please complete the form below. Contact us First name Last name Email Write a message Submit

Snowmobiling is an exciting and popular winter pastime and is allowed in five of the forest preserves. Snowmobiles are allowed on designated trails only when four inches of snow cover is on 80% of the designated trail. Snowmobiling Snowmobiling Snowmobiling is an exciting and popular winter pastime and is allowed in five of the forest preserves. Pecatonica Wetlands, Pecatonica River, Four Lakes, Sugar River and Seward Bluffs are available for snowmobiling. Snowmobiles are allowed on designated trails only when four inches of snow cover is on 80% of the designated trail. Snowmobiling is not allowed at other forest preserves and is at the operator’s own risk. Snowmobiles are allowed on designated trails in these preserves: Pecatonica River Pecatonica Wetlands Four Lakes Sugar River Seward Bluffs Snowmobiles cannot be on the trails after 10 PM. Refer to our policy . Winter recreation (cross-country skiers, snow shoe, skating, and sledding) are allowed in the preserves after dark. Cross-country skiing and sledding are not allowed on the golf courses. Although some of the preserve gates will be locked, many of the access roads allow room for skiers to park their cars off the roadway in front of the locked gates including: Kieselburg, Hononegah, Kishwaukee River (west), Seward Bluffs, Sugar River, Pecatonica River, Deer Run and Kishwaukee Gorge. Gates will be open at Oak Ridge and Blackhawk Springs (Mulford).

Four Lakes Forest Preserve has a sporting dog training area that is open year round located at 10180 Trask Bridge Road (Highway 70), Pecatonica, IL 61063. Required on-site day use registration at no charge. Sporting Dog Training Four Lakes Forest Preserve has a sporting dog training area that is open year round located at 10180 Trask Bridge Road (Highway 70), Pecatonica, IL 61063. Required on-site day use registration at no charge. Follow rules and regulations posted. • Dogs may be off leash for training. • Open sunrise to sunset year round. • No motorized vehicles allowed beyond parking lot except to load & unload and must stay on road or trails. • Blank guns may be use. ABSOLUTELY NO LIVE AMMUNITION OR HUNTING ALLOWED. • Dogs must stay within the marked training boundaries. • Owners are soley responsible for their dog(s) and their behavior. • This property is unsupervised and is to be left in its naturalized state Dogs should be kept within training posted boundary signs. 25 acres of upland field training area and 1/2 acre pond for retriever training. This is a great area for those wanting to run and train their sporting breed pointers, flushers, and retrievers

We are hiring! Click here to view open job positions within the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County. Employment Opportunities Employment The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County is dedicated to protecting, conserving, enhancing, and promoting Winnebago County's natural heritage for the environmental, educational, and recreational benefit of present and future generations. Full-Time Employment North Area Ranger This entry-level position serves as a caretaker of the forest preserves with responsibility for maintenance, cleanliness, safety, and accessibility of green space. Provides customer service as one of the first points of contact for preserve visitors and assists the Senior Ranger and Area Manager with preserve operations as needed. Typical winter hours are weekdays from 7:00 a.m.– 3:30 p.m. with no weekends (except for on-call snowplowing on a rotating basis). Summer hours are weekdays from 6:00 a.m.– 2:30 p.m., with rotating weekends and holidays required. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . 2026 Seasonal Employment Campground Attendant - Sugar River Forest Preserve Campgrounds Serves as an informational source to the public with respect to the campground, activities within the preserve, and community attractions. Represents the Forest Preserve District in a positive manner and maintains a working knowledge of rules and regulations in order to effectively communicate and educate campground customers. Processes Point of Sale (P.O.S.) transactions with campground customers, monitors reservations and campground activity. The typical season is mid-April to mid-November. Weekends and Holidays required, with scheduled hours falling primarily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, between 7:00am and 10:30pm. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Campground Host - Hononegah Forest Preserve Campgrounds Serves as an informational source to the public with respect to the preserve, activities within the preserve, and community attractions. Represents the Forest Preserve District in a positive manner and maintains a working knowledge of rules and regulations. The typical season is mid-April to mid-November. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Food & Beverage Associate Promotes and maintains proper food handling and preparation procedures at District golf courses (prepping, cooking and/or storing food) following rules and regulations as set forth by the State of Illinois and the Winnebago County Health Department. Work hours may vary, and include weekdays, evenings, weekends and holidays. A forty-hour work week is not guaranteed, and is dependent upon weather conditions and workload. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Golf Cashier Registers golfers for play; rents District golf carts; sells golf merchandise; operates computerized point of sale system; performs all duties in a helpful and courteous manner. Work hours may vary, and may include weekdays, evenings, weekends and holidays. A forty-hour work week is not guaranteed, depending on weather conditions and workload. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Golf Outside Attendant Performs routine manual labor tasks as assigned including but not limited to repairing ball-marks, weeding clubhouse area and beds, general cleaning and maintenance of clubhouse interior and exterior, and establishing driving range hitting stations as directed. Work hours may vary, and may include weekdays, evenings, weekends and holidays. A forty-hour work week is not guaranteed, depending on weather conditions and workload. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Natural Resource Assistant Works to restore the ecological conditions that promote and preserve native plant and animal communities in the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County's prairies, wetlands and woodlands. A forty-hour work week is not guaranteed, and is dependent on weather conditions and workload. Typical workdays are Monday – Friday, 6:00a.m. - 2:30p.m., although an occasional Saturday or overtime work may be required. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Preserve Maintenance - South Area Performs routine unskilled manual labor tasks as assigned, including but not limited to mowing, trimming brush, picking up litter, and cleaning facilities. A forty-hour work week is not guaranteed and is dependent on weather conditions and workload—some weekend and holiday work is required. Typical hours are weekdays 6:00 a.m.- 2:30 p.m./rotating weekends 5:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. View the complete job description here . Apply for the position here . Follow Us on Instagram: Find Us On @winnebagoforest ©2023 by Off The Hook. Proudly created with Wix.com Site Rules FAQ 5500 Northrock Drive | Rockford, IL 61103 Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm Tel: 815-877-6100 Email: FPWC@winnebagoforest.org

