more nature programs near Highland Park, IL

For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.

We provide year-round recreation experiences tailored to meet the needs of individuals with all types of disabilities. At NISRA, our mission is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities through meaningful recreation experiences. We strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Our certified staff and volunteers work closely with each individual to ensure that their interests and abilities are taken into consideration. We offer a variety of recreational activities, from bowling and adaptive sports to educational classes and leisure trips. NISRA is committed to providing accessible and engaging programming for people with disabilities. We strive to create a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all who participate in our programming. Our highly trained staff and volunteers are dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for each person that visit us. We are proud to be an extension of 13 park districts and municipal recreation departments, providing year-round recreation for the local community.

At Parents Magazine, we strive to give every young person the resources to reach their full potential. Our goal is to create a world-class Club Experience that ensures that all members have the opportunity to succeed. We want to make sure our youth have the opportunity to graduate high school with a plan for the future, while also demonstrating good character and citizenship and living a healthy lifestyle. We understand the importance of giving our young people the resources they need to reach their full potential. We work hard to ensure that all our members have the support they need to succeed in life. We want to make sure that our youth have the opportunity to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, while also developing good character and citizenship and being mindful of their health. Our mission is to provide all young people, especially those in need, with the resources they need to reach their full potential. We are committed to providing a high-quality Club Experience that helps our youth to succeed and to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, while also demonstrating good character and citizenship and taking care of their health.

PrairieArt offers an innovative way to approach art education. The curriculum combines art with academic concepts, mirroring the world-renowned drawing program developed by Mona Brookes. Every week, a new theme is presented to students, giving them an opportunity to learn about the subject they are drawing while honing their techniques. A diversity of media and techniques are available for students to explore. With individualized attention, students are able to progress at their own pace, discovering their creative potential through realistic drawing. Structural guidance is provided to ensure success while allowing enough freedom for students to express themselves.

The Bolingbrook Park District offers a wide variety of recreational activities and amenities for families in the community. Located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, the Park District is just a short 25 miles away from the city of Chicago, and serves a population of 76,272. With over 1,106 acres of land, the Bolingbrook Park District provides two community centers, an indoor/outdoor aquatic park, a golf course, a banquet facility and restaurant, a fitness center, two outdoor skate parks, a sports complex, and 50 parks with multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, and more. According to Money Magazine, Bolingbrook is one of the nation’s Top 100 Cities to Live. Residents and visitors of the Bolingbrook Park District can take advantage of the many recreational opportunities available. With all the amenities available in the park district, families can enjoy a variety of activities from picnics and sports to dining and leisurely walks. The Park District is a great place to spend quality time with family and friends.

At our organization, we understand the importance of providing a learning environment that is both fun and inclusive. We have a range of youth programs that are designed to help kids and teens grow their appreciation for animals and nature. Our classes are collaborative, so that everyone can connect and learn regardless of their background or financial situation. We are proud to offer scholarships for most of our programs so that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Our commitment to learning and education is demonstrated by our diverse range of youth programs. These programs prioritize fun and collaboration as a way for kids and teens to learn more about the animals and nature around them. We understand that not everyone has the same financial means to participate, which is why we are proud to offer scholarships. This way, everyone has the chance to benefit from our programs, regardless of their financial standing. We are proud of our commitment to learning and education, and our range of youth programs. We strive to create an environment that is both fun and inclusive, so that everyone can benefit from our classes. Scholarships are available for most of our programs, as part of our commitment to providing an opportunity for everyone to participate and learn.

The Bradley Public Library District is dedicated to providing exceptional service to the members of the community. With a focus on providing access to technology, expanding early childhood education, and encouraging a love of reading, the Library strives to help individuals reach their educational goals. As part of this mission, the Library is supported by the Friends of the Bradley Library, who advocate for the Library’s needs, and raise funds to help fund programs, services, and materials purchases. The Bradley Public Library District is a cornerstone of the community, offering friendly service, state-of-the-art collections, and enriching programs. To make sure the Library is able to support the educational growth of its residents, the Friends of the Bradley Library are committed to advocating for library services, and providing essential monetary support. Through fundraising activities, the Friends of the Library help the Library continue to provide access to technology, early childhood education, and a love of reading.

With the support of the residents, the Lemont Township Park District was established in 1963. Its mission was and still is to provide the very best parks and recreation experiences to the community while being safe and fiscally responsible. Today, the Lemont Park District continues to carry out this mission, providing the community with safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.

