Florsheim Nature Preserve is a 40-acre parcel of land donated to the Village by Harold and Sarabel Florsheim in 1985.
In 2003, an additional 32 acres was donated which comprises the Old Mill Woods addition of Florsheim Nature Preserve.
An important component of the Nature Preserves is the unique and rare ecosystems. The North Park addition has rare "flatwoods". The Old Mill Woods addition has a buttonbush wetland and Florsheim has a rare sedge meadow and wet-mesic prairie. All have mature oak/hickory woodlands with various state and federally threatened or endangered plants.
A path system has been installed throughout the site. Access points for the paths are located at North Park, Florsheim, and Old Mill Woods. Interpretive signs have been installed along the path to explain the rare ecosystems and management techniques utilized to keep the preserves in pristine condition.
Park Amenities
- Nature Trail System and Board Walks
- Small Parking Lot
- Bike Racks
- Coming Soon: Interpretive Signs
Because of the rare and unique nature of these sites and the protection provided by the State of Illinois as Dedicated Nature Preserves, there are restrictions on the use of the preserves to protect their enjoyment for all in perpetuity.
Rules of the Nature Preserves
- Hiking and cross-country skiing are allowed on the paths throughout the preserves.
- Preserve visitors are to stay on the paths.
- Picnicking is not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- No motor vehicles are allowed.
- No fishing or hunting is allowed.
- It is illegal to take anything into or from the nature preserves.
- Bicycles are not allowed.