Places to Go-Forest Preserves-York Woods

The 69.61-acre York Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook — the county's first forest preserve — features vast oak woodlands and great places to picnic.

Natural Scene

Oaks over 100 years old form canopies over the trail, where birders enjoy spotting northern orioles, cedar waxwings, warbling vireos, mallards, red-bellied woodpeckers and owls, among others.

Driving Directions

To reach the main entrance, go north of York Road to Harger Road and turn left. the entrance will be on the right. To reach the lot on the north side, go north on York Road to Harger Road and turn left. Take the first right onto Timber Edge Drive and follow it north. The lot will be on the left.

trail through the summer woods at York Woods

Trails

An asphalt footpath that takes hikers through the woods and along the northern edge of the preserve connects the south picnic area with the north picnic area.

A second, 1-mile paved trail also connects the two areas and is open to hikers and cross-country skiers as well as to bicyclists or joggers.

If you’re in the mood for more than a mile, a 0.6-mile section of the greater 25-mile Salt Creek Greenway Trail cuts through the preserve. Head north about 17 miles and you’ll end at Ned Brown Preserve in Elk Grove Village; 8 or so miles south and you’ll be at the gates to Brookfield Zoo!

Picnicking

York Woods boasts the the oldest picnic grove in the county and has 3 acres of mowed grass, shade trees and a picnic shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. A small 25-person shelter is available first-come, first-served. Ground fires are not allowed, but you can bring grills. (The preserve has hot-coal containers for charcoal.)

The 100-person CCC shelter is currently closed due to restoration and should reopen in spring 2023. Details about reserving the 100-person CCC south shelter are on our Picnicking page.

History

The Forest Preserve District purchased York Woods in 1917, making it the oldest forest preserve in the county.

Hours & Things to Know

The preserve is open daily from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset. Dogs must be on leashes under 10 feet long, and alcohol is prohibited. Read our Rules & Regulations.