Nature

nature

Emily Oaks Nature Center offers a tremendous variety of outdoor programming for all ages. Evening campfires, canoeing, adult outdoor adventure trips, and local geocache treasure hunts are among the many programs offered.

Art Show & Sale: American Jewish Artist's Club – Nature's Treasures

info-icon2 Lee Hansen at LAHansen@SkokieParks.org

Outdoor Adventure Parties are offered for ages 3 and above at the Emily Oaks Nature Center. For more information on birthdays at Emily Oaks, click here.

Growing Sprouts 2025–26

growing-sprouts-sm

Non-refundable first payment: $60

Monday/Wednesday/Friday
September 3, 2025 to May 22, 2026
Full Day (9:30A-3:30P) 
Residents: $484/month • Non-residents: $607/month
Half Day (9:30A-12P or 1-3:30P) 
Residents: $239/month • Non-residents: $300/month
Lunch Bunch for Half Day Participants (12–1P): $104/month

Tuesday/Thursday

September 2, 2025 to May 21, 2026
Full Day (9:30A-3:30P)
Residents: $338/month • Non-residents: $424/month
Half Day (9:30A-12P or 1-3:30P) 
Residents: $166/month • Non-residents: $209/month
Lunch Bunch for Half Day Participants (12–1P): $73/month

This early learning program combines traditional preschool activities with outdoor discovery and exploration. A majority of your child’s day will be spent naturally learning through outdoor play. Children will use tools to conduct simple science experiments; learn about plants, animals and habitats; observing the changing seasons; and play freely in nature. Please note: The T-TH class has repeated content from the M-W-F class. Children must be toilet-trained. Call Emily Oaks at (847) 674-1500, ext. 2500 for deposit and billing information. 

Growing Sprouts Photo Tour
Growing Sprouts Orientation Video
Growing Sprouts Parent Handbook

Register here

 

Emily Oaks offers educational programs for children in preschool–6th grade. Our dynamic staff create engaging outdoor learning adventures that motivate students to actively pursue these outcomes:

  • Understanding key ecological concepts
  • Developing positive feelings for the natural world
  • Promoting lifestyles that are more in harmony with the earth and its life

Group size is limited to 30 participants per activity. Minimum fees apply to groups of 10 students or less. Payment is due at the time of your visit.

For more information email School Program Coordinator, Cassie Schaeffer.
For a brochure of activities, click here. 
To schedule your school group, call Emily oaks at (847) 674-1500, ext. 2500.

Emily Oaks offers outdoor skills and nature exploration to earn scout badges. Reservations are required for all groups, so please make reservations as early as possible. 

For more information e-mail School-age Program Coordinator, Cassie Schaeffer.
For a full brochure of scout activities, click here.

Twilight Paddle on the Channel

Explore the North Shore Channel by canoe along McCormick Boulevard as nighttime falls on a spring evening. Basic instruction provided, so beginners are welcome. Meet at the Dammrich Rowing Center. Please note: Life jackets will be supplied and must be worn for your safety. Call Emily Oaks Nature Center at (847) 674-1500, ext. 2500 with questions.
Twilight Paddle on the Channel
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/14
6:30 pm- 9:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Dammrich Rowing Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $31.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Fox River Canoe Trip

After brief instruction, paddle the Fox River, one of the most scenic sections of river in Illinois, and enjoy the spectacular sandstone bluffs and rural countryside along the way. Equipment, transportation, and lunch provided.
Fox River Canoe Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/18
7:00 am- 6:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$70.00 / $88.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Can You Canoe?

After a basic instructional course on canoeing safety and skills, paddle your own canoe around the pond and participate in a fun game. Canoes hold up to two adults and two children. Fee is per person; please register for one section only.
Can You Canoe?
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
6/1
10:00 am-12:00 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$12.00 / $15.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Can You Canoe?
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
6/1
1:30 pm- 3:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$12.00 / $15.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Let's Go Hiking!

Prepare for a fun hiking adventure at Emily Oaks! Learn how to prepare for a hiking trip, play fun hiking games, and enjoy a trailside treat.
Let's Go Hiking!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/11
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
6 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Let's Go Build a Fire!

Learn how to build an A-frame fire! Each participant will learn how to safely build and light their own fire, then use that fire to roast a marshmallow or two.
Let's Go Build a Fire!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/18
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Let's Go Geocaching!

Use GPS, a map, and clues to find all six hidden caches around the Emily Oaks trails!
Let's Go Geocaching!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/25
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
6 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Let's Go Canoeing!

Learn how to canoe on the Emily Oaks pond! In this workshop you will learn canoe safety, how to paddle, and get some real experience paddling your own canoe!
Let's Go Canoeing!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/9
4:00 pm- 6:00 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$12.00 / $15.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Hiking Club

Meet other hikers while experiencing the best local hiking trails. You’ll be led on an hour-long hike at a different natural area each week within a 30-minute drive. Hikes are moderately paced to ensure the full enjoyment of the surrounding natural world. This is a great opportunity to socialize, exercise and enjoy the wonders of spring outdoors. Transportation is by passenger van; participants can meet the group at the trailhead, if desired.
Hiking Club: Linne Woods Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/26
9:30 am-12:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: Rosehill Cemetery
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/12
9:30 am-12:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: Harms Woods--West
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/17
9:30 am-12:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Illinois Beach Ramble

With over six miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Illinois Beach State Park in Zion offers a variety of scenic vistas -- including dunes, swales, marshes and oak forests -- as well as unique plant life ranging from prickly pear cactus to wild blue lupine. Plan to hike about three miles. Transportation by van provided. Bring a packed lunch.
Illinois Beach Ramble
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/10
9:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Ramble to Messenger Woods

