Joliet, IL – Dog owners across Will County can now purchase their 2026 Forest Preserve District dog park permits, which became available November 1 both online and at visitor centers.
Each permit is valid for the remainder of 2025 and all of 2026, offering year-round access to the Forest Preserve’s six off-leash dog parks:
- Forked Creek Preserve – Ballou Road Access (Wesley Township near Wilmington)
- Hammel Woods – DuPage River Access (Shorewood)
- Lower Rock Run Preserve – McClintock Road Access (Joliet)
- Messenger Marsh (Homer Glen)
- Plum Valley Preserve (Crete Township)
- Whalon Lake (Naperville)
Each facility features separate fenced areas for large dogs and for small dogs weighing 35 pounds or less.
Annual permits cost $40 for Will County residents and $80 for nonresidents, with discounts available for seniors, veterans, and active-duty military. Up to three dogs can be included per permit, and daily passes are also available for $5 per visit.
Permits may be purchased in person at:
- Four Rivers Environmental Education Center (Channahon)
- Hidden Oaks Nature Center (Bolingbrook)
- Isle a la Cache Museum (Romeoville)
- Plum Creek Nature Center (Crete Township)
- Sugar Creek Administration Center (Joliet)
Online purchases include a $2 service fee, and mailed applications are accepted at the Sugar Creek Administration Center.
For full details, including dog park rules and park maps, visit ReconnectWithNature.org and search “Dog Parks.”
