McDonald Woods Forest Preserve

Welcome to McDonald Woods Forest Preserve located in northern Lake County, Illinois near the town of Lindenhurst.

Preserve History: The land that is now McDonald Woods Forest Preserve was named for it’s previous owner, a man named A.B. McDonald who purchased the land in the 1940’s and created a private nature preserve by building three lakes and planting many pine trees. The Forest Preserve District purchased the land from him in the 1970s.

Flora and Fauna: McDonald Woods Forest Preserve helps protect the home of numerous plant and animals species. Some of the plants that grow inside the preserve boundaries include gray-headed coneflowers, pines, and bergamots. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include squirrels, raccoons, ducks, cardinals, chickadees, hawks, and coyotes. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors this preserve boasts over four miles of multipurpose trails and so much more. Come on out and explore!