Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Busse Woods, also called Ned Brown Forest Preserve, is a 3,700-acre forest preserve located primarily in Elk Grove and Schaumburg Townships in Cook County, Illinois. It is managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and is one of the largest forest preserves in the Chicago metropolitan area. The preserve centers around Busse Lake, a 590-acre reservoir that provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic views. The surrounding natural areas feature mature hardwood forests, wetlands, and marshes that support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several species of migratory birds and native wildlife such as white-tailed deer and foxes.
The forest preserve offers more than 11 miles of paved and unpaved trails suited for hiking, jogging, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing in winter months. The multi-use Busse Woods Trail system provides loop routes around the lake and through the wooded areas, making it popular for both casual visitors and fitness enthusiasts. Several picnic groves, playgrounds, and open grassy fields are available for family-friendly recreation. The fishing piers and kayak launches on the lake attract anglers and paddlers year-round.
Historically, the area was preserved when the land was acquired during the 1930s as part of regional efforts to protect natural green spaces amid expanding urban development. The preserve is named after Ned Brown, a former commissioner of the Forest Preserve District who advocated for conservation and public access.
Busse Woods remains a key recreational and ecological resource for the Chicago region, providing an accessible natural retreat and habitat preservation. Visitors appreciate the balance of outdoor activity opportunities and peaceful natural settings it offers close to the city.
