Jackson Bottom Wetlands

The 635-acre Wetlands has a nature center, 4.5 miles of trails, and river overlook. It is a popular birding area, with numerous raptors, songbirds, and migratory waterfowl. There is no paddlecraft put in or take out in the Wetlands. Dogs are not allowed in the Wetlands.

The preserve has transitioned from a waste disposal area (1910s) to a sewer farm (1940s) to a grassland (1970s) and back to its natural wetland state (1980s). Clean Water Services’ headquarters is located at the preserve.

Parking

South Parking Lot: 43 paved parking spotsNorth Parking Lot: 14 paved parking spots

River Access:

River Mile 44.3

One-half mile bark chip/gravel path from the south parking lot to the river overlook. There is no paddlecraft put in or take out in the Wetlands.

Upriver:

Persistent log jam (River Mile 45.0)
0.7 miles (20 minutes paddling time)
Log jams are dangerous. Do not cross.

Downriver:

The Licorice Lane Farm Dam (River Mile 39.0) is 5.3 miles downriver (2.5 hours paddling time). The dam is impassable during low summer river levels.

Site Amenities

Parking: Yes
River Access: None
Dock/Ramp: No
River Access: None
Dock/Ramp: No
Restrooms: Yes
Picnic Area: Yes
Trash Cans: No
Playground: No
Bike Rack: No
EV Charging Station: No
Ebike Charging Station: No
Dogs Allowed: No
Water Trail Map At Site: No
PFDs Kiosk: No
Boat Storage Rack: No

Paddlecraft Rental: N/A

Parking

South Parking Lot

Nature Center - Outside

Nature Center - Inside

Trail Map Sign

Walkway To River Overlook

River Overlook

River View

Headquarters Building