By mid-October, brilliant sumac and other wildflowers will color the shoreline along Lake Osborne where a walking and bike trail provides a peaceful path to nature.
Other signs suggest all is well for bass fishing (no more than six) and picnicking at the gazebo. Some seasonal precautions are advised, too.
The path along Lake Osborne leads to the back of the Naperville Public Safety Center where flags fly high over a special memorial designating appreciation for public safety and first responders near the entrances to the Naperville Fire Department and the Naperville Police Department.
By car, Lake Osborne is located just west of the Naperville Public Safety Center at 1320 Aurora Avenue. Parking is available.
Respect for change is what we need
Lake Osborne was named to honor civic leader Marjorie Osborne, an advocate of water resource management.
When digging into the history of Osborne’s local leadership, interested residents will learn that in June 1972, a referendum caused the dissolution of Elementary District 78 and High School District 107, and the formation of a 32-square-mile Community Unit School District 203 that exists today. Osborne ended up being elected on Aug. 12, 1972, to serve the new district with Daniel Butler, Mary Lou Cowlishaw, John Dahlberg, Dean Davis, Wilma Reschke and Andrew Wehrli.
In the mid to late 1980s, Osborne, a former member of the Naperville Plan Commission, also served as president of the local preservation society.
Go fish at Lake Osborne
More than ever, a good getaway with a fishing buddy provides a release from the pressures of daily life.
Coupled with the human need to connect with other individuals as well as the joys of experiencing simple pleasures, fishing also teaches patience.
‘Be patient and calm; no one can catch fish in anger.’
—Herbert Hoover
A recent report from an angler supports other Lake Osborne fish stories heard over the years. “I’ve caught six-pound and eight-pound bass along with catfish, bluegill and carp in Lake Osborne,” noted a seasoned fisherman in late September.
So… Buddy up, pack a picnic, grab a tackle box and fishing poles, and venture to Lake Osborne, accessible from Oswego Road, too. Or visit one of Naperville’s many fishing ponds, possibly right in your neighborhood.
One more thing: When sitting on the bench along the trail at Lake Osborne near Oswego Road looking west, reflections and sunsets can be spectacular this time of year. And, you’ll feel a million miles from Monday right here in Naperville.
