Will County Forest Preserve Programs
Here are the Forest Preserve District of Will County programs for the week of May 12. Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org.
These Books Are Made for Walkin’: 6-7 p.m. Monday, May 13, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. This nature-themed book club in partnership with Three Rivers Public Library in Channahon allows participants to discuss a book of the month while strolling the trails. Ages 14 or older; free. Register by May 11.
Nature Play Day After Hours – Spring Color Wheel: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Encourage creativity and exploration during unstructured outdoor play. Ages 3-5 with adult; free. Register by May 11.
Where the Wildflowers Are: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 15, Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve, Monee Township. Hike with a naturalist to explore spring wildflowers and hear the stories and lore behind them. This is part of a series showcasing Will County’s wildflower displays. Ages 10 or older; free. Register by May 13.
Adopt a Native Plant – Shade: 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. Learn about shade-loving native plants and adopt three to take home. Ideal for those looking to transform shaded yards. Ages 16 or older; $5 per person. Register by May 14.
Adult Fishing Derby: 7-11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 17, Hidden Lakes Trout Farm, Bolingbrook. Compete for prizes in this annual derby, with two morning sessions and giveaways for early registrants. Bring your own gear; one container of nightcrawlers provided. Ages 16 or older; $5 per person. Registration required; day-of spots may be available.
Birds and Blooms: 8-9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 17, McKinley Woods – Frederick’s Grove, Channahon. Celebrate spring with a guided hike to spot warblers and wildflowers. Ages 10 or older; free. Register by May 16.
Lake Renwick Migratory Bird Viewing: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, May 17, Lake Renwick Heron Rookery Nature Preserve, Plainfield. Witness herons, egrets and other birds during the protected nesting season. Staff and volunteers will assist at the viewing platform. Saturday viewing programs will be offered through Aug. 9. All ages; free. No pets or bikes allowed.
Forest Bathing: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 17, O’Hara Woods Preserve, Romeoville. Experience a guided mindfulness walk using the Japanese practice of forest bathing. Ages 16 or older; free. Register by May 15.