The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County invites people of all abilities to discover the benefits of recreation. If you need special accommodations in order to access a preserve or facility, please contact the ADA coordinator by calling FPWC Headquarters 815-877-6100, or e-mail fpwc@winnebagoforest.org. Accessibility Statement FPWC is Committed to Enabling All to Enjoy Forest Preserves! The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County 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 one of our two ADA Coordinators: Jody Kennay, jkennay@winnebagoforest.org Vaughn Stamm, vstamm@winnebagoforest.org Notice Under the Americans with Disabilities Act In accordance with the requirements of title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”), the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs, or activities Employment In accordance with the requirements of title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”), the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs, or activities Modifications to Policies and Procedures The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County will make all reasonable modifications to policies and programs to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy all of its programs, services, and activities. For example, individuals with service animals are welcomed in the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County’s facilities, even where pets are generally prohibited. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County should contact the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County's Administrative Office (5500 Northrock Drive, Rockford, IL 61103) at 815-877 6100 or fpwc@winnebagoforest.org as soon as possible but not later than 48 hours before the scheduled event. The ADA does not require the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County to take any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs or services or impose an undue financial or administrative burden. Complaints that a program, service, or activity of the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County is not accessible to persons with disabilities should be directed to one of the District’s Accessibility Coordinators: Jody Kennay, jkennay@winnebagoforest.org Vaughn Stamm, vstamm@winnebagoforest.org Complaints may also be directed to 815-877-6100 or fpwc@winnebagoforest.org . The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County will not place a surcharge on a particular individual with a disability or any group of individuals with disabilities to cover the cost of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modifications of policy.

