Teen Exploration Day: River Kayaking 101
Schuth’s Grove • Cook County, IL 60546 (near Riverside)Learn how to kayak on moving water. Class includes a 3-mile trip down the Des Plaines River. Instruction, equipment, kayaks […]
Learn how to kayak on moving water. Class includes a 3-mile trip down the Des Plaines River. Instruction, equipment, kayaks […]
Learn about the once-in-a-lifetime double-brood cicada emergence and participate in cicada-themed activities.
Experience the African American Heritage Water Trail.
Introductory class on fly fishing. Includes basic casting instruction followed by classroom time to go over gear, rigging, knots, flies […]
Celebrate freedom, family and country with various activities, presentations, performances and exhibits highlighting Black history, arts and culture.
Celebrate the biggest party in 17 years! Make some noise with Brood XIII as you enjoy scheduled walks, presentations, exhibits, […]
Celebrate Pride Month and learn about different types of family arrangements in the animal kingdom.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Experience the African American Heritage Water Trail.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Discover the plants and animals of the preserves through exploration, games and crafts. Ages 7-11. Registration opens April 6 at […]
Stop by the visitor center to learn about animals from the residents of Misericordia - Heart of Mercy.
Join us for an evening of tagging and releasing to learn about our birds.
Join the American Indian Center of Chicago to learn the importance of the solstice to the Native community; enjoy traditional […]
Discover something new in nature with University of Illinois Extension Volunteers.
Introductory class on fly fishing. Includes basic casting instruction followed by classroom time to go over gear, rigging, knots, flies […]
Join us for a stroll looking for birds while we learn basic ID tips. All skill levels welcome.
Join us for a walk to take a closer look at Sagawau’s tallgrass prairie. Sweep Netting: Saturday, Jun 22 Pollinators: […]
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Join us for a walk to take a closer look at Sagawau’s tallgrass prairie. Sweep Netting: Saturday, Jun 22 Pollinators: […]
A program all about snakes.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Discover nature and enjoy experiences through exploration and recreation. Group 1: Ages 6-8 Group 2: Ages 9-11
Children ages 10-11 will explore the outdoors through fishing, birdwatching, insect discovery, treasure hunts and hands-on animal encounters. Snacks included. […]
Stop by the visitor center to learn about animals from the residents of Misericordia - Heart of Mercy.
Watch and learn about the glowing insects of twilight on a guided stroll.
Don’t be THAT person when you are out birding. Learn about ABA birding ethics and how to ensure other people […]
Discover something new in nature with University of Illinois Extension Volunteers.
Part bus ride, part moderate walk, experts will share a historically accurate story of “Freedom Seekers” who traveled the Underground […]
Are you afraid of snakes? Overcome your phobia by gaining a healthy understanding of these misunderstood reptiles.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Learn and practice riding techniques, including body and pedal position, shifting, braking, climbing, descending, and navigating minor obstacles on the […]
Visit our beehives and meet the beekeepers to learn about bees, pollination, and honey.
Learn more about our flighted ambassador animals and discover their unique adaptations.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Stop by the visitor center to learn about animals from the residents of Misericordia - Heart of Mercy.
Join us for an up-close look at one of our ambassador animals.
Nearly all Forest Preserves events are free; some require registration and/or a low fee. Residents may qualify for free admission opportunities at our partners: Brookfield Zoo Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Printed copies of our quarterly Events Guide are available at our Nature Centers and General Headquarters. They may also be available at your local city hall or library. Know a location that should have our Events Guide? Contact us.
Events Guide (PDF)Get free transportation to the Forest Preserves for your group.
Learn MoreSign up for the Forest Way and receive the latest Forest Preserves news, events and volunteer opportunities each month. View past newsletters.
Sign UpThe Forest Preserves is committed to providing equal, integrated participation for individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Nature Center hosting your event or program 72 hours in advance to request reasonable accommodations or inquire about site accessibility.
Please contact Experience.Nature@cookcountyil.gov or 708-771-1573 about accommodations for specific camping and outdoor recreation activities.