Spring Creek Valley

Description: Spring Lake’s 560-acre protected nature preserve is contained within a 4000–acre forest preserve. Among many plant communities, the area includes a shallow marsh. Seasonal standing water and moist conditions characterize this community where emergent plants tolerant of having their roots in water are common. Spring Lake is designated as an “Important Bird Area” as the marshes and nearby prairies provide breeding and feeding habitat for many migratory and resident birds.