Take the Scenic Route

A Natural Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Lake Wildwood Association is proud to introduce one of its newest destinations, Shaw Creek Park and Trail. Tucked into a quiet corner of the community, this scenic space offers a chance to slow down, stretch your legs, and experience a quieter side of lake life shaped by the surrounding landscape.

Once known as the 319 Grant Area, the site has been carefully redeveloped into a multi-use outdoor retreat designed for everyday use. A network of winding trails follows the natural path of Shaw Creek, guiding visitors through wooded sections, gentle elevation changes, and open areas that create a sense of distance from nearby homes and roads.

Whether you are out for a casual walk, a morning hike, or simply looking for a place to reset, Shaw Creek Park provides a consistent and accessible escape. Benches and quiet stretches along the trail offer space to pause, while the sound of moving water and wind through the trees adds to the calm.

319 Grant

The Clean Water Act Section 319(h)

Before Shaw Creek Park and Trail became a place to explore and unwind, it was the focus of a major restoration effort that shaped the landscape you see today.

In 2012, Lake Wildwood Association was awarded a 319 Grant to support the Lake Wildwood Stream and Floodplain Restoration Project. The objective was straightforward but essential: protect Shaw Creek, reduce the amount of sediment entering the lake, and restore stability to an area that had experienced years of steady erosion.

Along approximately 1,200 feet of the creek, severely eroded streambanks were repaired and reinforced. In one section, the bank had risen more than 40 feet and was at serious risk of collapse. Addressing these conditions required a balanced approach that combined structural support with natural restoration.

Techniques such as stone toe protection, toewood, rootwad revetments, and stream barbs were used alongside careful bank grading and native plantings. Together, these elements strengthened the banks while preserving the natural look and character of the creek corridor.

Park & Trail Phase One

Wildflower Garden

The Illinois native wildflower garden adds color, movement, and seasonal variety to the trail. Every plant supports pollinators, strengthens the ecosystem, and reflects the care and effort of volunteers who maintain it year after year.

The garden is made possible through the work of volunteers from the Common Properties and Amenities Committee. From planting to ongoing care, their efforts keep the garden thriving year after year.

The Association extends its sincere thanks to each volunteer for their commitment and stewardship.

Wild Bergamot Native Wildflower

Blue Sage Native Wildflower

Blue Vervain Native Wildflower

Butterfly Weed Native Wildflower

Columbine Native Wildflower

Compass Plant Native Wildflower

Hairy Beardtongue Native Wildflower

Lance-leaf Coreopsis Native Wildflower

Common Milkweed Native Wildflower

Ohio Spiderwort Native Wildflower

Pale Purple Coneflower Native Wildflower

Prairie Smoke Native Wildflower

Purple Prairie Clover Native Wildflower

Showy Goldenrod Native Wildflower

White Wild Indigo Native Wildflower