About Kickapoo Woods
Kickapoo Woods is a 238-acre site, part of the South Region in the FPCC. The Little Calumet River runs through the site, dividing it into east and west sections. The western sections are not actively managed, thus far. These sections consist of mostly riparian woodlands. The eastern portion of the site has received the most restoration, mainly because of a small prairie remnant. Much attention has been given to the clearing and ongoing management of the prairie. This site is a pattern of wet-mesic and wet prairie. The drier sections of the site are generally at higher levels, whereas the artificial swale is a wet –prairie/sedge meadow. More recently, restoration is being completed, south of the parking lot. These sections are along the east side of The Little Calumet River.
The area is thought to be plowed or pastured, in the past, as indicated by the degree of degradation. It is a site of great possibilities and challenges in the restoration of the site.
The recreation area provides numerous opportunities for wellness activities.
Amenities & Things to Do
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Parking
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Accessible Portable Bathroom
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Paved Trail with Quarter Mile Markers
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Walking and Jogging
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Yoga
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Bicycling
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Canoeing & Kayaking (Carry-in canoe landing.)
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Model Airplane Flying Field
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Dogs (on-leash only)
The Chicago Model Masters
Kickapoo Woods has a model airplane field in the recreational section of the site. The airfield consists of an asphalt 50’ X 400’ fixed-wing runway, along with a helicopter pad.
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The Chicago Model Masters, a group of model airplane enthusiasts, known for building and flying state-of-the-art model aircraft (see YouTube links), designed the airfield. The Chicago Model Masters adopted Kickapoo as the home of their organization. This group is involved with teaching others, including community members and educational institutions.
June Webb
