Teen Exploration Day: The Botany of Zelda
Trailside Museum of Natural History • River Forest, IL 60305Inspired by the Nintendo game, learn how the fictional plants of Hyrule Forest connect to our native plants. Ages 12-17.
Inspired by the Nintendo game, learn how the fictional plants of Hyrule Forest connect to our native plants. Ages 12-17.
Bring your own bike and helmet and join us on a guided ride while learning about who Marshall “Major” Taylor […]
Celebrate Women’s History Month with a guided walk and learn about women who helped shape the conservation field.
Join us on a 1.7-mile paved trail with resting points throughout. Perfect for those who use wheelchairs or have limited […]
Let’s search the muddy trails to identify what other animals are using them.
Celebrate World Water Day by focusing on how healthy aquatic ecosystems will benefit all. Enjoy the live stream on Sagawau’s […]
Celebrate the changing season and learn about Cook County’s wildlife through crafts, themed walks, refreshments and more. Drop-in.
Celebrate spring with arts and crafts inspired by the changing season. Ages 18 & up or ages 13-17 w/adult.
In partnership with Go Ape Chicago, enjoy the Treetop Nets, a nature obstacle course, and more. Food trucks and vendors […]
Celebrate Women's History Month by learning how artists made scientific discoveries accessible to society.
Walk through our sugar bush to learn about early spring insects.
Programs will address content required to achieve varying levels of nature-related cub scout adventures. Mar 24: Wolf Level Apr 28: […]
Watch this celestial phenomenon unfold into the wee hours of the morning.
Join us as we peer through a spotting scope and watch for migratory waterfowl. Ages 14 & up.
For curious minds who want to know more about the Forest Preserves, these hikes will be led at a slower […]
Enjoy time out of school with activities including archery, nature play, hikes, art, and other fun. Drop-in.
Learn what, why and how staff feed the animal ambassadors at the nature center.
Join us for a workshop covering basic camping skills.
Try a variety of outdoor recreation activities while spending school break in nature. Drop-in.
Learn the significance of spring in Native American culture while participating in various timed activities with Trickster Cultural Center.
Join us we introduce you to technology that can be used to enhance your birding experience.
Grab your camera and explore Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, one of the highest quality natural areas in the state.
Explore, discover, and create! Spend your spring break outside with several outdoor recreation activities.
Enjoy the outdoors. Put your muscles to work as you help restore habitat by removing invasive plants. Tools provided. Ages […]
The microscopic adventure through Crabtree's waters continues.
Enjoy the outdoors. Put your muscles to work as you help restore habitat by removing invasive plants. Tools provided. Ages […]
Bring your favorite optics as we walk to view our wetland arrivals.
Pick up a treasure map then decode the clues onsite.
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.