Since 1946, Tamarak Day Camp has been building a tradition of excellence. Our camp has a well-deserved reputation for providing quality programming, with an emphasis on swimming, beautiful grounds, and a team of experienced staff members. We are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable experience that allows your kids to develop their skills and build respect for their surroundings. The Tamarak spirit encourages kids to do their best and work together. Join us at Tamarak Day Camp to create a summer of memories!

For more than a century, Glen Ellyn Park District has been dedicated to meeting the recreational needs of Glen Ellyn residents. Our commitment to enhancing people’s lives and building a stronger community is demonstrated by our diverse offerings and facilities. We maintain 29 parks, 21 playgrounds, and 300 acres of open space that are available to everyone. Our facilities include Ackerman SFC, Lake Ellyn Boathouse, Holes & Knolls, and Sunset Pool. Our Park District offers more than 700 programs and special events for the community to enjoy. Our seasonal Playbooks list all the programs we provide, and they are accessible and affordable for everyone. Our services are tax-supported, with 45% of our operations being financed by annual taxes and the rest through user fees. Our Board of Commissioners is made up of 7 members who are elected by the community to serve 4-year unpaid terms. The mission of the Glen Ellyn Park District is to ensure that our community has access to quality leisure opportunities. Our goal is to create a harmonious blend of recreation programs, facilities, and open spaces that will continue to enhance the quality of life of our residents now and into the future.

At SSSRA, we strive to provide individuals with disabilities or special needs with the opportunity to be involved in year-round recreation. Our organization is an extension of seven park districts and three recreation and parks departments, and we are committed to promoting the power of choice and enhancing the quality of life of individuals of all abilities. Our goal is to provide accessible recreation in an environment that promotes dignity, success, and fun. At SSSRA, we understand that recreation can have a powerful impact on the lives of individuals in the community. We are continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of our community and to ensure that we provide quality resources to make a positive difference. We believe in the inherent value of recreation for everyone, no matter their abilities. Our goal is to create a safe and fun environment where individuals can explore and develop at their own pace. We strive to provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere to ensure that everyone can participate and enjoy recreation in its fullest form.

At Angelic Organics Learning Center, we believe that building sustainable local food and farm systems is key to creating a better future for our children. We work in collaboration with rural and urban people to create experiential education and training programs that enable communities to foster strong partnerships between farmers and consumers. Our goal is to create a system that respects the land and honors the people who work it, provides healthy food access as a human right, celebrates the beauty and mysteries of life and the living earth, encourages self-reliance and cooperation, and is sustainable for many generations to come. With our commitment to sustainable farming practices, we hope to ensure a brighter future for our children.

Camp Shaw has been around for 75 years and we are proud of our rich history. We strive to continue our camp traditions while also introducing new activities and opportunities for our campers. From archery to swimming, from nature hikes to arts and crafts, we have something for everyone. Our campers will gain lifelong skills and have a great time doing it. We are so proud to be part of their summer adventures!

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Whether your child is interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, JCYS offers a wide range of activities and experiences. At Jewish Council for Youth Services (JCYS), we are dedicated to helping parents and families find the right educational, recreational and leadership experiences for their children. We offer a wide range of activities and experiences designed to nurture each child’s individual spirit, imagination, confidence and talents. Our family centers, multiple summer camps and specialty programs provide families with a variety of options throughout the year. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff strive to make each program and experience meaningful and engaging. From science and art to sports and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone! Our commitment and dedication to service – and those we serve – remains constant as our programs and services continue to change and evolve to meet the demands of the community. At JCYS, we are here to help your child make the most of their time with us. Whether they are interested in honing their skills or exploring something new, our staff are dedicated to helping them discover and develop new talents and abilities!

The park system in Joliet had its start in 1899 when the City of Joliet purchased West Park (40 acres) and Highland Park (45 acres). These two parks served as the foundation for what is now the Joliet Park District. In 1920, the district was gifted 327 acres from the late Robert Pilcher, which were purchased from Harlow Higginbotham. This land is now known as Pilcher Park and is a great addition to the park district. The Joliet Park District has come a long way from the purchase of West Park and Highland Park in 1899, to the addition of Pilcher Park in 1920. It is now a thriving park system enjoyed by many local families.

