Nature Lens
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Use your camera to observe nature on a guided photography walk. All levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Use your camera to observe nature on a guided photography walk. All levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who want to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Learn the basics of starting a fire and explore the different types of campfires. S'mores and hot cocoa provided. All […]
Snowshoe hikes offered during any days that we have over 4” of snow! Free snowshoe rental with an ID on […]
Join a naturalist and learn how we care for our animals at the nature center. Ages 13-19.
Families, drop in and challenge yourself by climbing to the top of Swallow Cliff stairs. Then, try the story trail, […]
Help brush back the ski trails. Ages 10 & up. Weather dependent.
Enjoy a leisurely nature hike with stops at feeding stations to observe birds’ amazing winter behaviors.
A self-guided candlelit walk through our woods will delight visitors as we celebrate the shortest day of the year.
For curious minds who want to know more about the Forest Preserves, these hikes will be led at a slower […]
Enjoy the Preserves on snowshoes then learn different methods for fire building outdoors and make s’mores! Snowshoes provided; 4” of […]
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster-paced with little to no […]
Various scents can relax and soothe us. Learn about natural aromas and their healing effects. Ages 21 & up.
Children will enjoy three fun filled days with outdoor activities, art making and s’mores at the fire. Ages 9-12.
Learn to ski with a certified Professional Ski Instructor of America. Ages 12 & up. Weather dependent.
What birds are visiting the feeding station? Enjoy watching the feeders on a paved surface. Binoculars available for loan. Weather […]
Enjoy the Preserves of snowshoes. Snowshoes provided; 4” of snow required. If no snow is present, we will enjoy a […]
Watch and learn about winter birds at our feeders while playing nature-themed board games. Ages 14 & up.
Learn about some of the surprising adaptations and behaviors birds use to survive winters deep freeze with an indoor presentation. […]
Believe it or not, some insects are active through the winter. Search for these cold-hardy survivors. Ages 14 & up. […]
Give items a second life by turning them into an ornament, decoration or birdfeeder. Learn to extend the life of […]
Use your camera to observe nature on a guided photography walk. All levels and camera types. Ages 13 & up.
Come with all your cross-country ski questions! Find your answers by attending this crash course before hitting the snow. Weather […]
Join a naturalist as we discover several ways to identify trees in winter. Ages 18 & up. Weather dependent.
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster-paced with little to no […]
Learn what, why and how staff feed the great diversity of birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians at the nature center.
Will Sagawau Sam see his shadow on the ski trails this year? Ski by our outdoor exhibit to learn about […]
Learn about African-American skiers and the challenges faced in winter sports.
Join a naturalist and explore the forest. We’ll investigate animal tracks, identify deciduous trees and observe the winter birds. Grove […]
Learn how different native animals survive during the colder winter months.
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.