Registration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. To register for any of our programs, please fill out a registration form, or call 630-444-3190. Telephone reservations are accepted weekdays, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Program payments may be made in person (cash, check or credit card) or via mail (checks only) to:
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St.
St. Charles, IL 60175
Checks should be made payable to: Forest Preserve District of Kane County.
Programs are free unless otherwise indicated. Fee assistance is available upon request.
Most of our programs involve outdoor activities such as walking on trails. Please wear closed-toe shoes or boots (no sandals!) and long pants.
Severe weather cancels most programs. Call 630-444-3190 for program updates and cancellation announcements.
Please call us if you need to cancel, so that we may contact others on our wait list.
If you require special accommodations, please let us know at least two weeks in advance by calling the program manager at 630-649-1147. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service or activity of the District, should contact the ADA Coordinator at Voice: 630-232-5921 or 630-232-5980, TTY Relay: 800-526-0844, e-mail at ada@kaneforest.com or mail at 1996 S. Kirk Rd., Ste. 320, Geneva, IL 60134, as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours before the scheduled event.
Have you attended a recent nature program by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County? Tell us how we did. Fill-out our online Nature Program Evaluation. There, you can rate our performance as well as our facilities, suggest future program topics, subscribe to The TreeLine newsletter, and more.
Registration is required. Many programs fill up quickly, so please register early to guarantee a spot. Call 630-444-3190 or fill out this form to register.
Join a librarian from the St. Charles Public Library for read-aloud stories, finger plays, songs, and more during this fun program for children from infancy through age 5. If the weather is mild, we'll take the activities outdoors! Stay and enjoy the interactive exhibits in the Nature Center following the program and grab a take-home craft to continue the fun at your own house. For the grand finale of your storytime experience, head out to a nearby LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve trail to read a second book on the StoryWalk®! No registration required.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
In this monthly program geared for 3-5 year-olds, we'll explore the natural world through a variety of activities specific to the theme of the month. Sessions include a combination of stories, nature hikes, songs, games, or crafts. A parent or caregiver must accompany child.
Thursday, April 20; 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. "Rascally Raccoons"
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $5/child
Thursday, May 18; 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. "Spring has Sprung"
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $5/child
During summer months, we're taking our Little Saplings on a safari! This popular monthly program is geared for 3-5 year olds, but we welcome siblings up to age 8 to join the safaris. Each month, we'll travel to a unique Kane County forest preserve to explore new habitats and different sites in nature. Your child will enjoy naturalist-led hikes, water exploration, farm animal visits and experience nature at night! Get ready to discover new places and new faces! A parent or caregiver must accompany child. Please register all participating children.
Thursday, June 15; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. "A Farmer's Life"
Brunner Family Forest Preserve
18N681 Illinois 31, West Dundee
Fee: $5/child
Thursday, July 20; 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. "Creatures of the Night" *Bug spray advised.
Elburn Forest Preserve
45W061 Route 38, Elburn
Fee: $5/child
Thursday, Aug. 17; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. "Creek Critters" *Bug spray and sunscreen advised.
Glenwood Park Forest Preserve
1644 S. River St., Batavia
Fee: $5/child
Double down on your storytime fun with a Town & Country Public Library youth librarian. No registration required. Programs are located at Creek Bend Nature Center - 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles and are free.
Come join us for a night of cool aquatic science discoveries! Our naturalist will teach you the skills needed to be able to examine and dissect your own perch. You may be surprised to learn how much humans have in common with fish as we explore comparative anatomy. You'll also see first-hand the many unique adaptations that enable fish to breathe underwater and swim long distances. Each participant will receive their own specimen to dissect and a set of professional dissection tools to use during the class. This program is for youth aged 14 and above. We require registration at least two weeks prior to the program and full payment at the time of registration.
