I am a Scientist
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Ignite your child’s sense of wonder and curiosity as we explore, experiment, and make discoveries in the natural world. Ages […]
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 […]
Join us for a “before hours” walk to experience the dawning of a new day.
Enjoy a presentation that highlights how beachcombing for rocks on the shore of Lake Michigan provides a window into the […]
Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine! Join us for a nature-inspired adventure for seniors. Ages 55 & up.
Perform songs, poetry or enjoy the live performances while overlooking the slough at sunset. All ages.
Introductory class on fly fishing. Includes basic casting instruction followed by classroom time to go over gear, rigging, knots, flies […]
Celebrate the biggest party in 17 years! Make some noise with Brood XIII as you enjoy scheduled walks, presentations, exhibits, […]
Come join us for a nature-based art activity. Ages 3-6 w/adult
Experience periodic cicadas through sound, sight and touch on a guided walk.
Join us for an evening of tagging and releasing to learn about our birds.
The time has finally come to celebrate the emergence of the 17-year cicadas! Join us on the summer solstice as […]
Introductory class on fly fishing. Includes basic casting instruction followed by classroom time to go over gear, rigging, knots, flies […]
Join us for a walk to take a closer look at Sagawau’s tallgrass prairie. Sweep Netting: Saturday, Jun 22 Pollinators: […]
Use your camera to observe nature on a guided photography walk. All levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Part workshop, part campout! Learn camping skills, then spend the night.
Join us for a walk to take a closer look at Sagawau’s tallgrass prairie. Sweep Netting: Saturday, Jun 22 Pollinators: […]
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 […]
Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
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 […]
Join The Do-Good Movement for a yoga class followed by a women’s wellness discussion based around the 31 Days to […]
Grab your camera and explore Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve with us.
Parasitoids inspired one of horror’s greatest icons, the xenomorph from the “Alien” franchise. Learn how the ecology of these insects […]
Become an amateur paleontologist and learn how to discover fossils in your own backyard while learning about the past. Ages […]
Join us for a walk to take a closer look at Sagawau’s tallgrass prairie. Sweep Netting: Saturday, Jun 22 Pollinators: […]
Wonder what species of bats live in our area? Using bat monitors, we will seek out these flying mammals while […]
Children ages 8-9 will immerse themselves in nature through hiking, field experiments and hands-on wildlife discovery. Snacks provided. Registration opens […]
This 2-hour workshop covers camping and outdoor cooking basics. Camping and cooking gear provided. All ages.
Presentation and walk to learn how to identify fireflies.
Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine! Join us for a nature-inspired adventure for seniors. Ages 55 & up.
Perform songs, poetry or enjoy the live performances while overlooking the slough at sunset. All ages.
University of Illinois Extension Certified Master Naturalists will connect visitors with nature through inquiry-based activities. Jul 12 – Grasshoppers Jul […]
Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Tools, gloves and a snack provided. Closed toed shoes and long […]
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.