DuPage Forest Preserve permits go on sale Dec. 1
Visitors can purchase DuPage Forest Preserve District 2022 annual permits for off-leash dog areas, private watercraft, stand-up paddleboarding, model crafts and the archery range at dupageforest.org.
Customers are encouraged to buy their permits online or by phone instead of in person, if possible.
To purchase permits online starting Dec. 1:
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. We'll process your payment and drop your permit in the mail!
To purchase by phone (or to get answers to any questions you might have) call Visitor Services at (630) 933-7248, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.
Permits will also be available at Forest Preserve District headquarters, 3S580 Naperville Road in Wheaton, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.
Dog owners can buy off-leash dog permits at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st St. in Oak Brook, from noon to 3 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. Anyone entering these buildings must wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth.
Customers who wish to purchase permits in person can save time by downloading and printing applications in advance at dupageforest.org under "Things to Do," "Get Outdoors" and "Permits and Fees."
As in the past, active U.S. military personnel and honorably discharged U.S. military veterans are eligible for one free annual permit per household for all permit types. And 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.
Private watercraft permit holders can again enjoy stand-up paddleboarding on Silver Lake at Blackwell Forest Preserve near Warrenville for the entire boating season.
The Blackwell family campground will reopen in 2022 for Friday and Saturday nights May 7 to Sept. 25. Picnic shelter and camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.
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, JOBS 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 Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for more than 100 years.
More than 6.2 million people visit its 60-plus forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, six education centers and scores of programs each year.
For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district's e-newsletter, blog, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.