We absolutely love this place. A small forest preserve along the shores of Lake Michigan. Good for hiking,biking and even cross country skiing. The beach is rocky which makes for great rock collecting and bird watching. There is a small parking lot which fills up quickly especially on the weekend. Ft. Sheridan is rich in history dating back to the Great Chicago Fire. Definitely a hidden gem in Illinois. read more

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This is a lovely spot to feel cool breezes off the lake on a hot summer day. We enjoyed walking the beach, bird watching and all the native wildflowers. read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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Came on Sunday before Memorial day and was raining in the morning so it was a bit muddy in some part of the trail. Beautiful stony beach area and lookout points. Parking space could get full on busy days. Lots of bird spotting. We did a 2mile round trip walk but there are shorter routes. read more

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I stopped by in the afternoon and was surprised to see a lot of the brush had been cleared away for a much better view of the lake. There were more people here (it must be spring) and I saw that the restrooms had been rebuilt (burnt down in fall) and didn't have that horrible smell. There are now permit parking regulations in place around Fort Sheridan residences so beware parking there if the lot is full. read more

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The ground and beach is beautiful! Good luck getting to find sea glass, which is what we were excited about. The beach closes at dark and they have an unprofessional park ranger who comes around and scream at you. They allow the people who live there though to continue to be at the beach, so just keep that in mind. Non friendly attitudes around the grounds. It's odd when you were raised in the south. All and all it's pretty. If you are looking for a sunset photo, go else where or they'll threaten to arrest you. read more

The wife and I were in the area, and she wanted to drive by a beach quickly. We originally stopped at an annex of the Park, but thankfully, they had signs indicating that you had to go to the main entrance. The main entrance was about 1.5 miles away from the annex. Parking was a little challenging, as when we arrived, there was no parking available. We walked around in circles, waiting for people to leave to park. Outside of that, it was a very nice walk to the beach, but it was more rocky than sand. It does have a couple of trails to hike as well. read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is one of our FAVORITE spots on the North Shore. There's a wonderful paved bath that you can either walk or bike your way all the way down to the lake, where you will find a wonderful rock beach. My boys absolutely love exploring for different rocks and even sea glass. To take the path, start at the corner or Old Elm and Sheridan Roads. (Grab a Starbucks across the street and make a morning stroll of it.) While you're strolling along, there's a HUGE bird's nest that the kids can explore. It was a weekly destination when my boys were toddlers. Be sure to go to the new lookout point that gives you a view of the lake from the top of the bluff. There are several benches for you to rest and just take a few moments. I've even seen folks bring their folding chair and set up to read for a bit there. There's also a wonderful nature walk (about 2 miles long) that loops around the meadow of the forest preserve, heads past the military cemetery and ends with a fun bridge that goes over the ravine. At the beginning of the trail near the parking lot, you might see the Hawk Watch folks - they count how many hawks migrate through this part of the world. Many of them are happy to let you look through their telescope that might be set up. Not looking for a lot of walking? Again, there's a parking lot inside Fort Sheridan so you can easily take a short stroll on down to the beach. Dogs are welcome - just make sure they're on a leash. read more

Been here many times now and I love it. Only 4 stars due to the limited parking. Recently remolded parking lot and bathrooms. Plenty of hiking trails with spectacular views of Lake Michigan and two beautiful ravines plus a 1.7 miles extra wide trail through the prairie. You can also take a small hike down to a small beach where there is no swimming or wading but no one reads the signs. The beach is rocky but it doesn't stop anyone from spreading out for the day. This place is no longer a 'secret'. Today we hiked in the Prairie and then had a picnic lunch at one of the very few picnic tables. Its was 45 degrees sunny and great! read more

BEAUTIFUL waterfront hike! This forest preserve is clean, well marked, scenic, and fun! Pet friendly, gorgeous water front views, and fun historical facts scattered throughout. Lots of fun looking for seaglass along the beach. This is a walking beach, not swimming. Adequate parking throughout. There are some steep incline/declines so just be aware if your physical abilities! read more

