The Gate

The Gate is a historical object of local lore and legend. It was featured in a well done (but now retired) multi-cache by Mr. Charlie- https://coord.info/GCYMYT Check out that cache page which describes the legend well.

The verified history of this property includes the Doddridge Farm and Budd Memorial Home for Children, Boy Scouts of America Camp Doddridge, The Catholic Youth Organization Girls Summer Camp, and the St. Francis Camp for Boys.

At its peak, there were approximately 30 buildings on 200 acres, including a chapel, dining hall, living quarters, infirmary, assembly hall, library, and a large outdoor swimming pool, water tower, and playground. Some ruins of these buildings and structures can still be found in the area along the Des Plaines River Trail.

There are various articles written by local historical societies & libraries which details much of the history. One such article can be found here- https://www.cooklib.org/behind-the-gate/

You are searching for a micro size cache within Independence Grove Forest Preserve. DO NOT park on River Road- you may be ticketed or towed.