Maple Grove (Pump, DuPage County Forest Preserve)

## Overview Maple Grove is a public drinking water pump located within the DuPage County Forest Preserve system in Downers Grove Township, Illinois. Part of the extensive network of forest preserves managed by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Maple Grove offers visitors access to a hand-pump well — a welcome feature for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts exploring the preserve's trails and green spaces. DuPage County's forest preserves encompass thousands of acres of protected woodlands, prairies, and wetlands in the western suburbs of Chicago. The Maple Grove area sits near the heart of Downers Grove Township, providing a convenient natural retreat for residents of the surrounding communities. While this is a pump-fed well rather than a natural spring, it has long served as a refreshment stop for visitors enjoying the preserve. ## Directions 1. The pump is located in the Maple Grove area of the DuPage County Forest Preserve in Downers Grove Township, IL 60515. 2. Use GPS coordinates **41.7886, -88.0236** to navigate directly to the site. 3. From Interstate 355, head east toward Downers Grove. Look for DuPage County Forest Preserve signage directing you to Maple Grove. 4. Once inside the preserve, follow marked trails or paths toward the pump location. The pump is typically situated near a picnic or trailhead area for easy public access. *Note: Exact parking and trailhead details may vary — checking the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's official website or map before your visit is recommended.* ## What to Expect At Maple Grove, you'll find a hand-operated water pump drawing from a well within the forest preserve. The surrounding landscape features the mature hardwood groves and open green spaces characteristic of DuPage County's preserves, making it a pleasant spot to rest during a walk or bike ride. The pump is publicly accessible during regular forest preserve hours, which typically run from sunrise to sunset. Water from the pump has historically been used by visitors as drinking water, though water quality can vary seasonally and with well maintenance schedules. The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County periodically tests and maintains its water sources, but visitors should be aware that well water in public parks may not always be actively monitored. The area around Maple Grove is generally flat and accessible, with paved and unpaved trails connecting to the broader DuPage County trail network. Seasonal wildflowers, mature maple and oak trees, and abundant birdlife make this a rewarding stop any time of year. In winter months, the pump may be shut off to prevent freezing — plan accordingly if visiting between late fall and early spring.