A Will County Forest Preserve renowned for its spectacular spring wildflowers, Messenger Woods in Lockport features 750-acres of rich woodlands, meandering creeks, and hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. Plan on rambling three miles of trails at a leisurely pace and enjoying the expanses of Bluebells, Trillium and Blue-eyed Marys along the way. Bring a packed lunch. Transportation by van is provided.
Messenger Woods Rambling Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/4
9:30 am- 4:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Family Campout at Emily Oaks

Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows and sing songs around a campfire, participate in fun nighttime activities, and enjoy breakfast outdoors. Tents, cooking supplies and food provided. Fee is per person, and adults must register. Rain dates: 5/17-5/18.
Family Campout at Emily Oaks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/16-5/17
6:30 pm-10:00 am
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$27.00 / $33.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Campout for Kids

We’ll pitch tents, explore Emily Oaks at night, roast marshmallows over a campfire, and play games in the morning. Tents and food will be provided; bring your own sleeping bag and personal gear. The Visitor Center is available as an indoor location in the event of inclement weather.
Campout for Kids
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/3-5/4
6:30 pm-10:00 am
AGES
8 - 11
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$36.00 / $45.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Nature Nightcap

Gather 'round a campfire as we share moon stories from around the world while sipping on moon-themed cocktails. Participants must 21 or older. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be moved inside.
Nature Nightcap
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/10
7:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$18.00 / $23.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Spring Sing & S'mores Campfire

Join us for an evening of singing, clapping and strumming around the campfire! Follow along on song sheets as we sing lively nature tunes and then make s’mores, a traditional campfire treat. Fee is per person.
Spring Sing & S'mores Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/23
7:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Stuffed Animal Sleepover

Bring your favorite stuffed animal to Emily Oaks before 4 p.m. on Friday, April 11. Your friend will stay for two nights of fun and adventure! Then return on Sunday for a self-guided hike using a photo journal to see what your stuffed animal was up to while you were away. Pre-registration is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult on Sunday.
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/13
10:00 am-11:00 am
AGES
2 - 8
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Parents' Night Off

Treat yourself to an evening out! The nature center staff will lead fun, nature-related activities for the kids while you are away, like group games, crafts and a hike outdoors. Dinner and s’mores will be provided.
Parents' Night Off
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/2
5:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
5 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

After School Nature Club

Explore the natural world, learn new skills, be creative, and have fun with friends after school this spring! Participants will “journey” to a different national park each week and get to know the special features of each. The club meetings take place outdoors. Transportation from the respective school to the nature center will be provided.
After School Nature Club - Middleton
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/31-5/12
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$102.00 / $127.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - East Prairie
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/3-5/15
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$102.00 / $127.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Spring Family Play Day

Drop in anytime for a day of nature play to celebrate the spring season! Take a walk in the woods while exploring and participating in fun activities along the way. Stay as long or as little as you would like for this engaging, self-directed outdoor play day. Fee is per family; an adult must attend.
Spring Family Play Day
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/4
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
0 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Container Gardening

Make the most of your small space and grow a garden on your deck, patio or balcony, with no yard required! Learn how to cultivate your own fresh ingredients for homemade salsa or your favorite herbs right outside your kitchen window. Starter plants included.
Container Gardening
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/14
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Veggie Garden in a Box

Garden with your little ones in a little space. Learn the basics of starting a container veggie garden and go home with seedlings that will grow in a window box or patio. Fee is per family. Register one family member.
Veggie Garden in a Box
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/18
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$30.00 / $38.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Birding Fun for Families

Flock to Emily Oaks to enjoy this popular outdoor activity with your entire family! Includes an indoor slide show, resources on prime bird watching locations, and a walk outdoors to hone our bird observation skills. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars and a field guide, if you own them. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fee is per child.
Birding for Families
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/10
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
9 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $12.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Wildflower Walking Tour

Stroll through the Nature Center with your morning coffee mug while a naturalist gives an informal introduction to the various spring wildflowers seen along the trails.
Wildflower Walking Tour
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/24
9:00 am-10:30 am
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $9.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Botany Basics

Review botanical terms, plant parts, plant families, and introductory plant identification. We will also cover resources helpful in learning plants, then head outdoors to test our new skills along the nature center trails.
Botany Basics
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/24
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing is the practice of reconnecting with nature through mindful, immersive walks. During our time together, you will experience a series of guided invitations to use all of your senses to connect with the natural world in spring. The walk concludes with a sharing circle and herbal tea.
Forest Bathing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/6
8:00 am-10:00 am
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$18.00 / $23.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Nature Journaling

Learn the essentials of keeping an illustrated nature journal to deepen your observations of and connection to nature wherever you may find it. No drawing or journaling experience is necessary to begin this expansive practice of curiosity and exploration.
Nature Journaling
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/20
6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Nature Painting

Create a watercolor piece inspired by the beauty of Emily Oaks. Learn techniques to transform what you see into a work of art. Materials included.
Nature Painting
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/19
10:00 am-11:30 am
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $32.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Book Club

Gather at the nature center to discuss natural history writings. Class may be held indoors or outdoors depending on weather. April - "Bird Day: A Story of 24 Hours and 24 Avian Lives" by Mark E. Hauber shows readers exactly how birds spend an hour of their time, highlighting twenty-four different bird species from around the globe. May - "Oak Origins: From Acorns to Species and the Tree of Life" by Andrew L. Hipp takes us through a sweeping evolutionary history, stretching back to a population of trees that lived more than 50 million years ago.
Emily Oaks Book Club--April
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/17
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Emily Oaks Book Club--May
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/15
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Volunteer Information Session

Interested in volunteering? Come to our information session and learn how volunteers support and advocate for Emily Oaks Nature Center and our mission of building relationships with the natural world. There is no fee for this event.
Volunteer Information Session
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/6
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$0.00 / $0.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register


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