McHenry Dam Day Use Area

Travel about 1.5 miles west from the Moraine Hills State Park entrance on River Road to reach the entrance to the Dam on south side of road.  Visitors hiking the trails can use an underpass that links the two parks. The Dam area is known for fishing the Fox River, and for picnicing.  Visit the "Fish Tales" concession stand to rent boats, buy bait, or get a snack.  

The bird walks held twice monthly meet at the south end of the dam's parking lot. Experienced birders will guide visitors past wetlands, through prairies and woodlands.  Check the website's Annual Events and Programs page for when the bird walks take place.  

The Annual Events and Programs page includes announcements about International Migratory Bird Day and Family Fishing Day, both which take place in the dam area.  

While at the Dam, check out our two Native Plant demonstration plots located at both ends of the parking lot. These gardens are tended by volunteer gardeners. For photos of the plants found in the Native Gardens check the "Main Park" tab on this website. If you are interested in native plant gardening, join our gardening volunteers by clicking on Volunteers.

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