Knoch Knolls Commons Park
Knoch Knolls Commons Park Map
About Knoch Knolls Commons Park in Naperville
Knoch Knolls Park is the largest park in the Naperville Park District, spanning over 260 acres in Naperville, Illinois. The park is situated at the confluence of the east and west branches of the DuPage River, creating a unique and diverse natural environment.
The park's history dates back to 1980 when Judge Win Knoch and Irene Knoch donated 13 acres of farmland to the Naperville Park District. Over the years, the park has expanded through additional land acquisitions, including the purchase of Glyman Woods to the east in 1988 and the Biannucci Confluence to the west in 1989. In 2021, the park further expanded with a donation of nearly 40 acres from the Frank Rus Trust.
Knoch Knolls Park boasts a variety of ecosystems, including upland woods, river bluffs, prairie, woodlands, lowland woodlands, and a unique habitat called a sedge meadow. This diversity of habitats makes the park an excellent location for nature observation, hiking, and educational activities.
The park features an extensive network of trails, including hiking and biking paths. A multi-use trail forms a loop on the south side of the park, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the natural surroundings. The DuPage River Trail also passes through the park, offering extended hiking and biking options.
One of the park's notable features is the Knoch Knolls Nature Center, which houses a 900-gallon freshwater fish tank showcasing aquatic life found in the DuPage River. The Nature Center offers educational programs and exhibits that focus on the river's formation, local wildlife, and the area's history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the park provides various recreational opportunities. An 18-hole disc golf course, renovated in 2014, is available for free use during park hours. The park also offers fishing along the banks of the river (fishing license required for ages 16-65) and a boat/canoe launch for water activities.
Knoch Knolls Park is not only a haven for nature lovers but also serves as an important conservation area. The Frank Rus Preserve, part of the recent expansion, is maintained as open space under a conservation easement administered by The Conservation Foundation.