My wife seems to be drawn here more so than I am. I still am not sure I fully understand it (my fault no doubt and will own that). A military public mix use of land, that includes nature, lake shore, trails, hiking, random satellite parking sites, close enough to the Metra train to actually be accessible if you don't mind a nice walk, and when you are all done exploring, it's a stone's throw from Highwood for all your beverage and food needs. A few items of note: 1) The lake shore is NOT for swimming. There is signage everywhere that informs you of this. People still do, and still get in trouble. Why do they not want you to swim? Good question, because they use to have shell practice off this shore and there are still "explosive remnants of war (ERW) explosive weapons (bombs, shells, grenades, land mines, naval mines, cluster munition, etc.) that did not explode when they were employed and still pose a risk of detonation, sometimes many decades" That's good enough for me but apparently not some folks. 2) There is parking, but lots can fill up quickly, don't give up, there are more lots, they are just scattered. My favorite lot is the second one when headed north. 3) They maintain the trails here, and they are pooch dog friendly. 4) If you like a little history with your nature, they have tried to incorporate that here. You can read about the shelling practice, or stop and pay your respects at the onsite cemetery. 5) When done exploring if you still need a diversion, just continue driving down Sheridan road and take in how the better half live ;) read more

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Unbelievably beautiful quiet and serene forest preserve in such a beautiful part of the northern suburbs. We came for an early evening walk and were able to witness the stunning sunset. Walking paths by the water. Must return for more beauty and serenity. read more

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We were thrilled to discover this beautiful spot when we went for a walk on the birding trail in a gorgeous fall day. The vistas of the lake and prairies are lovely. It wasn't crowded, and the trails are in very good condition. We wish we'd discovered it sooner! read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - A glimpse of Lake Michigan - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

For years now, and I mean years, I've been obsessing over this bridge in the middle of a distant grassland. When driving by, I'd always stare at the bridge wondering if it's open to the public and how to get to it. Well...guess what? The mystery has been solved! Last night my hubby suggested we take a nice long walk in the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve. I didn't think it would be a long enough walk, since the last time we were there the grassy paths were closed. I had absolutely NO idea that there was a stunning 1.7+ mile path connected by several bridges through grasslands and wetlands and fields of glory. The paths were open, and we took a brisk walk taking in as much fresh healthy air as we could. Along the winding paths, I had no clue what was up ahead. That was an adventure in itself. We crossed many cool bridges--including my special bridge in the middle of a distant grassland. It was so worth the long wait to discover it. Near my special bridge we encountered only a couple other families out walking, and a three piece band filming a video. Further down the winding paths where it got a bit marshy, I was a little concerned we'd be eaten alive by mosquitoes, but I didn't get one single bite. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is truly a magical escape from it all, and I can't wait to return and see what else I discover. If you go, I promise you silence and lots of fresh air. Note: I did see a beware of coyotes sign, but we didn't encounter any. read more

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My husband and I spent about 2 hours walking along the trails and waterfront. This is a beautiful forest preserve with well maintained paths. Keep in mind that parking is very limited. However, since it was Sunday, we parked in the Metra lot right across the road and walked over. read more

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I'm so surprised we've never been here before. What a lovely place to spend a sunny afternoon. There are many options for walking trails. The signage is good. The view is spectacular. read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - View - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

I'm stunned that our visit here yesterday was a first. Back in the day we used to comb every beach between North Beach Chicago all the way up to Sheboygan WI. We'd been to every single beach that existed and most of them we've visited at least a half dozen times. But not Fort Sheridan. Maybe the fact that it's called a Forest Preserve and not directly known as a beach threw us off. Anyways, this was a great find. The beach access parking lot fills up fast. This is found at the east end of Gilgare Lane. We stopped by after dinner time on a somewhat cloudy day, and only one spot was open. It should be noted that spots transition somewhat quickly with people coming and going. The walk down to the beach is about three tenth's of a mile. Along the way there are other paths that you can take, all going to the surrounding prairie area's. The beach itself is pretty small but it does stretch out some allowing people to wander a bit to find their own patch. Lake Michigan comes in like a lion down, I would think it would be a rare exception to see swimmable conditions. The surf pounds in aggressively, a grown man will get knocked down near the shore. As for amenities, I believe there were restrooms in the parking lot. The area here is clean and it's a nice visit, but if you're looking for wide areas of open beach this isn't a fit. Cheers. read more

