Nature Preserve

The nature preserve provides all who use it a stunning view of nature. Accessible from 2 points along Iron Gate Trail, is one of the few points of public access to Governor Bond Lake and offers a hiking trail through the preserve and around the lake, old wooden bridges, and a cabin nestled back in the woods. Miles of hiking and horseback riding are available for those looking for native woods and prairies. The Nature Preserve is dedicated to saving the native grasses and vegetation to the area. The Horseback riding trails are a favorite among residents. For a link to hiking/horse trails at the Kingsbury Park District Nature Preserve please Follow the link Below:

Shelter Rental Agreement

Horse Trails

Kingsbury Park District

Nature Preserve Trail Usage Rules & Regulations (2025)

To help preserve the natural beauty of our trails and ensure safety for all, please follow these rules when visiting:

General Use

Open daily from dawn until dusk (includes road, parking lot, and trails). Unauthorized persons found on Park District property outside posted hours is considered trespassing and will be subject to arrest and prosecution.

No camping, hunting, or fires.
All native plants and animals are protected – no collecting, digging, or removal.
Gathering of mushrooms, berries, and tree fruit for personal use is allowed.
- Commercial harvesting is strictly prohibited.
Harvesting of medicinal herbs (e.g., ginseng, goldenseal) and native flowers is prohibited.
No ATVs or motorized vehicles, except in designated rock parking lot.
Pets must be leashed at all times.
Firearms, and weapons are prohibited.
Respect private property adjoining the preserve – do not enter without permission.
Please remove all litter and use trash receptacles before leaving.

Horseback Riding

All riders must register online at kingsburyparkdistrict.com. You will receive weather-related closure updates through the registration system.
Beginning January 1, 2026:
- $20 per horse (in-district)
- $40 per horse (out-of-district)
Horses are not allowed:
- On the south side trails accessible from “Irongates”.
- In the cemetery.
- Within 30 feet of the pavilion. Tying horses to pavilion posts is prohibited.
North side trail closures for horses:
- Closed Dec. 1 – Apr. 30 every year.
- During May, Sept., Oct., and Nov., trails close for a minimum of 48 hours if more than 1 inch of rain falls in 24 hours.
Manure must be removed from parking lot, road and grass area around pavilion. It is encouraged to remove manure from trails. This is a multi-use area.
Horses must be attended at all times.
Allowed gaits: walk, trot, slow canter only.
- No galloping or racing.
- Please walk horses up and down hills.
No commercial use of trails without Park District permission.