At Camp Carew, we provide a setting where children and young adults can experience the Christian faith in fellowship with others. We strive to help people deepen their understanding of God, each other, and the natural world. Our goal is to help build campers’ sense of personal worth and their relationship to Jesus Christ and their peers. Camp Carew is proud to be a member of the American Camp Association and has achieved accreditation status. Our activities and programs are designed to promote Christian community and help campers build relationships with each other. Campers and leaders work, plan, play, study, sing, and worship together in the small group living units. We offer Christian summer camps for children and young adults, and host retreats for people of all ages throughout the year. Camp Carew has been serving the community since 1952. The camp is nestled on sixty acres in the beautiful woods of Little Grassy Lake, located inside the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge near Carbondale, Illinois. With this unique setting, Camp Carew provides the perfect atmosphere for strengthening faith and creating lifelong memories.

East Bay Camp & Retreat is the perfect destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in Central Illinois, only 12 miles north of Bloomington-Normal and a few minutes from Interstate 39, this beautiful retreat is situated on Lake Bloomington. With its attractive and functional facilities, East Bay provides the perfect setting for a range of activities such as team-building, fellowship, conferencing, and business. Adding to the enchanting atmosphere are the abundant wildlife sightings, including deer, wild turkeys, herons, and turtles. The 160-acre property is also home to a variety of hardwoods and evergreens, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

Little Grassy Camp and Retreat Center is an outdoor destination like no other. Located south of Carbondale, IL, on 157 acres of hills and trees, this United Methodist Church Camp and Retreat Center is a piece of nature’s beauty. Bordering a 1,000-acre Little Grassy Lake and set in the Shawnee National Forest, Little Grassy is bounded by a covenant with the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge to exercise careful stewardship of the wildlife, vegetation, and landforms. The camp provides exciting opportunities to explore and reconnect with nature. On the grounds you’ll find a hotel-style lodge with a large meeting room, a year-round youth lodge, and a dining hall with a meeting room furnished with cozy furniture and a fireplace. Plus, there are air-conditioned cabins and an open-air tabernacle, making Little Grassy a great destination for a variety of housing and meeting needs. For visitors looking for outdoor activities, Little Grassy Camp has it all - from hiking and swimming to rock-climbing and rappelling. Plus, the camp offers spiritual formation programs in the Christian tradition for both youth and adults. Little Grassy Camp is also available to rent for special events like reunions, business meetings, or youth camps. Join Little Grassy Camp and Retreat Center to explore the great outdoors and connect with nature and Christ.

Parents looking for enriching experiences for their family will find plenty to do at the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department! Adults can take part in a variety of classes, ranging from art to cooking to fitness. Seniors can join a group to play bingo or bridge. Teens can join a sports team or take part in leisure activities. And preschoolers and young children can get creative with art projects, music classes, and more. The Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department is the perfect place for families to have fun and learn together. Parents and their children can take part in a variety of activities, such as music classes, sports teams, cooking classes, and more. Seniors can socialize and join groups for bingo or bridge. Teens can explore their interests and develop their skills with leisure activities. And preschoolers can get creative with art projects. At the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department, there is something for everyone! Adults, seniors, teens, youth, and preschoolers can all experience the enriching activities offered. Take the opportunity to explore and learn together as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime.

At Fox Valley Youth, our vision is to ensure that all 46,000 youth in the area have access to a local church. We believe that spending time in a Christ-centered environment can be life-transforming. That's why we offer free overnight summer camps for youth to have the opportunity to learn more about Jesus and themselves. During the school year, our Teen Night Together (TNT) program and after-school clubs provide weekly support for teens and grade school children throughout the school year. We believe that the combination of our summer and school year programs will result in the greatest growth for all of our youth. We are committed to our mission of helping local youth in the Fox Valley, and we firmly believe that the best way to do that is to provide them with a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. We look forward to seeing the results of our efforts in the coming years.

The Round Lake Area Park District is devoted to fostering a healthy lifestyle for all. Through its diverse range of recreation programs, facilities and open spaces, the Park District is dedicated to helping local residents lead active and vibrant lives. From family-friendly parks and playgrounds to sports fields and trails, the Park District is committed to providing an array of recreational opportunities that are fun, safe and accessible. The Park District also offers a variety of programs to meet the needs of the community. These activities range from outdoor fitness classes and sports leagues to educational classes and outdoor adventure trips. Additionally, the Park District provides an array of facilities, including community centers, swimming pools, ice arenas and fitness centers. The Park District is passionate about preserving and maintaining the natural environment. The Park District’s open spaces provide the community with opportunities to explore and appreciate nature. Through education and outreach, the Park District encourages its visitors to take part in responsible stewardship of our shared natural resources. By providing quality recreation programs, facilities and open spaces, the Round Lake Area Park District is committed to making the area a great place to live, work and play.