The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County have a variety of activities and sights to see. If you need further assistance or information, please reach out to us! Our Team The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County (FPWC) is made up of approximately 34 full-time employees and 1 part-time employee. FPWC administration operates out of one administrative office located at Headquarters Forest Preserve, 5500 Northrock Drive, Rockford, IL 61103. To view a comprehensive organizational chart for the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County, click here . Daniel Olson Executive Director dolson@winnebagoforest.org 815-877-6100 Fax: 815-877-6124 Vaughn Stamm Director of Operations vstamm@winnebagoforest.org 815-877-6100 Jody Kennay Human Resources Manager jkennay@winnebagoforest.org 815-877-6100 Kristy Knapp Administrative Services Manager kknapp@winnebagoforest.org 815-877-6100 Mike Brien Director of Natural Resources mbrien@winnebagoforest.org 815-516-2654 Mike Groves Natural Resources Manager mgroves@winnebagoforest.org 815-516-2671 Keith Krey Stewardship Coordinator kkrey@winnebagoforest.org 815-516-2655 Wildlife Biologist Sarah Lorenz Communications Coordinator slorenz@winnebagoforest.org 815-516-2658 Bryan Helmold Building & Mechanical Operations Manager bhelmold@winnebagoforest.org 815-516-2670 Scott Wallace South Area Manager swallace@winnebagoforest.org Matt Weik North Area Manager mweik@winnebagoforest.org Bobby VanSistine Golf Course General Manager bvansistine@winnebagoforest.org 815-623-2411 Rose Mathews Golf Course Food & Beverage Manager rmathews@winnebagoforest.org 815-389-9242 Mark Freiman Golf Maintenance Manager Atwood Homestead & Macktown Golf Courses mfreiman@winnebagoforest.org Tyler Knapp Golf Maintenance Manager Ledges & Macktown Golf Courses tknapp@winnebagoforest.org 815-389-1258 Contact Us: The Forest Preserves of Winnebago County have a variety of activities and sights to see. If you need further assistance or information, please reach out to us! Special Event Request Form Submit Thanks for submitting!

Plan your picnic or family reunion now. Schedule your summer event in the beautiful, relaxing, natural setting of a forest preserve. Twenty-three shelterhouse facilities are available in 17 different preserves. A shelterhouse reservation requires a fee and covers the entire day, from 7:00 AM until sunset. Shelterhouses Shelterhouse rentals close for the season on November 18, 2026. Schedule your event in the beautiful and natural setting of a forest preserve! Twenty-three shelterhouse facilities are available in 17 different preserves. A shelterhouse reservation requires a fee and covers the entire day, from 7:00 a.m. until sunset. Shelterhouses can be reserved below or at the Forest Preserve District office at 5500 Northrock Drive, Rockford, IL 61103. Reservations open on the first Monday in February online and at the Forest Preserve District office starting at 8:00am for the following season. Shelter house Policy A credit card convenience fee of 3% will be applied to all transactions Atwood Homestead River Oaks Resident Fee: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 24 Seating: 144 No Electric Reserve Atwood Homestead Old Settlers Resident Fee: $110.00 Non-Resident Fee: $135.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 21 Seating: 126 No Electric Reserve Blackhawk Springs Indian Springs Resident Fee: $125.00 Non-Resident Fee: $155.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 25 Seating: 150 Electric Reserve Espenscheid Memorial Shady Oaks Resident : $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 8 Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve Four Lakes Lake View Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 4 - 12ft Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve Hononegah Bird Grove Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: 110.00 Max People: 70 Tables: 7 Seating: 42 No Electric Reserve Hononegah Indian Rest Resident Fee: $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 200 Tables: 21 Seating: 126 Electric Reserve Hononegah Towering Pines Resident : $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 21 Seating: 126 Electric Reserve Kieselburg Black Willow Springs Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 200 Tables: 24 Seating: 144 No Electric Reserve Kieselburg Redcedar Ridge Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 200 Tables: 21 Seating: 126 No Electric Reserve Kilbuck Bluffs Edgewood Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 100 Tables: 10 Seating: 60 No Electric Reserve Kishwaukee River Fort Vincennes Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 8 Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve Kishwaukee River Sleepy Hollow Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 150 Tables: 22 Seating: 132 No Electric Reserve Laona Heights Ironwood Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 50 Tables: 4 Seating: 24 No Electric Reserve Macktown Highland Resident: $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 200 Tables: 21 Seating: 126 Electric Reserve Pecatonica River Highview Resident: $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 25 Seating: 150 Electric Reserve Pecatonica Wetlands Arrowhead Resident: $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 16 - 12ft Seating: 192 Electric Reserve Roland Olson Stuga Resident: $125.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 300 Tables: 24 Seating: 144 Electric Reserve Severson Dells Prairie Knoll Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $155.00 Max People: 200 Tables: 25 Seating: 150 No Electric Reserve Seward Bluffs Oak Ridge Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 8 Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve Sugar River River View Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 8 Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve Sugar River Sand Bluff Resident: $110.00 Non-Resident: $135.00 Max People: 132 Tables: 16 Seating: 96 No Electric Reserve Trask Bridge Coffee Tree Resident: $85.00 Non-Resident: $110.00 Max People: 80 Tables: 8 Seating: 48 No Electric Reserve