Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve

About Baker’s Lake Nature Preserve

Baker’s Lake is a birdwatcher’s dream. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope to view all of the bird life on the lake and in the prairie. At the north end of the lake, visitors can observe the island rookery from a viewing platform. The rookery is made of several large wooden structures, each with three nesting platforms. Through binoculars or a strong camera lens, the structures look like scaffolding. Come in June to catch the height of breeding season, when the rookery becomes a truly wild and noisy place.

Get outside and give back.

More to Explore in Cook County, IL

Chicago, IL

Northbrook, IL

Volunteer with Openlands​

Connecting people to nature where they live.

As innovative protectors and stewards of the land since 1963, Openlands exists to create access to nature for all. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and more effective policy in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.

Scroll to Top
Jean Franczyk

See you at the 2026 Openlands Annual Luncheon!

Join us on Oct. 21 for “From the Ground Up,” honoring Jean M. Franczyk and featuring Dr. Tessa Francis as keynote.