Tuesday, July 11; 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $25/child
Get out on local lakes with a professional kayak fishing instructor from Chi-Yak Adventures. Using water crafts specifically designed for anglers, you're sure to get into secret spots not reachable from shore. Whether you are looking to learn the skills involved in fishing from a watercraft or to pick up a few pointers for improving your angling skills, this is the program for you! Take one, two, or all three sessions. We will provide the paddle kayak, safety equipment, kayaking instruction and fishing gear required to get you out on the water safely and catching fish effectively! Bring your own tackle box, water, sunscreen and a snack. We require registration at least one week prior to the program and full payment at time of registration. This program is for youth entering grades 6-12.
Wednesday, July 19; 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Big Rock Forest Preserve
46W072 Jericho Rd., Big Rock
Fee: $99/person
Tuesday, July 25; 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Grunwald Forest Preserve
02S035 Lorang Rd., Elburn
Fee: $99/person
Friday, Aug. 4; 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
Fee: $99/person
Explore the woodland wonders, get your feet wet in local streams, and learn new skills during these five-day nature camps! Naturalists will lead hikes, activities, games and nature-based crafts based on a different nature theme each day. Summer camp is for three different age groups: (1) children ages 4-5; (2) children entering grades 1st through 5th; and (3) children entering grades 6th through 8th. Advance registration is required. Call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register. Detailed camp information will be provided upon registration.
Monday, June 12 - Friday, June 16; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. "Tools of the Trade: Becoming a Naturalist" (Entering grades 6th - 8th)
Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $145/child
Monday, June 19 - Friday, June 23; 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. "Nature Exploration" (Ages 4-5)
Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $145/child
Monday, June 26 - Friday, June 30; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. "Tracking & Survival" (Entering grades 1st - 5th)
Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve
41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn
Fee: $145/child
Monday, July 10 - Friday, July 14; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. "Fun & Fit in the Forest" (Entering grades 1st - 5th)
Fabyan Forest Preserve
1925 Batavia Ave., Geneva
Fee: $145/child
Monday, July 17 - Friday, July 21; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. "Nature's Super Heroes" (Entering grades 1st - 5th)
Burnidge Forest Preserve
14N035 Coombs Rd., Elgin
Fee: $145/child
Monday, July 24 - Friday, July 28; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. "STEAM in Nature" (Entering grades 1st - 5th)
Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $145/child
Take an adventure at area museums with the Passport to Adventure program. Participating sites in the Kane County Forest Preserve District include Creek Bend Nature Center at LeRoy Oakes in St. Charles, the Fabyan Villa Museum in Geneva, the Durant House Museum and Pioneer Sholes School at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles. The passport program encourages folks to visit a variety of history, nature, science and art museums to explore the people, events, and environment of the area. Children ages 4 through 12 will experience the world around them through exhibits and activities at each site they visit. The program is sponsored by the Illinois Parks & Recreation Association, the Kane-DuPage Regional Museum Association and a host of other partner agencies. Passports are available in late May at the Creek Bend Nature Center. More information about the program is available at (630) 444-3190.
Let us host a Woodland Birthday party for your child! We'll take care of the planning, entertainment and clean-up! Woodland Birthday Parties feature: An outdoor guided hike led by naturalists; a campfire; unique nature-themed party favors; use of Creek Bend Nature Center. Parties are available year-round! The fee is $100 for Kane County residents; $125 for out-of-county residents. Rate includes a party for 15 children; for more than 15 children, there will be an additional $5 per child. Call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com for more information or to book your Woodland Birthday Party today!
All ages are welcome to attend family programs unless an age limit is specified. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Organized groups must schedule a separate tour for their group. Advance registration is required. Call 630-444-3190 or fill out this form to register.
