Hundreds of studies have found a direct relationship between access to nature and good physical and mental health and long-term well-being. Some of the benefits include lower stress and anxiety; reduced incidences of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure; children doing better in school; lower impacts from ADHD; and improved immune function. A meta-analysis of 140 such studies involving 290 million people from 20 countries by the University of East Anglia in the U.K. confirmed that “spending time in, or living close to, natural green spaces is associated with diverse and significant health benefits,” including most of those listed above.

Birding

While winding through Wampum Lake via footpaths, visitors may spot a variety of birds such as white-breasted nuthatches, great-horned owls and downy woodpeckers; as well as different mammals including deer, racoons, eastern moles and beavers. For more information about birding visit the Chicago Audubon Society. 

Fishing

Wampum Lake is 35 acres and has a maximum depth of 14.1 feet. Nine bump-outs are located on the southern and western shorelines allowing better access to deep water. Designated ice fishing lake.

Walking and Hiking

While there is no paved walking trial Wampum Lake there a plenty of foot paths to explore. Wampum Lake is also nearby to the Thorn Creek Trail System’s nearly 30 miles of paved and unpaved trails connect multiple forest preserves, winding past lakes, wetlands and woodlands. In addition to Wampum Lake, the Lansing Journal profiled eight other nearby preserves to explore for hiking and walking.

Creative Guides to Experience Nature

Download our easy-to-use guides for exercises for all ages in how to create a nature journal, use sound maps, drawing challenges, how to make a nature slide show, and how to use all four senses to experience the wonder of nature that is all around you at Wampum Lake.