Best Parks and Trails Near Mundelein for Summer Adventures

Setting out to explore local trails and parks near Mundelein is an amazing way to spend a beautiful summer day. Soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while going on an adventure. From walking and bike paths to lakeside fun, don’t miss our guide for the best spots in and around Mundelein to spend a day outside. 

Millennial Trail and Greenway Forest Preserve 

One of the largest parks and trails in Lake County, Millennium stretches roughly 30 miles and is accessible right in Mundelein along Midlothian Road.

Why you should visit:

• Terrain for all: surfaces ranging from stone to pavement to grass and water, whether you’ve come to bike, rollerblade, walk, or swim, this preserve has it all. 
• According to traillink.com, Millennium trail is incredibly scenic with the preserve winding through “Indenhurst’s Forest View Park. From there, the trail heads south, traveling through the gently rolling hills of McDonald Woods Forest Preserve and into Bonner Heritage Farm, first settled by Scottish immigrants in 1848.”
• The accessibility of the trail is unlike any other, with ample parking, ramps, water fountains, restrooms, and more to cater to all needs. 

Independence Grove Forest Preserve 

Southeast of Mundelein in Libertyville lies Independence Grove, a beloved local treasure trove filled with opportunity for fun in the sun. 

According to LCFPD.org, at Independence Grove, “7.5 miles of walking trails circle the lake and run through scenic natural areas. Roughly 6.4 miles are available for biking and 3.8 miles for in-line skating. Trails here also connect to neighboring communities and provide walk-in access to the preserve.” Don’t miss their summer concert series, “in the Millennia Plaza overlooking the lake. Pack a picnic or buy dinner and beverages at the café. Enjoy a variety of musical genres by bands playing originals and classics”. 

Perks of the Preserve: 

• Marina with options to kayak, boat, paddleboard, or rent a pedal boat.
• A cafe and a seasonal beer garden that make all the adventuring worth it.
• Playgrounds, picnic areas, apple fishing, and volleyball courts for those looking to get competitive. 

Barefoot Bay Aquatic Center

If you’re the kind of person who needs an option to cool off on a hot day, the Aquatic Center will be your new summer best friend. With water slides, lazy rivers, and more, Barefoot Bay is the perfect Mundelein destination, keeping adults and kids alike entertained from morning to night.  

Some of the notable highlights from Barefoot Bay are their 6-acre aquatic center with features like a zero-depth toddler area, lap pool, lazy river, diving pool, and tons of slides to keep you or your kids entertained for hours. They also host events ranging from family-friendly to “Margaritaville”, where even mom and dad will have a good time. Centrally located and a great spot for family fun, the Bay is the perfect place to spend a day, throw a party, attend, and even catch some rays. 

Other Great Spots

While the above spots are the best for adventuring, there are so many places in and around Mundelein that could give you the tools for a fun, vibrant, and unexpected summer day. 

Wilderness Park South:

• 12-acre wetland preserve with a popular and unique observation deck. If birdwatching is your thing, Wilderness Park offers an unbeatable view. 
• The park also features fishing spots, playgrounds, and an incredibly serene and peaceful environment. 

Diamond Lake Beach:

Offering a lakeside vibe, this spot is great for a chill beach day where you can swim, paddleboard, and picnic without having to venture too far. Mundelein Parks.org says, “Diamond Lake Recreation Beach is located on 100 acres. It includes a natural lake, sand beach, grassy areas, and a shaded picnic grove.  Diamond Lake Beach is a recreational destination for swimming, boating, boat and shelter rentals, special events, and more. Enjoy Diamond Lake Beach’s sandy shoreline, great swimming, kids’ playground on the sand, shaded picnic areas, and more.” 

Indian Trails Park:

The smallest park, but it packs a punch – this compact, 2-acre park has tennis courts that are perfect for sporty families and those looking to get their workout in.

Planning Your Perfect Summer Adventure 

1. Choose your style: Hiking, water play, fishing, biking? Once this is decided, it will be easier to figure out where you might want to go. 
2. Bring the essentials, plus some extras, to pack everything you might need for a day out in the sun, including snacks, sunscreen, water, any necessary equipment, and your optimistic attitude. 
3. Check hours and amenities to make sure you get full use out of your time. 
4. Don’t overthink it and just have fun!