At Gerstad Builders, we believe in creating communities that go beyond just homes. We’re passionate about ensuring our families live in vibrant locations with plenty of spots to breathe in fresh air and connect in the great outdoors. Whether you choose to purchase a home in McHenry, Poplar Grove or Williams Bay, here is our round-up of the best parks near our new homes in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Parks near McHenry, Il.

Situated in the quiet, rolling landscape of McHenry, Liberty Trails welcomes you home to a master-planned community that boasts convenience and luxury. Homes are priced from the mid-$300,000s and available on ranch and two-story plans. Residents enjoy comfortable living with two to four bedrooms and up to three baths.

Liberty Trails sits near McHenry’s top outdoor trails and parks. Jaycee Park and McHenry Park District Trails (Rides Away Trail and Kishwaukee River Trail) offer day-use amenities, including sports fields, playgrounds and picnic areas. Fox Ridge Park is a local favorite park with its playground and basketball court surrounded by greenspace. Kids love the recently updated Fort McHenry Park, with its brand new splash pad, as well as its playground, picnic tables and bike trails!

Petersen Park and Moraine Hills State Park are also popular outdoor destinations, offering opportunities for boating, fishing and other watersports. Another McHenry favorite is the Stickney Run Conservation Area, home to various bird species like great blue herons, blue jays, red-tailed hawks, goldfinches and red-headed woodpeckers. Hiking trails, fishing, cross-country skiing trails and picnic areas are also available at this location.

Last but not least, check out McHenry Knox Park! Home to the McHenry Recreation Center and McHenry Riverwalk Foundation, it also boasts a playground, skate park, ballfields and sprot courts and even an aquatic center. Plus, it hosts a Music in the Park event on Thursdays throughout the summer with a farmers market, local food vendors and more!

Parks in Poplar Grove, Il.

Located in beautiful Poplar Grove, The Trails of Dawson Creek offers single-family homes priced from the $300,000s. Showcasing two to four bedrooms and up to three baths, homes are available on ranch and two-story plans that value comfort and luxury details.

Multiple local parks are nearby with amenities that suit the whole family. Lion Park is the perfect place to practice your swing, pass, kick and more on various sports fields. Make use of provided amenities including basketball and tennis courts, a baseball field, GAGA ball pit, bocce ball, a walking path and playground. West Grove Neighborhood Park, Bel-Air Park and Sherman Oaks Park also have playground equipment for families and open space that encourages locals to get outside and connect in nature. As a tribute to Poplar Grove’s military citizens, Veteran’s Memorial Park has a pavilion area that is available with a reservation. Looking for a pet-friendly place to stretch your legs and theirs? The Poplar Grove Dog Park provides an area for your dog to run and play with others off-leash. Dogs are required to be leashed outside of the fenced area.

Rock Cut State Park is the ideal place for adventurers! The 3,092-square-foot park is the largest one in Northern Illinois and is known for its hiking and biking trails, cross country ski and snowshoe trails, camp sites and lakes offering fishing and paddling.

Parks in Williams Bay, Wi.

Find your home in Williams Bay at Bailey Estates and live near expansive trails and parks just a short drive away. Priced from mid-$400,000s, ranch and two-story homes feature two to five bedrooms and up to three baths. Garages fit two or three cars, depending on the plan.

Head out to Edgewater Park for the day and experience a community gem. Located along the Geneva Lake shoreline, you can relax on the shore or with your toes in the sand of adjacent Williams Bay Beach. Nearby, Fontana Park puts your family waterside with lake access and amenities like a children’s playground and sports fields. Duck Pond Recreation Area is another local favorite destination with its playground, baseball fields and large greenspace ideal for football, soccer or volleyball, or even to fly a kite! It also offers two rental pavilions ideal for gatherings, as well as access to an onsite kitchen for party prep!

Seeking a serene escape into nature? The Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy is home to miles of walking trails through restored landscapes. With a dedication to the “children of tomorrow,” the conservancy invites you to visit its shoreland-wetland area and help protect it for future generations. A second nature conservancy is also located nearby – Hildebrand Nature Conservancy. This 11.5-acre preserved is owned by the Village of Fontana and protected by a conservation easement, ensuring it’ll be around for generations to come. Meander along a walking trail while exploring the local wildlife and trout stream and getting your fill of nature!

Interested in finding your dream home near quality Illinois and Wisconsin parks? Make sure to visit the community pages for Liberty Trails, The Trails of Dawson Creek and Bailey Estates to select the perfect fit. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a showing, fill out the contact form on our website or call us at 815-385-4495. Prospective buyers are also encouraged to visit our models, conveniently located in McHenry.