R.I.P. Stewardship
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center • Willow Springs, IL 60480Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Equipment provided. Ages 17 & up.
Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Equipment provided. Ages 17 & up.
Help us work to make River Trail even better. Ages 10 & up. Children under 15 w/ adult. Register by Nov […]
Learn about seed dispersal techniques and spend time collecting native seed for our restoration areas. Come early and participate in […]
Learn about Trailside’s outdoor birds of prey as they enjoy their lunch! Family program.
Build your own walking stick using buckthorn, an invasive species. Ages 12 & up.
Walk & Talk Hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Join us for a “before hours” hike to experience the dawning of a new day.
Learn about Chicago’s ancient history through fossils. Indoor presentations followed by a visit to the fossil reserve quarry.
Ever wonder why we intentionally set fires in spring and fall? Come learn how prescribed fires help manage ecosystems.
Travel through time as we open our sugar shack and learn about the history of maple syrup. Register by 11/7.
Learn more about our flighted ambassador animals and discover their unique adaptations.
Join us at feeding time to learn about our outdoor ambassador animals and their habits.
Humans have many uses for plants. On Veterans Day, we will observe how they were used in the military.
Stop by the visitor center to learn about reptiles, mammals, and birds from the residents of Misericordia - Heart of […]
Learn about nature through music, movement, stories, and artmaking. Ages 2-5 w/adult. Sep 11: Gardening Oct 9: Changing Colors Nov […]
Stop by our information table and learn about the animals that call Cook County home.
Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine! Join us for a nature-inspired adventure for seniors. Ages 55 & up.
Discover the natural world with a themed activity. Ages 55 & up.
Attend this session to learn the basics of archery. Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up.
Stop by our information table and learn about the animals that call Cook County home.
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.
Today marks the start of Picnic & Outdoor Event Permit sales for 2025. Cook County residents and visitors can now reserve a spot for celebrations—such as birthdays, reunions, holidays and special events—while surrounded by nature in the Forest Preserves of Cook County.