Join Naturalist Erica for a monthly circle of conversation over yarn art. Bring your own knit, crochet, or other yarn art project to work within a group of like-minded yarn enthusiasts. Share tips and patterns with others while picking up pointers and ideas from friends old and new. This new series of programs will meet monthly at the cozy Creek Bend Nature Center. Yarn crafters of all skill levels are welcome. Register for one class or the entire year! Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, April 8; 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Saturday, May 6; 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Saturday, June 3; 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Saturday, Aug. 26; 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Enjoy the changing seasons as we hike, look, and listen for the birds inhabiting our forest preserves this winter. District Naturalists will cover basic bird identification skills and share a few interesting stories along the way.
Saturday, April 2; 10:00 -11:00 a.m.
Rutland Forest Preserve
41W230 Big Timber Rd., Hampshire
FREE
Friday, May 19; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Big Rock Forest Preserve
46W072 Jericho Rd., Big Rock
FREE
Wednesday, June 7; 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve
35W003 Route 31, South Elgin
FREE
Saturday, July 22; 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve
42W855 Bahr Rd., Hampshire
FREE
Sunday, Aug. 20; 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Aurora West Forest Preserve
40W032 Hankes Rd., Aurora
FREE
Kane County forest preserves are home to more than a dozen species of frogs and toads. Our naturalist will explain the anatomical differences between frogs and toads and introduce you to our most common species. Learn how to tell one amphibian from another by call alone. Explore the pond and wetlands for the different stages of frog and toad life cycles. Leave with an understanding of how important frogs and toads are to our wetland communities.
Sunday, April 16; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Help celebrate all that Planet Earth provides us on this special day, the anniversary of our first Earth Day. Originally held on April 22, 1970, Earth Day is now an annual global event celebrated by a billion people in more than 190 different countries to demonstrate support for environmental protection and sustainability. Learn about the history and significance of Earth Day, then join a naturalist-guided hike through the springtime woodlands to pick up trash in our own effort to give back to the birthday planet.
Saturday, April 22; 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Each year, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County hosts a planting event in honor of Earth Day. We need the public's help to plant hundreds of trees on this special occasion. The District's Natural Resources staff will dig the holes, while volunteers do the planting. Come place the trees in pre-dug holes, tamp-down dirt, add water and mulch -- it's easy! Earth Day events are perfect for individuals, families, scouts or other groups. You're welcome to plant one tree, or stay and plant throughout the entire event -- it's up to you! Be sure to arrive at 9 a.m. sharp. We'll plant until 12 p.m. or until we run out of stock -- whichever comes first! Groups of 10 or more, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 630-762-2741 or email us to RSVP. Individuals or groups of less than 10 do not need to register in advance.
Saturday, April 22; 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve
35W076 Villa Maria Rd., St. Charles
FREE
*Parking is available at Anderson Elementary School, located at 35W071 Villa Maria Rd., St. Charles, IL 60174.
Pollinator species are vital to the lives of many of our local plants and animals. Come and learn about the types of animals that pollinate prairie flowers and discover why pollination is so important to all of us. We'll enjoy a walk through the tallgrass prairie looking for and admiring pollinators.
Tuesday, June 20; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Explore the nocturnal world with a naturalist! These "after hours" programs provide a glimpse into the lives of wildlife that we don't usually get to see.
Fireflies, or lightening bugs, are an iconic summer sight in Kane County. These little insects blink their messages to other fireflies and fascinate us in the process, but unfortunately, the numbers of all local firefly species are dwindling. In this evening adventure, we will learn about the science behind a firefly's glow, the life cycle of a firefly, and the threats to firefly populations. The program will conclude with a hike through a field of flashing fireflies while we net and study these bioluminescent wonders.
Thursday, July 27; 8:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Campton Forest Preserve
4N379 Town Hall Rd., St. Charles
Fee: $2/person
Few creatures evoke memories of a Midwestern summer more than fireflies. Learn about the science of bioluminescence, the ecological role that fireflies play, and ways you can help fireflies thrive and continue to bring us joy. We'll round out the evening with fun family games and catch-and-release studies of fireflies that are flittering and flashing through the darkening skies.
