The Fox River Water Trail showcases Kendall County as part of a longer river route. From the Wisconsin–Illinois border, it runs through Lake, McHenry, Kane, Kendall and LaSalle counties to the Illinois River in Ottawa. As a coordinated system of access points and signage, it supports recreational canoe and kayak trips. The only portage section in Kendall County is at the Yorkville Dam—a precise landmark along the route that spans multiple counties.

Experience the Water and Trails

Silver Springs SFWA also offers a range of ways to enjoy the water. Boating is allowed on Loon Lake and Beaver Lake, but gasoline-powered motors are not permitted. Fishing for channel catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, sunfish and crappie is also available in two small lakes. If you would rather explore on foot, you’ll find a scenic, four-mile trail there: it runs alongside the river, passes through wooded areas and offers views of the lakes. Water activities and trail views highlight two different sides of the preserve.

Another route explores Hoover Forest Preserve: its improved trail network is 5.5 miles long and winds through diverse habitats to scenic viewpoints. The area is also notable for its plant diversity. Nearly 300 native species grow there; some are not known to occur anywhere else in Kendall County. A visit to enjoy nature can therefore take in both the landscape along the trails and the distinctive mix of plant life.

Fox River Bluffs opened in 2023. Its features include a restored prairie, an oak afforestation project and a small parking lot. The restored prairie and afforestation give the site a different natural character from the trail network and habitats at Hoover Forest Preserve.

Culture and Regional Traditions

You can discover history at Lyon Farm through a distinctive collection: the historic village includes 15 restored buildings. It also features a 1918 Chicago Burlington & Quincy caboose. Together, the buildings and railcar connect the village setting with a clearly dated piece of railroad history.

The Kendall County Fair is a seasonal highlight. Held every summer, it celebrates the region’s agricultural traditions as a family-friendly community gathering. Events include livestock competitions, and funnel cakes are also available at the fair. If you’d like to combine your visit with the fair, check the specific event dates before your trip.

Horseback Riding and Trails at Ellis Center

Ellis Equestrian Center offers private and semi-private riding lessons for adults and children ages four and up. Riding lessons and programs are available seven days a week by appointment only. Be sure to schedule an appointment if riding lessons or a program are the focus of your outing.

The District’s trails at Ellis House and Equestrian Center are different: no appointment is required to use them, and there is no usage fee. This lets you distinguish between a scheduled riding activity and a trail visit that requires no appointment, rather than planning them as the same activity.

Discover more destinations: Yorkville, Oswego, Christian County, Mason County, Mclean County, Dupage, Jackson, White County.

For the broader travel overview: Illinois.