Foundation investments at Monee Reservoir help build community

(Photo by Anthony Schalk)

Cast a line, spend some time on the water, enjoy the solitude of nature or gather with friends and family at Monee Reservoir.  The Nature Foundation of Will County is proud to direct its investments to help enhance the site.

The Nature Foundation’s support helps make Monee Reservoir a popular destination for visitors all year long, said Heather Van Zyl, the Forest Preserve District’s facility supervisor at Monee Reservoir.

“It really helps fast track some of our dreams,” Heather said of the Foundation’s support. “We have big ideas, but big ideas take time and money, so it’s really great when we can find projects that align with the goals of the Foundation, which I feel is really representing some community goals.”

With a 46-acre lake at the forefront, Monee Reservoir shines in the summertime. It’s among the Forest Preserve’s premier fishing destinations, and is also the only spot in the Will County preserves with a full selection of boat rentals — canoes, kayaks, rowboats - even pedalboats.  Guests can launch their own boats, too!

“It’s a great place to have a first-time experience or a weekly experience and be able to try some new things,” Heather said.

In addition to the lake, the site includes a 1.66-mile natural surface trail that leads people to some of the quieter corners of the preserve, including wetlands and areas of prairies lined with woodlands.

Visitors might be surprised by the amount of wildlife they see along the trail. Heather said they’ve seen herons, egrets, muskrats and even a couple of river otters. The lake is a great place to see migrating ducks and other waterfowl that only visit during the winter.

Grab a seat on any of the benches across the preserve to enjoy the scenery and tranquility of the site. Some benches are even available to commemorate special people or occasions through the Bench Donation Program.

In 2025, a shade structure was installed next to the visitor center for guests to get a break from the sun. The project, which was funded with a $50,000 gift from Earthrise Energy, was complemented this year with accessible tables and landscaping surrounding the area.

Heather said the addition of the shade structure helps the space feel more complete and inviting, and allows people to linger and enjoy the preserve for longer. The covered patio also helps creates a more enjoyable setting for public programs at Monee Reservoir.

“I think it really sends a message that the building is a place to visit and a spot where people belong,” she said.

Inside the visitor center, people can access the concession stand and relax while enjoying the view of the busy bird feeders right outside the windows. Heather said they also supply a number of games and crafts for kids.

With all the amenities the preserve provides, plus easy access to recreation and nature, Monee Reservoir is a popular spot for gatherings big and small at the site’s picnic grove and two picnic shelters. The site features the Forest Preserve’s largest shelter, Bluegill Hill, which can accommodate up to 200 people.

The preserve is a frequent stopping point for road cyclists in the area, and we provided funds to install a bike repair station for cyclists to perform quick fixes and adjustments on their pitstops at the preserve.

The Forest Preserve’s annual National Night Out celebration is held at Monee Reservoir to promote police-community partnerships. The Forest Preserve Police Department invites officers from nearby agencies and other organizations to attend this family-friendly event.  We’ll be there! Stop by for an up close look at emergency vehicles, take a kayak out on the water, participate in fun activities, enjoy snacks and more at this year’s, National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.