A bit underwhelming. The reviews make it sound like it's the garden of Eden. Don't get me wrong, it's a nice place but not worth more than a 30 minute drive. Rosewood is the real hidden spot for locals. Forest Park also better option. read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is a nice under appreciated gem in the Lake County Forest Preserve district list of many fine locations. We try to get over to the preserve at least once a month as it changes with the each visit. To start with it has great parking at three different locations. Today we visited the area that I call the middle parking area which has plenty of parking spaces and a clean mens and womens toilets. ( Toilets are always nice to see at a forest preserve since many lack this essential facility). There is a nice mix of paved and nicely groomed grass paths ready to explore. Today there were strolls such as ourselves and your hard core joggers of all ages. The view from the top of the bluff over looks the always blue Lake Michigan. There is a paved walking path down to a small patch of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline. Swimming/wadding is not allowed at these rustic beaches. The effects of the high lake Michigan water line has reduced hundreds of yards of beach to a short beach section but frankly this preserve is more than the beach and was never intended to be a beach park. Don't forget your binoculars or camera as you never know what bird or flower you will see as you wander around or just sit and enjoy the tranquility of this wild space. I have added a few photos from todays visit. Remember the FP is open year around and is a great visit no matter the season. read more

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This is quite a nice, unique, and interesting forest preserve indeed.  A couple of its unique features are 1) the neighboring Fort Sheridan Water Tower which is on the National Register of Historic Places, and 2) the preserve location being right on the shorelines of Lake Michigan.  We first strolled around the water tower and the surrounding upscale residential area and enjoyed the elegant and attractive yellowish brickwork that makes up most of the buildings in Fort Sheridan.   Technically, the forest preserve is an enclave in the small, now residential community of Fort Sheridan, a former Army post from the late 1800's.  I later strolled down one of the trails right to the very blue Lake Michigan shoreline and enjoyed the view and sound of the waves there.  That is about all I saw on this day, but overall it is a very tranquil, relaxing, and enjoyable forest preserve.   It is also somewhat atypical of a forest preserve in that there is not a lot of tree cover to provide shade on much of the trails.   This place is a bit out-of-the-way for us but it is well worth the drive for an occasional visit and we shall return sooner or later to see more of it. read more

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Amazing spot on the north shore! Totally peaceful and great for a dose of nature on the weekend 1 a huge piece of acreage and full of prairie grass and history - a great place to come with dogs and definitely kid friendly as well. Can't wait to come back soon and especially in the fall read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

This is a hop and a skip from the father in law's house and it is always kept up well and there is plenty of trail to walk. We have picnicked here, enjoyed the foliage, and gone for runs. the trail will ultimately lead you to the beach if you want and it is nice to sit and watch the rolling waves. wonderful oasis in the northern suburbs. read more

The beach is one of my favourite places in the suburbs. It's very secluded and the water is so nice. It's a little steep but it's a fun climb down. The views are so breathtaking you almost forget you're in Illinois!! read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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I'm always on the lookout for great nature walk and this is one of the best. A paved path leads from the parking lot down to the beach. Nothing is sweeter than watching the sun rise in the morning. It's my absolute favorite time to go. On the way back, I veer off onto the meadow trail which will take you on a two mile loop past more gorgeous lake front, across a ravine, past a frog pond (quite noisy in season) over wooden bridges and through flowered prairie-land. There are benches to rest at and clean toilet facilities. Parking can be tight in the summer but there is overflow parking by the cemetery. It's a real gem of a place. read more

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Wow, picturesque is an underestatement. Where can I find more places like this around Chicago???! The only complaint is there is no moonwalk path along the beach/lake, it's just gravel and sand. However, I guess that gets pretty close to nature you know. The gravel here is so pretty, I picked some up to use in my own aquarium :p The parking area is beautiful during sun set, it looks like a huuge valley, with the perfect view of the sky. This place also tells you about the history of fort sheridan, and has a cannon used during the war. Coool beans if you ask me! read more

Absolutely GREAT hidden gym on the north shore!!! It's clean, the water is beautiful and the scenery is on point. Plenty of street parking makes it even better. There is only one porta-potty nearby which is a drawback, but not that bad. We spent the afternoon there and are already planning on coming back!! I can't say enough good things about this place! Way better than the dumpy Chicago beaches. read more

