Ray Lake Forest Preserve

About Ray Lake Forest Preserve

Ray Lake boasts three wetlands totaling 120 acres, 80 acres of woodlands with predominantly bur oak, hickory and cherry trees, and sprawling farm fields ready to be restored to prairie. Two peninsulas separate two large wetlands, and the upland area along the northeast side of the preserve offers a scenic overlook of all three wetlands.

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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.

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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.