Top 14 Lakes around Round Lake Park
Best lakes around Round Lake Park feature a diverse natural landscape, including glacial lakes and ponds within forest preserves. The area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, birdwatching, and exploring reclaimed natural spaces. Visitors can find a mix of serene waters and active park environments.
Best lakes around Round Lake Park
- The most popular lakes is Independence Grove Lake, a lake that offers a scenic 115-acre retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry. It is known for birdwatching and observing dragonflies and water birds.
- Another must-see spot is Schreiber Lake, a 5.36-acre glacial lake. The Millennium Trail leads to views of its shoreline, which is surrounded by sedge and willow hummocks.
- Visitors also love Pond at Lakewood Forest Preserve, a lake within a forest preserve. The preserve features an extensive network of well-maintained crushed gravel trails for bikers, hikers, and horseback riders.
- Round Lake Park is known for natural lakes, ponds, and bodies of water within forest preserves. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from glacial formations to reclaimed quarries.
- The lakes around Round Lake Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with 29 upvotes and 17 photos shared.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Independence Grove Lake
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Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve
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Pond at Lakewood Forest Preserve
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Schreiber Lake
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Nippersink Trail
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Tips from the Community
The Lake at Independence Grove is a must-visit stop along the Des Plaines River Trail, offering cyclists a scenic and easy ride through a 115-acre retreat. Once a gravel quarry, this reclaimed space now features smooth paths, gentle terrain, and beautiful lake views—perfect for beginners and family-friendly outings. Visit in the spring, and you might spot colorful wildflowers adding even more charm to this peaceful ride.
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The Lake at Independence Grove, a highlight along the Des Plaines River Trail, offers hikers a scenic 115-acre retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry. If you're visiting in the spring, you may be able to spot colorful warblers along the surrounding woodlands!
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Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve encompasses wetlands, groves of large oaks, and open prairies teeming with wildflowers and native grasses. It features smooth gravel trails, bridges, and boardwalks, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy birdwatching along the way.
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The Millennium Trail leads to a beautiful view of Schreiber Lake, a 5.36-acre glacial lake surrounded by a narrow fringe of floating sedge and willow hummocks along parts of its shoreline.
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The preserve has an extensive network of well-maintained crushed gravel trails that are shared by bikers, hikers, and horseback riders. You will find about half of the trails are in the forest and half are open to the gorgeous rolling fields and lakes of the preserve.
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Slightly bumpy ride on paved trials and a short ride on RTS 60 and 120.
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A 1,200 acre prairie preserve in Grayslake, Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve is the epitome of a lush landscape. With diverse wildlife and terrain, you'll have no issue finding a moment of peace and adventure in Lake County's local wilderness.
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A very nice pond where you can observe dragonflies and water birds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I expect to find around Round Lake Park?
The area around Round Lake Park features a diverse natural landscape, including glacial lakes and ponds within forest preserves. You'll find a mix of serene waters and active park environments, from reclaimed gravel quarries to natural formations.
Are there family-friendly lakes for activities near Round Lake Park?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Independence Grove Lake is a popular choice, offering smooth paths and gentle terrain perfect for family outings. The Pond at Lakewood Forest Preserve also provides well-maintained trails suitable for families.
Where can I go for birdwatching or wildlife spotting near Round Lake Park?
For birdwatching and wildlife, Independence Grove Lake is excellent, known for dragonflies, water birds, and warblers in spring. Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve, which includes wetlands and prairies, is also a prime spot for diverse wildlife and birdwatching.
Are there dog-friendly trails around the lakes?
Yes, Independence Grove Lake is noted as dog-friendly, offering a scenic retreat for you and your pet. Many of the forest preserves in the area generally welcome dogs on trails, but always check local regulations.
What kind of hiking trails are available near the lakes?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails. The Pond at Lakewood Forest Preserve features an extensive network of well-maintained crushed gravel trails. The Millennium Trail also leads to views of Schreiber Lake, offering a beautiful shoreline walk. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Round Lake Park guide.
Can I go cycling around the lakes near Round Lake Park?
Absolutely! The area is great for cycling. The Millennium Trail, for instance, offers routes that pass by lakes like Schreiber Lake. The Pond at Lakewood Forest Preserve also has crushed gravel trails suitable for bikers. You can find detailed routes in the Cycling around Round Lake Park guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes for nature observation?
Spring is an excellent time to visit, especially for birdwatching. At Independence Grove Lake, you might spot colorful warblers along the surrounding woodlands during this season. The diverse ecosystems offer something to see year-round.
Are there any lakes with unique geological features?
Yes, Schreiber Lake is a 5.36-acre glacial lake, notable for its narrow fringe of floating sedge and willow hummocks along parts of its shoreline. Independence Grove Lake is also unique, being a 115-acre retreat within a reclaimed gravel quarry.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Round Lake Park?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from glacial lakes to reclaimed quarries. Many enjoy the well-maintained trails for various activities, the opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, and the peaceful, scenic retreats offered by places like Independence Grove Lake and Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve.
Are there mountain biking trails near any of the lakes?
Yes, the area offers mountain biking opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Millennium Trail: Rollins Savanna and McDonald Woods Loop' which passes through diverse terrain. For more options, check out the MTB Trails around Round Lake Park guide.
Can I find trails that combine lake views with other natural features?
Definitely. The Rollins Savanna Forest Preserve encompasses wetlands, groves of large oaks, and open prairies, offering trails where you can spot wildlife and enjoy birdwatching alongside water features. The Nippersink Trail also passes many lakes and water points with excellent water quality.
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