This Old Birdhouse
Crabtree Nature Center • Barrington, IL 60010Prepare a house for the upcoming nesting season. Limited space. One birdhouse per family. $5 suggested donation. Ages 10 & […]
Prepare a house for the upcoming nesting season. Limited space. One birdhouse per family. $5 suggested donation. Ages 10 & […]
Pick up an informational guide and enjoy a self-led half mile hike to discover how native reptiles are surviving winter.
Enjoy a self-guided walk on a candlelit trail and warm up by the fire with your special someone. For Ages […]
See what makes Crabtree special on a 3-mile hike before the big game.
Learn birding basics in the warmth of our newly remodeled nature center.
Can you guess what animals have been visiting from the clues they’ve left behind? Learn about tracks, scat and more […]
Join us for our themed sessions as we explore pottery. Ages 13 & up.
Learn about the importance of Black environmentalists and how the Forest Preserves’ trails relate to the Underground Railroad Movement.
Using a microscope, let’s go on a safari through the waters of Crabtree to see all the tiny creatures busily […]
Celebrate Women’s History Month on a spring stroll discussing inspiring women who impacted our natural world.
Help us improve biodiversity and remove invasive plants. Outdoor work clothing required.
A special program for little naturalists. Read a story, make a craft, and go on an adventure. Ages 3 to […]
Cooking outdoors is easy and fun! Learn how to prepare food both over a fire and on a stove. Ages […]
Star light, star bright, soak in the sounds and stars at Crabtree tonight.
Drop in for a fun and unique scavenger hunt while discovering fascinating plants and animals.
Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Join us as we gather with a grounding exercise that explores the movement of water all around us. Participants will […]
Experience the past and present of our site through discussion and interaction.
A special program for little naturalists. Read a story, make a craft, and go on an adventure. Ages 3 to […]
Let’s search the muddy trails to identify what other animals are using them.
Learn the significance of spring in Native American culture while participating in various timed activities with Trickster Cultural Center.
The microscopic adventure through Crabtree's waters continues.
Bring your favorite optics as we walk to view our wetland arrivals.
A special program for little naturalists. Read a story, make a craft, and go on an adventure. Ages 3 to […]
Awaken your senses and renew your bond with nature. Ages 18 & up.
Watch our stewardship of cavity-nesting birds, then observe tree swallows compete for their homes.
Use our scope and sun viewers to watch the eclipse safely.
Join us for a workshop covering basic camping skills.
Learn how to use a map and compass, then practice on a 1.5-mile walk.
Come visit to see what we came up with.
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.