Saturday, July 29; 8:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Hampshire Forest Preserve
44W880 Allen Rd., Hampshire
Fee: $2/person
Get out into the night to celebrate our most important nocturnal pollinators. We'll learn about the unusual beauty, life cycles, and habitats of moths, and then head into the field to explore the fascinating moth biodiversity of LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. Prepare to be amazed as we observe some local species up close with the aid of various moth attractants.
Wednesday, Aug. 2; 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $2/person
Fingers crossed for clear skies as we look skyward for the annual Perseid meteor shower! Our naturalist will help hone your stargazing skills as we seek out the constellation Perseus and the meteors associated with it during this annual sky phenomenon. Learn about the legend of Perseus and other star lore associated with nearby constellations. Leave your flashlights at home, but bring a chair and blanket so you can relax and comfortably view the night sky.
Sunday, Aug. 13; 8:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls
40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts
Fee: $2/person
There are underwater invaders in our local streams and rivers and we want you to help us find them! Our culprit is the Rusty Crayfish, a tiny aquatic creature that is an invasive species in Kane County. Help naturalists round up some Rusty Crayfish in an effort to reduce their numbers. Families are encouraged to join us in the water with dip nets to collect, identify and remove some Rusties. You might even find the biggest of these varmints or collect the greatest number of them. Prepare to get wet! Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get muddy. We will have some dip nets to loan, but bring your own if possible. You can even create and bring your own crayfish catching invention - prizes will be awarded for the best design! This is a partnership program with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, St. Charles Park District, Fox Valley Park District, Friends of the Fox, Center for Great Lakes Literacy and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. No registration required.
Saturday, Aug. 12; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Glenwood Park Forest Preserve
1644 S. River St., Batavia
FREE
Save the date for our fall festival - Harvest of the Acorn Moon!
Sunday, Sept. 24; 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
FREE
Registration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. To register for any of our programs, please fill out a registration form, or call 630-444-3190. Telephone reservations are accepted weekdays, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Seniors are invited to join District naturalists each month to explore a different preserve and learn about the natural and cultural history surrounding the land. Dress for the weather - these outdoor programs celebrate the change in seasonal surroundings! Each meeting includes a pleasant ramble lasting about an hour, followed by social time in the shelter. No registration required for this free program.
Thursday, April 6; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Muirhead Farmhouse within Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve (Farmhouse address below)
42W814 Rohrsen Rd., Hampshire
FREE; with free-will donation
Thursday, May 4; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
FREE; with free-will donation
Thursday, June 1; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve
41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn
FREE; with free-will donation
Thursday, July 6; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve
13N240 Engel Rd., Sycamore
FREE; with free-will donation
Thursday, Aug. 3; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve
43W231 Main St., Elburn
FREE; with free-will donation
Get your 10,000 steps in during these invigorating naturalist-led hikes. This monthly program is designed for those who like active hiking all year long. We visit different preserves each month. The Naturalist will stop occasionally to interpret the ecology of the preserve as we walk - but the main goal is to cover ground! This program is for ages 18 and above.
Thursday, June 15; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve
719 Batavia Ave., Geneva
FREE
Thursday, July 20; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Oakhurst Forest Preserve
1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
FREE
Thursday, Aug. 17; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Pingree Grove Forest Preserve
14N187 US Route 20, Hampshire
FREE
Experience the healing effects of nature. Studies show that time outdoors can relieve stress, boost your immune system, improve sleep, and contribute to overall good health. During this new monthly series, we'll incorporate gentle stretching, deep breathing, and a focus on awareness during these hikes designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. This program is for ages 18 and above.
Sunday, March 26; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve (Meet at the Barn)
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Sunday, April 23; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve
41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn
FREE
Sunday, May 21; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve (Meet at Barn)
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Sunday, June 18; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Brunner Family Forest Preserve
18N681 Illinois 31, West Dundee
FREE
Sunday, July 16; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
FREE
Sunday, Aug. 13; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Fabyan West Forest Preserve
1925 Batavia Ave., Geneva
FREE
These monthly meditative walks are for anyone ages 18 and above who is grieving the loss of a loved one. The hikes are over gentle terrain, and will include poems, nature activities, and periods of silent reflection so that we can access the healing powers of nature and community. Please dress for the weather, bring a photo of your loved one(s), and wear comfortable walking shoes. Registration is suggested, but not required.