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - Parks Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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I just took a walk this morning on the trails that go along the lake south to Walker Avenue. It's so beautiful in the morning. There is a small cove that is so quiet, you would like you are on a deserted island. I've done this walk in all four seasons, and it's lovely in every one of them. In the winter we would share the trail with a family of deer. In the spring, the birds come out to sing. In the summer, you can go so early, that no one is around, yet it's still light out with a beautiful view of the lake. And fall... well, the trees are beautiful. Being a north shore yelper, it's so nice to have this area close by. It's even worth a drive (or bike ride!) from the city! read more

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Awesome place!!! So many trails and so much beautiful scenery!!!! There is a trail that takes you to the lake and some off-roading trails that will take you there! While it says no swimming or wading- many people were enjoying the beautiful water!!! This is a perfect place to to pack up a picnic basket and relax! read more

Its really ugly here and parking sucks do dont go. Just kidding, its awesome and but shh dont tell others because I dont want the secret out. read more

One of my favorite forest preserves around here! Every 15 mins it felt I was somewhere completely different. One moment you're in a giant field, the next a beach on the lake, then you adventure to the historical fort. read more

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There is no way I would have even known about this place if not from the advice of a local. Fort Sheridan still has the vibe of an active military base. Beautifully landscaped with military mansions that have now been converted to townhomes and privately owned quarters. The Forest Preserve is like a slice of nature served on a golden platter. Walking trails, a pebble beach on the lake, and old military cannons and guns to entertain the kids. A great place to spend a few hours and pack a picnic. read more

A friend just introduced me to this place. It's breathtakingly beautiful. I would have never guessed that there is such a majestic preserve so close to home. The directions the my phone gave me ended at the corner of Sheridan and Old Elm. Drive as if you were continuing on Old Elm (east) and follow the signs from there (kudos for good signage). The parking lot is *really* big compared to other preserves' lots I've been to. From the parking lot you can see the lake (stunning!), the prairie grass (golden during the Spring), and patches of woodland. There is pedestrian access down to the beach, and multiple trails among the prairie and woods. There's at least one really cool pedestrian bridge going over a ravine. Super cool! I didn't see any litter, which is a huge bonus. Great place to enjoy nature alone or with others. Bring your dogs, friends, and family (and proper clothes-it's cooler near the lake). read more

About as beautiful as any spot you'll find in the North Shore. Absolutely gorgeous prairie land and waterfront, and tons of wildlife. The trails are maintained very well. Great spot for pictures. read more

On memorial weekend 2020, a number of people went to the adjacent Fort Sheridan National Cemetery where U.S. veteran are buried to pay respects and be with loved ones. All the parking spots were full so numerous people parked on the grass by the parking spots. There were no signs that this was not allowed. An officer ticketed everyone when they came back from the cemetery. He was also rude and yelled at people that will go to court where they'd pay triple the amount. The whole episode was inappropriate and felt like a scam -- have an officer come in to ticket people when it's bound to be full due to the nature of the holiday. read more

A beautiful place to walk or ride your bike (some spots are a little rough, so be prepared to walk a little if you're pulling a Burley or aren't set up for riding through mulch). The beach is gorgeous (Although swimming is forbidden) and my kids love playing in the Eagle's nest. read more

Such a beautiful place! I recommend the fall season because of the amazing colors and mild weather. I love the sight of nature and in a safe environment. read more

This is a cute place tucked away in the northeast corner of Illinois. I happened to discover it through other websites and it's definitely worth a visit. It is very scenic, relaxing and great for a family outing. Photography enthusiasts will find a lot of options here. There are nice places to eat nearby, in the city of highwood. Unlike many beaches in this area, this is quiet, clean and has no entry fee. Parking is available close to the beach, it's very convenient logistically. The place has a some decent trek paths too. Great for a weekend outing with family or with your camera! Dont forget to take a big repellant if you visit in hot weather read more

I'm a regular in all seasons. It's nice to have t access to the beach. A great escape to nature. We walk the beach, the trails. Even visit the military cemetery. There's coyotes deer and mink . I 've taken many pictures and those of Lake Michigan frozen over during the winter 2014. All posted on Instagram. I wish there were more open spaces like this on the Lake. read more