Periodical Cicadas: Special Exhibit
Periodical cicadas return to Northeastern Illinois. This special exhibit will help answer your buzzing questions about periodical cicadas.
Periodical cicadas return to Northeastern Illinois. This special exhibit will help answer your buzzing questions about periodical cicadas.
Enjoy the outdoors. Put your muscles to work as you help restore habitat by removing invasive plants. Tools provided. Ages […]
Programs will address content required to achieve varying levels of nature-related cub scout adventures. Mar 24: Wolf Level Apr 28: […]
For curious minds who want to know more about the Forest Preserves, these hikes will be led at a slower […]
Join us this Pride Month for a self-guided interpretive walk to learn about LGBTQ2S+ people in conservation.
Clean water supports a biodiverse ecosystem. Help us survey Sagawau’s creek to see what life it supports. Ages 12 & […]
Join us for stories told by the Naperville Chinese Storytime group and enjoy nature-based art and activity afterwards. Supplies provided. […]
We’ll search for nests and nesting activity. Bring binoculars or borrow ours.nestnes
Ignite your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity as we explore, experiment, and make discoveries in the natural world. Ages […]
This 2-hour workshop covers camping and outdoor cooking basics. Camping and cooking gear provided. All ages.
Enjoy climbing and kayaking in this program specially designed for individuals with a primary physical disability or visual impairment.
Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Tools, gloves and a snack provided. Closed toed shoes and long […]
Enjoy a presentation that highlights how beachcombing for rocks on the shore of Lake Michigan provides a window into the […]
Celebrate the biggest party in 17 years! Make some noise with Brood XIII as you enjoy scheduled walks, presentations, exhibits, […]
The time has finally come to celebrate the emergence of the 17-year cicadas! Join us on the summer solstice as […]
Part workshop, part campout! Learn camping skills, then spend the night.
Use your camera to observe nature on a guided photography walk. All levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
A nature-related scout adventure will be offered and achieved. Jun 23: Wolf Level Jul 28: Bear Level Aug 25: Webelos […]
Children ages 10-11 will explore the outdoors through fishing, birdwatching, insect discovery, treasure hunts and hands-on animal encounters. Snacks included. […]
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Enjoy the fresh air and put your muscles to work as you restore ecosystems. Tools and safety gear provided. Age […]
Are you afraid of snakes? Overcome your phobia by gaining a healthy understanding of these misunderstood reptiles.
Enjoy the fresh air and put your muscles to work as you restore ecosystems. Tools and safety gear provided. Age […]
Learn and practice riding techniques, including body and pedal position, shifting, braking, climbing, descending, and navigating minor obstacles on the […]
Ignite your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity as we explore, experiment, and make discoveries in the natural world. Ages […]
Parasitoids inspired one of horror’s greatest icons, the xenomorph from the “Alien” franchise. Learn how the ecology of these insects […]
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.