The Forest Preserve District of Will County began selling 2023 picnic and camping permits on Tuesday, January 3, online at ReconnectWithnature.org, at the Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet, as well as other visitor centers, except Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook, which began on January 4.
What can you do in the Forest Preserve District of Will County in winter? A lot! To learn more, check out these upcoming programs, including a webinar on winter recreation in the preserves. Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org. Here is the lineup…
Winter Recreation, Zoom Webinar, from 6-7 p.m., Wednesday, January 11: This program features information on hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and wildlife viewing in the preserves. Free, ages 16 or older. Register online for the Zoom link.
Volunteer Morning, from 9 a.m.-noon, Thursday, January 12, Riverview Farmstead Preserve, Naperville: Get some fresh air and exercise while helping to make a difference in the community. Activities include removing invasive woody plants. Space is limited, and registration is required. To get started, complete a waiver online at ReconnectWithNature.org. For information, contact Emily Kenny at 815-722-7364 or volunteerservices@fpdwc.org.
Morning Bird Hike, from 8-10 a.m., Saturday, January 14, Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township: Get your 2023 bird list started with a hike and join other birders to learn, explore, and search for winter residents in the preserve. This hike highlights birds that spend their winters in the woodlands and fields. Bring binoculars and favorite bird guide. New birders are welcome. Free, ages 16 or older. Register by January 13.
Cocoa or Joe Hike, from 9-10 a.m., Sunday, January 15, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Bolingbrook: Embrace the cold and quiet winter morning with a guided hike around the nature center. After the hike, visit the fire and sip a complimentary cup of hot cocoa or joe. Free, all ages. Register by January 12.
Little Explorers – Colors of Winter, from 10-11:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 18, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon: Bring preschoolers to Four Rivers to explore the colors of winter with a story, hike, hands-on activities, crafts, and free play. Dress for indoor and outdoor activities. Free, ages three/five. Register by January 17.
Take a Break with Woodpeckers, Zoom Webinar, from noon-12:30 p.m., Friday, January 20: Grab lunch and enjoy a quick, 30-minute program about woodpeckers. Learn about the types of woodpeckers one may see this season and how to attract them to your backyard. Free, ages 10 or older. Register online for the Zoom link.
For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.