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 2024–25!

growing-sprouts-sm

Monday/Wednesday/Friday
September 4, 2024 to May 23, 2025
Full Day (9:30A-3:30P) Residents: $4,418 • Non-residents: $5,523
Half Day (9:30A-12P or 1-3:30P) Residents: $2,209 • Non-residents: $2,761

Tuesday/Thursday

September 3, 2024 to May 22, 2025
Full Day (9:30A-3:30P) Residents: $3,149 • Non-residents: $3,936
Half Day (9:30A-12P or 1-3:30P) Residents: $1,575 • Non-residents: $1,969

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

 

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.

Snowshoe Clinic

Learn about the different types of snowshoes available, which style is right for you, basic snowshoeing techniques, and how to dress for snowshoeing during this indoor/outdoor workshop. If conditions permit, snowshoes will be used briefly outdoors. Dress for the weather.
Snowshoe Clinic
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/4
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Winter Outing to Starved Rock

Starved Rock State Park near Utica, Illinois is a winter wonderland with frozen waterfalls, sandstone bluffs topped with snow, and Bald Eagles feeding in the open waters of the Illinois River. Hike the moderate to challenging park trails and enjoy spectacular vistas, deep canyons, and ice-sculpted cascades. Brunch at the lodge is included in the trip fee.
Winter Outing to Starved Rock
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/12
7:00 am- 6:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$65.00 / $81.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Snowshoe Ramble

Snowshoe the trails at Half Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills, trekking through woodlands, restored prairie, wetlands, and along the Des Plaines River. We’ll snowshoe or hike at this preserve as conditions permit. Snowshoes and van transportation provided. Lunch at a cafe restaurant is not included in the fee.
Snowshoe Ramble to Half Day Woods
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/8
9:00 am- 1:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$28.00 / $35.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

This ramble begins with a visit to Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve near Barrington, where we'll walk three miles of trails leading through marshes, oak groves and grasslands. After a delicious lunch included in the trip fee, we'll conclude the day at Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve and hike about a mile through restored grasslands and around the Buffalo Creek reservoir.
Winter Ramble & Brunch--Cuba Marsh
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/23
9:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Hundreds of feet beneath the sandstone-capped ridges of Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky lies the most extensive known cave system on Earth, with more than 400 miles of passageways mapped and surveyed. Explore this mysterious underground world of cavernous rooms, winding passages, flowstone and dripstone formations, 50-degree temperatures, blind fish and cave crickets. The trip includes three different cave tours, ranging from easy to challenging due to many stairs and steep hills. On the surface, we'll hike the park trails and possibly take a paddle down the Green River that flows through the park. Lodging is provided through Mammoth Cave Hotel; fee is based on double occupancy. All meals are included except lunch on Saturday and dinner on Tuesday at a roadside restaurant. Transportation is by van. Registration deadline: 3/1/25.
Mammoth Cave Park
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/8-3/11
7:00 am- 8:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
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 winter outdoors. Transportation is by passenger van; participants can meet the group at the trailhead, if desired.
Hiking Club: Heller Nature Center
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/4
9:30 am-12:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: West Ridge Nature Park
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/18
9:30 am-12:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: North Park Village Nature Center
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/1
9:30 am-12:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: Sunset Woods Park
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/22
9:30 am-12:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Hiking Club: Somme Woods Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/1
9:30 am-12:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$14.00 / $18.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Starry, Starry Night Fireside

Gather ‘round the fireplace for stories and songs about winter stars and the nighttime sky. Then make your own star finder and head outdoors to search the night sky for winter constellations! Hot chocolate and snacks are included. Dress for the outdoors.
Starry, Starry Night Fireside
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/1
6:30 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Groundhog Day Fireside

Discover what Groundhog Day is all about when you meet our guest of honor, a five-foot tall groundhog! Learn what it means when the groundhog sees its shadow, hear the secrets of its amazing winter life, and step outdoors to visit its home. Dress warmly for the weather. Then make your own groundhog shadow puppet while sipping hot chocolate indoors.
Groundhog Day Fireside
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/2
2:30 pm- 4:00 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Glow Gnomes Campfire

Celebrate the first day of winter and the first day of the annual Gnome Hunt by searching for gnomes in the dark, with the help of glow necklaces the gnomes will be wearing for the occasion! Then end your evening with a campfire and snacks. Registration opens December 1.
Glow Gnomes Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/21
6:30 pm- 7:30 pm
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

After School Nature Club

Explore the natural world, learn new skills, be creative, and have fun with friends after school this winter! A portion of the club meetings takes place outdoors. Van transportation available from school to Emily Oaks.
After School Nature Club - Middleton
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/6-3/10
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$145.00 / $181.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - East Prairie
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/9-3/13
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$145.00 / $181.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Winter Wonder-fun!

