Main Park Area

 

The Moraine Hills State Park covers approximately 2,200 acres and is divided by River Road with the main park on the north side and the McHenry Dam Day Use Area on the south side.  The visitor center is located about two miles in from the main entrance at the north end of Lake Defiance.  

 

Anglers young and old fish Lake Defiance from the piers along the boardwalk for nearly 26 species, including northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and channel catfish. People are also allowed to carry in their own canoes or kayaks, or rent one of the rowboats along the shoreline. To rent one of the rowboats (and obtain the oars), visit the"Fish Tales" concession stand located in the McHenry Dam Day Use Area. Ice fishing is also very popular.  

 

The park is probably best known for nearly 9 miles of crushed limestone biking and hiking trails that roll through the beautiful scenery of the wetlands, prairies and woodlands.  Visitors are enthralled with the local wildlife and the eight native plant demonstration garden plots. In winter, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are favorite activities here.

 

Although there is no camping, visitors can reserve picnic shelters through Reserve America.