Woodcock Watch
Country Lane Woods • Cook County, IL 60480 (near Willow Springs)Join us as we listen and watch the magical courtship display of the male woodcock.
Join us as we listen and watch the magical courtship display of the male woodcock.
Watch our stewardship of cavity-nesting birds, then observe tree swallows compete for their homes.
Support your gardens by building a beehouse for local native pollinators.
Whose tracks are in the mud? Join us for the hunt and learn about tracks along the trails.
Make a simple musical instrument or bring your own and join the jam!
Use our scope and sun viewers to watch the eclipse safely.
Watch this rare natural phenomenon here! Telescopes ready for viewing.
Learn about a partial solar eclipse and view the eclipse through a special solar telescope and eclipse glasses (weather permitting).
Join us as we seek out spring migrants. Binoculars available for loan.
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster paced with little to […]
Learn about nature through music, movement, stories and artmaking. Ages 2-5 w/adult. Mar 13: Gold Hunt Apr 10: Butterflies May […]
Join us for a workshop covering basic camping skills.
Walk & Talk hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Let nature inspire art! Try your hand at different crafts suitable for people of all abilities.
Learn of the native plants while developing basic embroidery skills. Supplies provided.
All skill levels welcome. Materials provided. Ages 15 & up.
Overnight training course to learn skills needed to plan and lead group camping trips. Covers safety, day-hiking, tent and stove-set […]
Join the Village of Palos Park and the Forest Preserves for a family-fun day of fishing. Prizes awarded.
Observe bird feeder activity as we make origami animals such as bunnies, insects and birds, including your own favorite animal!
In partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, explore the world of lichens by learning about this symbiotic partnership. […]
Walk & Talk hikes are for the curious mind who wants to know more about the Forest Preserves and natural […]
Fitness Hikes are for those looking to get some exercise outdoors. Fitness hikes will be faster paced with little to […]
Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Supplies provided. Age 17 and up w/adult.
High school students: learn why it’s important to keep natural spaces free of trash. Help pick up litter and earn […]
Learn how to use a map and compass, then practice on a 1.5-mile walk.
In partnership with UIC Arab American Cultural Center and Arab American Family Services, have fun learning about Arab American culture […]
Come visit to see what we came up with.
This leisurely walk will highlight wildflowers along a paved driveway.
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.