Saturday, April 15; 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Elburn Forest Preserve
45W061 Rte. 38, Elburn
FREE
Saturday, May 20; 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve
35W076 Villa Maria Rd., St. Charles
FREE
Saturday, June 17; 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Blackberry Maples Forest Preserve
43W231 Main St., Elburn
FREE
Saturday, July 15; 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Grunwald Farms Forest Preserve
02S035 Lorang Rd., Elburn
FREE
Saturday, Aug. 19; 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Campton Forest Preserve
4N379 Town Hall Rd., St. Charles
FREE
Our 2023 kayaking series begins with a beginner's lake-based paddling skills class in May. Participants will receive dry-land instruction on basic kayaking techniques from an experienced instructor and then hit the water to practice and expand upon these skills. Once you have mastered the basics of paddling, plan to join us for naturalist-guided kayaking excursions on the Fox River starting in June. Boaters must be >=16 years old and be able to hold breath under water while wearing a properly fitted life jacket, independently turn from a face down to a face-up position keeping head above water, effectively communicate with the instructor and other participants, and manage all mobility and personal care independently or with the assistance of a companion. We require registration at least 1 week prior to the program and full payment at time of registration.
Session #1: Sunday, May 21; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Oakhurst Forest Preserve - 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
Paddle Distance: Less than one mile
Skill Level: Novice Skills Training
Fee: $69/person
Tour our local waterways during these paddling adventures! Our 2023 kayaking series begins with a lake-based basic paddling skills class, followed by shorter and less-strenuous river sessions for beginners. As the summer progresses, choose increasingly longer and more technical paddles for intermediate skill levels. Each session, participants will receive dry-land instruction on basic kayaking techniques from an experienced instructor. Then we'll take to the water for a naturalist-led exploration of the fascinating local ecology. Participants meet and park at the take-out location and are shuttled to the put-in. Choose any number of sessions; you can take one, two, or all six! Boaters must be 16 years or older and be able to hold breath under water while wearing a properly fitted life jacket; independently turn from a face-down to a face-up position keeping head above water; effectively communicate with the instructor and other participants; and manage all mobility and personal care independently or with the assistance of a companion. Registration is required at least one week prior to the program and full payment is due at the time of registration. Fees: Single kayak rental - $69 for Session #1 and $85 for Sessions 2-6 (includes use of kayak, personal floatation device and paddle). Or provide your own kayak for Sessions 2-6 for $45/participant.
Session #1: Sunday, May 21; 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Oakhurst Forest Preserve - 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
Paddle Distance: Less than one mile
Skill Level: Novice Skills Training
Fee: $69/person
Session #2: Sunday, June 25; 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Voyageur Landing Forest Preserve; 50 Airport Rd., Elgin
Paddle Distance: 3-4 miles
Skill Level: Beginner
Fee: $85/person or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Session #3: Sunday, July 16; 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Ferson Creek Park; State Route 31, East of Wildrose Springs, St. Charles
Paddle Distance: 4-5 miles
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Fee: $85/person or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Session #4: Saturday, Aug. 26; 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: Ferson Creek Park; State Route 31, East of Wildrose Springs, St. Charles
Paddle Distance: 4-5 miles
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Fee: $85/person or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Session #5: Saturday, Sept. 23; 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: McCullough Park; 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Paddle Distance: 4-5 miles with portage
Skill Level: Intermediate
Fee: $85/person or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Session #6: Sunday, Oct. 8; 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Meeting Location: McCullough Park; 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
Paddle Distance: 4-5 miles with portage
Skill Level: Intermediate
Fee: $85/person or provide your own kayak for $45/person
Registration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. To register for any of our programs, please fill out a registration form, or call 630-444-3190. Telephone reservations are accepted weekdays, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
These classes about local ecology are taught by experts in the field. This award-winning program series is co-sponsored by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District, and the Geneva Park District. These programs are for ages 18 and above. Registration is required.