The Skokie Park District has been providing quality programs and services to the Skokie community since 1928. Serving more than 63,000 residents of Skokie, Illinois and customers throughout Chicagoland, the district is committed to protecting natural resources, preserving historical sites, and providing thousands of unique recreational opportunities across its 240 acres of parkland. The park district is a proud recipient of the “National Gold Medal for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management,” and offers a wide range of programs and special events, including summer camps, state-licensed full-day childcare and preschool, and before and after-school care for grades K-5. Families in the community can enjoy the district’s fun and educational activities all year long. The Skokie Park District is committed to providing the best for the Skokie community. With its dedication to offering quality programs and services, the park district is sure to continue to provide recreational opportunities and experiences that will be cherished for years to come.

Bring the whole family to discover how to love and care for trees at the Morton Arboretum! With 16 miles of hiking trails and nine miles of driving and biking roads, there's something for everyone. Kids can learn about the diverse collection of trees from around the world while enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes. And you can be sure to find plenty of educational activities to keep them entertained. Open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to sunset, the Arboretum is the perfect place to spend a day or more outdoors. The Arboretum is also committed to protecting and preserving our environment. They conduct leading scientific research on tree health and improvement and collaborate with organizations throughout the region and around the world to ensure trees thrive. By visiting the Arboretum, you can be part of a greater effort to plant and conserve trees for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Make sure to check out the Arboretum’s website for more information about their mission and upcoming events.

Originally owned by the Boy Scouts Camp Heffernan, Easterseals purchased the property in 1989 and has since been working to transform it into a year-round camp and retreat center. For over sixty years, campers of all abilities have experienced the joys of camping, and have benefited from the specialized programming offered. Through the work of the Timber Pointe Charitable Foundation, the Easterseals property has become a place of fun and discovery for individuals and families alike. Offering a range of inclusive activities and adapted programming, Timber Pointe offers a truly unique and special experience for its campers.

For 95 summers, YMCA Camp Benson has been providing incredible summer camp experiences for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 17. Our innovative programming is rooted in values and facilitated by experienced, caring staff in a beautiful natural setting. We are dedicated to helping campers reach their full potential, and have created a summer camp program that helps campers learn about themselves and ultimately build character and confidence. At YMCA Camp Benson, summer camp is at our core. We believe that by spending time in the outdoors, campers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and grow in unusual and meaningful ways. Our staff is here to provide support and guidance, so campers can embrace the process of self-discovery and become the best version of themselves.

At YMCA Camp Winnebago, children of all ages can take advantage of an amazing outdoor experience. With over 160 acres of wilderness, kids can explore the natural beauty of the area, including streams, ponds, marsh, woodlands, fields, prairies and the Rock River. Children can also take part in a range of programs, such as Summer Day Camps, Youth Education Programs and Team Building & Adventure Course Programs, which emphasize the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith. Located one mile north of Rockford, Camp Winnebago is an ideal destination for your child’s summer adventure.

The Glenview Park District is a unique governing body, separate from the Village of Glenview. For nearly a century, the Park District has met the recreational and open space needs of the community through collaboration and cooperation with various governmental entities and community organizations. The Park District is dedicated to creating a harmonious and healthy community in which everyone can appreciate the environment and experience happiness and good health each day. The Glenview Park District has a long history of serving the local community. Its independence from the Village of Glenview makes it a unique governing body. Through its relationships with other governmental bodies and community organizations, it has been able to meet the recreation and open space needs of the community for almost a hundred years. The Park District is devoted to maintaining a supportive and healthy community in which all residents can find joy and well-being, and have a deep admiration for the environment. This mission is at the heart of its purpose and drives its activities each day. The Glenview Park District is an integral part of the community, providing recreational opportunities and access to open spaces for the last hundred years. Its independence and collaborations with other governing bodies and organizations have enabled it to meet the needs of the community. Above all else, it seeks to create an environment of health, happiness, and respect for the environment for everyone.

