Norris Woods Nature Preserve

	Johnor Avenue and 3rd Avenue along the east side of the Fox River
	Virtual Tour: click here

Open Dawn to Dusk

Fast Facts

Park Type: Natural Area
Acreage: 75.9
Park/Facility Code: NWNP
Trails: 0.66 miles

Fishing is not permitted along the shorelines of this nature preserve. Leashed dogs are allowed only on the paved Fox River Trail. This area is protected by law to preserve the natural conditions of flora and fauna.

Illinois State Nature Preserve since 1978

An outstanding historic forest dominated by large canopy red and white oak species – some 200+ years old, along with State threatened and endangered species. While heavily used by walkers and bikers along the Fox River Trail, the site contains multiple natural footrails to discover beautiful scenic views

History

Established: 1840s-1970s
Acquired: 1992

For more than 100 years, from 1840 to the 1970s, Norris Woods was known as Jones Woods. Stephen S. Jones, one of St. Charles’ earliest settlers and its first lawyer, purchased the grove. In 1930, it was purchased by Lester Norris. In 1970, the Nature Conservancy purchased this land and deeded it to the Park District and City. In 1973, the name was changed to Norris Woods and the area was dedicated as an Illinois State Nature Preserve, which assures its preservation for all time. In 1992, the City granted all the property to the care of the Park District.