Where to See the Best Waterfalls in the Chicago Suburbs

Finding waterfalls in Chicagoland is not common, so when you spot one it makes hikes that much more special! We’ve been spending more time in nature lately and find these waterfalls so beautiful and peaceful. It’s also fun to race floating sticks down the rapids and an extra bonus if our kids can splash in a nearby creek!

Fullersburg Woods Waterfall, Oak Brook

Fullersburg Woods
3609 Spring Road
Oak Brook, IL 60523

Park in the lot off York Road a little north of Ogden Avenue and walk the paved trail under the bridge and past the giant waterwheel on the Graue Mill Museum.

While most waterfalls in our area are from dams, this one has become controversial as of late. Some want to preserve the historical significance of the dam to power the the only waterwheel gristmill in the Chicago area and some want to remove the dam to restore the natural ecosystem. Click here to learn about the debate on Facebook.

Delnor Woods Waterfall, St. Charles

photo courtesy of local mom, Lauretta Q.

Delnor Woods Park
517 IL-25
St. Charles, IL 60174

Paved paths meander around the park and it’s fun to ford the creek by this waterfall.

Blackhawk Waterfall, South Elgin

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve
35W003 Route 31
South Elgin, IL 60177

READ

New Playground and Splash Pad at 95th Street Community Plaza in Naperville

Known as the hidden waterfall and a little off the path, this natural waterfall cascades into a shallow creek. Click here to read more about where to park depending on how far you want to walk.

Lake Katherine Waterfall, Palos Heights

Lake Katherine Botantic Gardens
7402 Lake Katherine Drive
Palos Heights, IL 60463

There is a very small waterfall by the entrance of Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens as you walk in from the parking lot. The grounds are also beautiful for a walk. Click here to get more details about visiting Lake Katherine.