Gebhard Woods State Park

Camping

Only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked (1/3 mile) to the campsite (no vehicular access). Fire rings, picnic tables and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center.

Trail Access

Gebhard Woods is a footbridge away from the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. This 61-mile trail on the old canal towpath is easy walking and gives access to unparalleled scenic and historic sights. Bicyclists also can take advantage of the groomed towpath to enjoy the natural and manmade wonders. The trail is marked and has various wayside exhibits that describe canal-era features encountered along the way. Due to the trail's composition, horseback riding isn't allowed. After a minimum of 4 inches of snowfall, snowmobilers may travel the marked trail available along the canal. Cross-country skiing also is permitted on the trail.

Boating

Canoeists can travel 15 miles of the canal in open water between Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods. Paddlers can spend the day enjoying the natural beauty and abundant wildlife as they float between these two parks. The Aux Sable access area, located between Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods, is home to an original locktender's house, the Aux Sable aqueduct, and canal Lock #8, a perfect place to land the canoe and have a picnic lunch. Small fishing boats with electric motors are allowed in the channel. Gas-powered motors are prohibited due to the canal's shallow depth and fragile embankments.

Fishing

Three fishing ponds are available in the park. Bring your fishing gear and try your skill at catching bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and bullhead. These small ponds provide a great place for the entire family to enjoy a relaxing day casting away the hours. Fishing also is available in the Illinois & Michigan Canal and Nettle Creek.

​Accessibility at Gebhard Woods:

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Parking - The park has asphalt parking lots with accessible parking spaces. The distance to the concrete sidewalk is approximately 20 feet.

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Restrooms - There is an accessible vault toilet in the parking lot.

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Fishing - There is an accessible fishing pier at First Pond, and there is a 50-yard distance from the parking lot to the pier.

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Picnicking - There are two accessible shelters available at Gebhard Woods. The first shelter is located south of the parking lot, and High Point shelter is located east of the parking lot. The first shelter has a wheelchair -accessiblepicnic table and grill.

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Service animals are welcome in the park, and there are three outdoor water fountains.