Despite the miles upon miles of corn planted in the Midwest, few residents understand the plant's origins or the crop's impact on modern life. In the early nineteenth century, corn was a dietary staple; it was ground into meal for baking and cooking, dried and cooked for food, and even distilled into whiskey. More commonly, though, it was fed to livestock. Corn was particularly important for fattening hogs, since pork was the meat that preserved best in early days. Today, entire industries are based on corn. From food and food additives like corn sweeteners to chemicals, plastics, livestock feeds, food supplements, and ethanol, this plant originally developed by the early peoples of the Americas is found everywhere. Farm hobbyist and corn enthusiast Chuck Bauer will share the fascinating story behind Illinois' most abundant and important crop!
Sunday, April 16; 11:30-1:00 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center/LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $10/person
Fire is one of the many helpful tools used in land management. Particularly prairie ecosystems. This LFE will take an in depth look at the role fire has played historically, and how it is used today for restoration, enhancement and maintenance of natural areas. Details on when to burn, proper technique, and all of the intricacies of implementing a burn will be discussed.
Tuesday, April 18; 6-7 p.m.
Peck Farm Park
4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva
Fee: $10/person
Join Naturalist Erica Lemon to learn about the diverse history of the land that makes up present-day Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls and the surrounding Freeman Kame Forest Preserve complex. From glaciers to horse farms to scout group campouts, Camp Tomo has seen a lot of natural and cultural change! We will start indoors with a short presentation, and then head outdoors to hike the trails and explore this beautiful preserve.
Sunday, May 7; 9:30-11 a.m.
Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls
40W095 Freeman Rd., Gilberts
Fee: $10/person
From dance hall to spiritual retreat center, Tekakwitha Woods has had a fascinating history. Learn about the cultural history, including the decades when the Sisters of Mercy lived here. This guided hike will include discussion of the ecology of the beautiful area as well.
Saturday, June 3; 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve
35W076 Villa Maria Rd., St. Charles
Fee: $10/person
Have you ever wondered how our food supply is intimately linked to climate change? Eco.Logic is an education, arts, and community building non-profit that inspires people to take tangible action to address climate change. The Executive Director of Eco.Logic, Rozina Kanchwala, will teach us about the interconnections of climate, food, farm workers, and public health and explain how our role as a consumer can impact these connections.
Tuesday, June 6; 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Barbara Belding Lodge at Brewster Creek Forest Preserve
6N921 IL Route 25, St. Charles
Fee: $10/person
Learn to identify trees when they are fully leafed out. Environmental Education Manager Barb McKittrick will begin indoors with a review of basic plant morphology and an overview of the different techniques used to examine and ultimately identify summer trees. We'll then head into the woodlands to examine leaves, bark, twigs, and fruit to identify a number of common native hardwood trees.
Saturday, Aug. 19; 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve
41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn
Fee: $10/person
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the largest, most powerful space telescope ever built. Together with leaders of the Fox Valley Astronomical Society (FVAS), we'll explore the fascinating images released by NASA from the JWST that help unlock the history, and reveal the beauty, of our universe. Our presenters will bring you the captivating story of what the JWSP is and how it works. Immediately following the presentation, we will have a star party! Our friends from the FVAS will set up telescopes outside and welcome you to observe the night sky. Weather permitting, this is your chance to directly observe planets and deep space objects that inspire a true appreciation for our dark skies. Note: this is a repeat of the sold-out program offered in December 2022.
Thursday, Aug. 17; 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Creek Bend Nature Center
37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
Fee: $10/person