Volunteer Workdays
River Trail Nature Center • Northbrook, IL 60062Help us work to make River Trail even better. Ages 10 & up; under 15 w/adult.
Help us work to make River Trail even better. Ages 10 & up; under 15 w/adult.
Learn how delaying your spring clean-up can help backyard conservation.
In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, experience a story unfold along a short trail. A craft is available to […]
Explore the world of nature after the sun sets.
Learn all about primitive shelter buildings and build your own. Bring your friends! Ages 12 & up.
A walk to highlight the signs of spring.
In partnership with the American Indian Health Services Center, St. Kateri Center, Trickster Cultural Center, American Indian Center-Chicago, and the […]
Learn how to dress, act and live as a frog.
A night of outdoor games, trivia, and nature play. BYOB (no glass). Ages 21 & up.
Learn the basics of bird watching. Ages 8 & up.
Get up close with live birds of prey.
Learn about spring woodland wildflowers on a casual walk.
Walk & Talk hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Join us as we gather with the healing sounds of singing bowls in the forest and explore the sounds of […]
An evening walk to learn about nocturnal animals at River Trail.
Help us work to make River Trail even better. Ages 10 & up; under 15 w/adult.
Join the second oldest continual canoe race in the United States! The race begins at Oak Springs Road in Libertyville […]
Join us for an exciting outdoor event that bridges cultures, connects newcomers to nature and celebrates the spirit of adventure! […]
A walk to highlight the signs of spring.
Learn the basics of archery. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Engage in creative, imaginative, and child-directed, outdoor free-play as a family. In partnership with The Alliance for Early Childhood and BackYard Nature Center.
Learn bicycle basics, simple maintenance, and safe riding skills then explore the North Branch Trail. Family-friendly. Limited loaner bikes upon request. In […]
Nature stories, crafts, and activities. Children ages 3 to 6 with adult.
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Learn about the once-in-a-lifetime double-brood cicada emergence and participate in cicada-themed activities.
Pick up a treasure map then decode the clues along the trails to find the un-buried treasure.
Enjoy the lingering daylight on the longest day of the year with stories, songs and s’mores around the campfire.
Discover something new in nature with University of Illinois Extension Volunteers.
A program all about snakes.
Nature stories, crafts, and activities. Children ages 3 to 6 with adult.
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.