Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Skokie Lagoons is an expansive wetland complex located in Cook County, Illinois, spanning primarily through the villages of Glenview and Northbrook. The lagoons were created by damming the West Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps to provide flood control and recreational opportunities. The area covers about 1,100 acres, including interconnected lagoons, wetlands, and forest preserves. Its setting features a mix of oak and maple woodlands, marshes, and open water, which supports a wide variety of wildlife such as waterfowl, songbirds, turtles, and fish species including largemouth bass and northern pike. Skokie Lagoons is managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore more than 16 miles of hiking and multi-use trails that weave through the forested preserves, offering scenic views of the lagoons and abundant opportunities for birdwatching. Non-motorized boating such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing is also highly popular, with boat rental facilities available nearby. In addition, the lagoons serve as a peaceful spot for photography, picnicking, and wildlife observation. The preserved woodlands and aquatic environments make Skokie Lagoons an important habitat corridor within a heavily urbanized region. Its combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and variety of outdoor activities makes it a favorite local destination year-round.
