Sunset Woods Park

This park is designated a natural area. The land that makes up Sunset Woods Park was purchased in several parcels from 1920 to 1949. Up until 1968 an Indian Trail tree stood at Sunset Woods Park. Native Americans used trees to mark trails used for traveling and commerce between various tribes. White Oaks were used on this particular trail though Sunset Woods. Another trail nearby used American Elms as trail markers. Over 100 trees in Northern Illinois have been identified as Indian Trail Trees. At least 11 oak trees were identified in Highland Park and survived until 1905.  The park is home to the Park District of Highland Park's Parks and Planning offices.

Features, Amenities and Activities

• Baseball fields
• Basketball courts
• Football fields
• Handicap accessible
• Outdoor ice rink (winter)
• Picnic areas (for groups--reservations required)
• Playground for tot, preschool and elementary ages
• Shelters
• Skatepark
• Tennis courts (four, soft/lighted and three, hard)
• Walking path (.9 mile, paved)

Sunset Woods Park is 38 acres, eight of which are designated natural areas consisting of Mesic Closed Savanna and ephemeral wetlands. Wildlife includes red-tailed hawks, grey squirrels, bluebirds, various songbirds, skunk and opossum.

Fees

Picnic Permit for group of 12-59 individuals
$35/resident, $60/nonresident
Min/Max is 12/60

Picnic Permit for group of 60-99 individuals
$45/resident, $80/nonresident
Min/Max is 60/100

Picnic Permit for group of 100+ individuals
$60/resident, $110/nonresident
Min/Max is 100/200

Picnic Permit Daily Damage Deposit Fee
$45

Pavilion Rental
There is an additional fee of $65-$125 for rental of the pavilion.

Schedule

Soft Courts Schedule Coming Soon!

Picnic Permits
Groups of 12 or more wishing to use or picnic in Sunset Woods Park are required to secure a permit prior to their visit for a designated location. The District’s park ranger and City police patrol and check for valid permit holders. Residents only may make reservations beginning March 1, 2007. Open reservations begin April 2, 2007. Permits are required/available for: Mon-Sun, May 1-September 30, 2007 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Picnic Permit Reservations
Residents only may make reservations beginning March 1, 2007. Open reservations begin April 2, 2007.

Rules and Regulations

Park Permit Registration
Accepted in-person at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road, at least 10 days prior to picnic date to secure a permit. Registration hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00-11:30 a.m.