About Heller Nature Center in Highland Park, IL

At the Heller Nature Center, you can explore 97 acres of natural beauty, including oak-hickory forests, tallgrass prairie, oak savanna, and wetlands. There are three miles of trails, perfect for those who would like a peaceful escape. If you’re looking for a more exciting experience, the Heller staff plans seasonal nature excursions, educational programs, canoe trips, and nature lectures. Summer camps include rock climbing and white-water rafting. In August, you can participate in harvesting the 500+ pounds of honey from the Heller bees. The Nature Center is also a great place for families. Wander Woods is a playground designed for kids, and the StoryTrail is a fun self-guided adventure. There is also a team course for groups. The trails are wheelchair accessible, with a crushed stone surface on the red, green, and blue trails and a woodchip surface on the yellow trail. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day!

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What kind of kids we support

  • Coed
  • Preschool
  • Kids
  • Tweens

Amenities

  • Lake
  • Infirmary
  • Playground
  • Internet Access
  • Sports Court/Field

Programs at Heller Nature Center in Highland Park, IL

a person in a pink jacket in a forest
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Cozy Campfires

Take a short hike with a naturalist along the trails, play games with family and friends and enjoy marshmallows roasted over the campfire!

a person and two children in a field of flowers
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AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Discover the wonders of Lake Michigan and our varied lakefront habitats, such as the dunes, ravines and bluffs through exploration, experimentation, and fun! The program is entirely outdoors so please dress for the weather.

a couple of children playing with a bucket of water
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Dino Dig

Make a discovery as we excavate the sand in search of fossils and dinosaur eggs. Put together the bones like a puzzle and see what roamed this area in the age of dinosaurs.

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Location and contact information

2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park, IL, 60035