Kane County opens new Arrowwood Point Archery Complex with free public event June 6

Public invited to ribbon cutting, archery demonstration and free “Try Archery”

Take aim at a new outdoor adventure this summer, as the Forest Preserve District of Kane County invites the public to the grand opening of the new Arrowwood Point Archery Complex at Mill Creek Greenway Forest Preserve in Elburn on Saturday, June 6.

This family-friendly event at 11 a.m. will give visitors of all-ages the chance to try archery for free, with no experience necessary.

Participants can learn the basics using Forest Preserve District equipment while receiving hands-on guidance from certified staff. Whether you are a beginner, curious first-timer, or looking for a new hobby, this event is an opportunity to give archery a shot.

The celebration will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, photo opportunity, and welcome remarks from Executive Director Benjamin Haberthur. Attendees also will enjoy a live archery demonstration by the Kane County 4-H Youth Program, showcasing the skill, focus and fun of the sport.

Following the ceremony, visitors can participate in “Try Archery” stations, where certified instructors from the Forest Preserve District will help participants safely learn proper technique, equipment use and range safety.

Staff also will be available to answer questions about gear, future range use, and how to get started in archery. To make the day even more memorable, the first 150 participants will receive a commemorative patch, while supplies last.

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County was awarded a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition & Development grant for the archery project in 2023. The District was one of 118 forest preserve districts, conservation agencies and parks to receive funding, during that grant year. Grants are administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The Forest Preserve District’s $1.2 million project includes the archery complex, picnic shelter, mowed trails, interpretive signage, restrooms, an entry drive with additional parking, plus a 62-acre tallgrass prairie restoration.

“Thanks to the support of the stat’s OSLAD grant program, we’re excited to unveil this new amenity for the residents of Kane County,” Haberthur said. “Arrowwood Point Archery Complex is the only public range in Kane, and one of only a few in the Chicagoland area. With three distinct options, traditional, elevated, and crossbow, we have a range for every archery style.”

The archery complex will officially open for public shooting at 1 p.m., following the grand opening event. Mill Creek Greenway Forest Preserve is located at 02N253 Brundige Road in Elburn.

For more information, visit kaneforest.com, or follow the Forest Preserve District of Kane County on social media by searching @forestpreserve.