2020 DuPage County forest preserve permits now on sale

Visitors can purchase Forest Preserve District of DuPage County 2020 annual permits for off-leash dog areas, private watercraft, archery and model crafts around the clock at dupageforest.org and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at Visitor Services, 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton.

Dog owners can purchase off-leash permits in person from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st St. in Oak Brook.

New for 2020, all active U.S. military personnel and honorably discharged military veterans are eligible for one free annual permit per household for all permit types. As in the past, senior citizens 65 and older are eligible for one free annual permit per household.

Permit holders who have qualified for free permits in the past two years will automatically receive a credit after completing their online transactions.

Also in 2020, private watercraft permit holders again can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding on Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville for the entire boating season.

Sign up to receive text alerts on closures and other important updates on off-leash dog areas, archery and private watercraft, as well as golf and special events. Text keywords DOGS, ARCHERY, WATERCRAFT, GOLF or EVENTS (one keyword per text) to (866) 743-7332 to sign up. Message and data rates apply; full terms and conditions are at dupageforest.org/stay-connected.

The Blackwell family campground will reopen for Friday and Saturday nights from May through October. Picnic shelter and camping reservations are available up to a year in advance.

To purchase permits online:

1. Visit dupageforest.org.

2. Click "Registration & Permits" and "Purchase Permits."

3. Scroll to the one you want and click "Add to Cart."

4. Log into your account. (If you bought a permit or signed up for a program online or over the phone, you likely have one.) Don't have one? Click "Create New Account."

5. Use your credit card to make a secure payment.

6. The district will process your payment and drop your permit in the mail.

Customers who wish to purchase permits through Visitor Services can save time by downloading and printing applications in advance at dupageforest.org under "Things to Do," "Get Outdoors, and "Permits and Fees." For more information, call (630) 933-7248.