At Ivy League Kids, we believe that out of school hours are a pivotal time for children to experience growth and development that will set them up for success in school and in life. Our before and after school program focuses on fitness, recreational activities, and academic enrichment in a healthy, safe environment. Our passionate and experienced staff are committed to providing a fun-filled, rewarding program that supports the physical, mental and emotional growth of students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We strive to provide an enriching and supportive atmosphere to help children reach their full potential.

The Park District and Park Foundation are collaborating to ensure that all park district residents have access to the recreational programs. To this end, assistance is provided to those facing financial hardship. This program is available to all who live in the park district boundaries and are in need of assistance. Individuals who have special medical, physical, psychological, and/or emotional needs or receive special services from the school district are also encouraged to reach out to the Park District. The staff at Lincolnway Special Recreation Association will work with the Park District to provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities. Participants who would like to request inclusion services are asked to complete the appropriate forms provided by the Park District.

Bring your family and explore the great outdoors together. Everyone will love the breathtaking views and educational opportunities available at Pilcher Park Nature Center. Pilcher Park also offers rental services for company picnics, field trips, and overnight stays. Our catering services can provide food for any occasion. Your family and friends can relax and enjoy the scenery of Pilcher Park while learning about the importance of conservation and the environment. Experience the great outdoors and create lasting memories at Pilcher Park Nature Center. With 640 acres of land, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing, we have the perfect trail for you. Take advantage of our rental services and make your next event one to remember!

And the more they build on those skills, the more they’ll feel confident and independent. Camping is an amazing way for girls to strengthen their leadership skills, build confidence, and develop a strong appreciation for the natural world. It encourages them to put down their electronics and immerse themselves in the great outdoors. It also provides the opportunity to acquire outdoor skills that can’t be found anywhere else. These include building a campfire, putting up a tent, and canoeing across a lake. As girls gain more confidence and independence in these activities, they can better explore their leadership abilities and grow as individuals.

Parents Magazine is proud to announce the opening of Magical Minds Studio in 2008. This studio offers children 18 months and older an opportunity to experience hands-on learning through process-driven art. The studio was designed with an open floor plan to support the growth of the child, and contains a variety of creative spaces that include a maker space, ceramics studio and backyard. Reggio Emilia philosophy guides the studio’s learning activities, emphasizing exploration and collaboration. This unique environment cultivates problem solving skills in children of all ages from toddler to middle-schooler. Magical Minds Studio is a great place to nurture the curious minds of young learners.

The Darien Park District is dedicated to providing the best recreational experiences for its residents. They offer a variety of programs, facilities, and parks that meet the needs of the community. With something for everyone, from children to seniors, families can find activities that are fun and engaging. The parks and recreation facilities are well-maintained and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all to explore. The Darien Park District has created programs that are designed to enrich the lives of its residents. These programs range from arts and crafts, to health and wellness, to outdoor sports. With an experienced staff of professionals, they are able to provide quality instruction and guidance to ensure that all participants have a positive experience. The Darien Park District is committed to providing an environment that promotes healthy living, encourages social interaction, and strengthens the bond between families and the community. With their commitment to excellence, they strive to provide the highest quality recreation programs, facilities, and parks that meet the needs of all Darien Park District residents.

The Center is dedicated to helping people of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths explore their potential. We provide an environment for people to dream and grow into their fullest selves, both mentally and spiritually. Our focus is helping individuals become physically, emotionally, and spiritually alive. At the Center, we recognize that each person's journey to reach their full potential is unique. We are committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for people of all backgrounds and faiths to explore and discover their inner strength. We strive to help individuals become physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually vibrant.

As busy parents, we often forget to take a step back and appreciate the beauty of nature. Connecting with the natural world is not only beneficial for your body, mind, and soul, but also offers numerous physical and mental benefits. Stress is reduced, and your risk of illness is decreased when you spend time in the great outdoors. Plus, energy is restored and your thought processes become clearer. An added bonus is that your immunity is boosted when you immerse yourself in the sounds and beauty of nature. St. Charles is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that is worth exploring. With so many natural areas to choose from, why not plan a leisurely walk or moderate hike with your family? Not only is it a great way to bond, but you can also reap the many benefits of being outdoors. Take some time to appreciate the beauty of natural landscapes and get the most out of your time in nature.