Mallard Lake, near Bartlett IL, is part of the 948-acre forest reserve called Mallard Lake Forest Preserve in Hanover Park. It features trails, fishing, boating, and areas for picnicking. The Mallard Lake is spread over 85 acres, making it the largest recreational lake in this district. Mallard Lake Forest Preserve is located on a ridgeline left behind by the Wisconsin Glacier’s retreat into Lake Michigan 10,000 years ago. In the 1950s, this was a popular site to mine gravel and peat. It wasn’t until 1956 that some land donations in this area allowed for the creation of Mallard Lake. Later, the district purchased more land on this site to increase the preserve’s size. There was a time when this preserve was also used as a landfill. However, the district has managed to create a better solution and preserve the ecology of this area.

When visiting Mallard Lake, you will see open waters, wetlands, fields, and scattered woodlands home to beavers, blue herons, bobolinks, bullfrogs, and kestrels. Mallard lake has wheelchair-accessible piers and a boardwalk, which is ideal for bird watching. The lake is also home to a variety of fish, and you can try fishing for bluegill, crappie, northern pike, muskie, catfish (channel and flathead), and largemouth bass. You will require a valid Illinois fishing license to partake in this activity. The DuPage forest organization can also learn more about the rules and regulations online. Recently Mallard Lake has seen a rise in non-native invasive zebra mussels. There are several ways you can help the preserve curb its population, from emptying bait buckets in garbage cans, draining water from your boat and gear, making sure everything is dry, and removing all planets, animals and mud from the boat. You can also explore the lake in your kayak, canoe, or any other non-gasoline-powered watercraft, provided you have the Forest Preserve District Permit.

Mallard lake also has designated picnic spots, where you can find picnic tables or areas to spread your blanket. You can bring your grills for a great bbq day with your friends and family. However, ground fires are not allowed. If you’re getting a larger group for a special event, you can reserve a 50-person picnic shelter.

Mallard lake also features 4 miles of trails, which wind around the lake and connect to the Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve. Mallard Lake is a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors! It is open every day from one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset.

Forest Trails Stables
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