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COVID-19: Events, Locations & Precautions

illustration of the COVID-19 coronavirus from the CDC
Illustration from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).

Last Updated: February 28, 2022

Prepare for your visit by reviewing information related to your destination or activity, along with our visitor precautions and guidelines.

We are working with the Cook County Department of Public Health and the Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security to follow the latest COVID-19 related guidelines and best practices for prevention.

Sign up for Cook County COVID-19 text alerts. Text AlertCook to 888-777 on your mobile device to opt-in and receive the latest COVID-19 alerts and information from the new AlertCook Cook County public health and safety messaging service.

General questions about COVID-19 in Cook County? Call (708) 633-3319 or email ccdph.COVID19@cookcountyhhs.org. The hotline and email address are staffed between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday – Friday.


Visitor Precautions & Guidelines

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly all Forest Preserves sites have remained open as a resource for fresh air, exercise and access to nature. Please follow these guidelines to ensure your visit to a preserve or time on the trail is as safe as possible.

  • The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) recommends wearing a mask at large indoor events or any other crowded indoor public setting where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
  • Use Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) guidelines on hygiene before, during and after your visit:
    • Do not visit the Forest Preserves if you are sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
    • Wash your hands before and after visiting.
    • Carry and use hand sanitizer if you touch surfaces like handrails.
    • Cover your coughs and sneezes (preferably with a disposable tissue).
  • Help us by carrying any trash out with you, particularly used tissues, food wrappers, masks and gloves.

To learn more about stopping the spread of COVID-19, read the CDC’s prevention strategies.


Location Closures

Before visiting, always check if a location is open on our web map or by visiting the location’s page on our website. Closure notices appear in both places.


Public Events

Check our Events Page for more information about specific events.


Permitted Events, Picnics & Room Rentals

There are no COVID-19 related capacity restrictions for outdoor permitted events and picnics or indoor room rentals.

Permit offices at our General Headquarters are open for limited hours. An appointment is required and can be booked online.

Refunds will only be issued in the event that state or local COVID-19 public health guidelines require the Forest Preserves to cancel your permit. Late and change fees will not apply.


Camping

There are no COVID-19 related campsite capacity restrictions. Visit the Camping Page to book a campsite.


Chicago Botanic Garden & Brookfield Zoo


Resources

Sign up for Cook County COVID-19 text alerts. Text AlertCook to 888-777 on your mobile device to opt-in and receive the latest COVID-19 alerts and information from the new AlertCook Cook County public health and safety messaging service.

General questions about COVID-19 in Cook County? Call (708) 633-3319 or email ccdph.COVID19@cookcountyhhs.org. The hotline and email address are staffed between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday – Friday.


President Preckwinkle COVID-19 Executive Orders