Play and discover the fun in our winter wonderland! Depending on outdoor conditions, activities may include snow painting, ice sliding, snow treasure hunting, rainbow chip searches, and animal tracking. Activities change each time we meet. We’ll end our winter play days with a cup of hot cocoa.
Winter Wonder-fun!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/12
10:30 am-11:30 am
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Winter Wonder-fun!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/9
10:30 am-11:30 am
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Winter Wonder-fun!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/2
10:30 am-11:30 am
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Seed Starting 101

Make the most of your available space and prolong the growing season by starting some of your garden favorites from seed. We’ll discuss seed selection and storage, germination requirements, and how to care for your seedlings once they emerge. Starter vegetable seeds included.
Seed Starting 101
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/26
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Crop and Garden Planning

Learn from Matt Ryan, Garden Manager at Evanston High School and founder of Interseed, how to maximize a garden of any size with three successions of crop planting. Matt will cover garden design, germination, plant spacing and sequencing, companion planting, and cold weather plants. Bring a layout of your yard and begin work on your garden design in class.
Crop and Garden Planning
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/5
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$24.00 / $30.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Caring for Your Houseplants

Caring for houseplants is a great winter hobby! Whether in a house or apartment, houseplants beautify and brighten your home, help clean the indoor air, and connect us to other living things. How to get started growing houseplants, tips and tricks for keeping them healthy, and plant care resources are included. Go home with a starter cutting!
Caring for Your Houseplants
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/22
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Natural Landscape Design

Get started landscaping your yard using native flowers, shrubs, and trees. Use this workshop as a jumping off point to transform your yard to a native plant oasis. We will discuss first steps to design a naturally landscaped yard, where to purchase native plant materials, which plants grow best in specific conditions, and how to attract wildlife with natural plantings.
Natural Landscape Design
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/19
7:00 pm- 9:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Flower Pounding Valentine Cards

Learn the art of flower pounding to make beautiful Valentine’s Day cards, using real flowers and rubber mallets to create unique designs. Price is per person; each person makes their own card. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Flower Pounding Valentine Cards
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/8
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Flower Pounding Valentine Cards
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/8
10:30 am-12:00 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable
Register

Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing is the practice of reconnecting with nature through mindful, immersive walks. During our time together outdoors, you will experience a series of guided invitations to use your senses to connect with the natural world. The walk concludes with sharing tea around a campfire.
Forest Bathing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/26
8:00 am-10:00 am
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$16.00 / $20.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Ukulele for Campfires

Mitch Thomas, musician and teacher, will show you how to put a sing-along together in this eight-week series that culminates in a campfire performance. A limited number of instruments are available to borrow. Participants should have a knowledge of basic chords.
Ukulele for Campfires
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/30-3/20
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$160.00 / $200.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Book Club

Cozy up by the fireside and discuss an engaging book with others. This program will be held indoors. January: "What an Owl Knows" by Jennifer Ackerman joins scientists in the field and explores how researchers are using modern technology and tools to learn how owls communicate, hunt, court, mate, raise their young, and move about from season to season. March: "The Light Eaters" by Zoe Schlanger takes us on a deep immersion into the drama of green life and the complexity of this wild and awe-inspiring world that challenges our very understanding of agency, consciousness, and intelligence.
Emily Oaks Book Club: What an Owl Knows
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/29
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

In Search of Sandhill Cranes

Our trip by van will take us to a stopping area of the migrating Sandhill Cranes -- the Jasper Pulaski Wildlife Area in Indiana -- where we’ll be able to see great numbers of these large birds. We’ll walk trails to view the cranes in the fields and as they fly to their roosting site at dusk. Dinner at a roadside restaurant is included.
In Search of Sandhill Cranes
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/23
10:00 am- 9:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$60.00 / $75.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Evergreen Wreaths

Learn techniques for making a beautiful evergreen wreath and go home with a fabulous winter decoration ready to be displayed. All materials are included.
Evergreen Wreaths
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/4
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
14 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Waitlist
Register
Evergreen Wreaths
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/5
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
14 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Waitlist
Register

Evergreen Gnomes

Make a winter gnome decoration using fresh evergreens! Each family will go home with a gnome to compliment your winter decor. All materials are included. Fee is per family. Register only one family member.
Evergreen Gnomes
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/8
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
9 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register


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