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

Please note that while classes may display below as available, registration does not open until the following dates:
•  Winter: December 15 for residents, December 22 for non-residents
•  Spring: March 15 for residents, March 22 for non-residents
•  Summer: May 15 for residents, May 22 for non-residents
•  Fall: August 15 for residents, August 22 for non-residents

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.

Glow Gnomes Campfire

Celebrate the beginning of winter and the first day of the annual Gnome Hunt by searching for a select group of 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.
Glow Gnomes Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/20
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

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
12/3
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$37.00 / $46.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Evergreen Wreaths
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/4
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$37.00 / $46.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
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
12/6
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
9 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$37.00 / $46.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

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
2/3
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
1/11
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 Harms Woods Nature Preserve, trekking through a restored woodland and along the North Branch River. We'll snowshoe or hike at this Cook County Forest Preserve as conditions permit. Snowshoes, van transportation and hot cocoa provided.
Snowshoe Ramble--Harms Woods
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/8
1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$28.00 / $31.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Winter Ramble and Lunch

We'll begin with a visit to Grant Woods Forest Preserve near Lake Villa, walking three miles of trails through marshes, oak groves and grasslands. Lunch follows at Reflections on Deep Lake, featuring Polish-American cuisine, and is included in the trip fee. The ramble concludes at the northern unit of Grant Woods with a hike of about a mile.
Winter Ramble & Lunch--Grant Woods
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/29
9:00 am- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$59.00 / $74.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Hiking Club

Meet other hikers while experiencing the best local hiking trails. You’ll be led on a morning 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: Chipilly Woods Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/3
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: Everett Farm Nature Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/17
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: LaBagh Woods Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/31
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: Prairie Wolf Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/21
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: Skokie River & Oriole Grove Preserves
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/7
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: Village Green & Techny Prairie Parks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/21
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

Winter Camp-In for Kids

We'll pitch our tents indoors, explore Emily Oaks outdoors at night, roast marshmallows over a fire, and play games in the morning. Saturday evening snacks and breakfast on Sunday are provided. A supply list will be emailed prior to the sleepover.
Winter Camp-In for Kids
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/24-1/25
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

Stuffed Animal Sleepover

Bring your favorite stuffed animal to Emily Oaks before 4 p.m. on Friday, January 23 or March 13. Your friend will stay for a night of fun and adventure! Then return on Sunday for a self-guided winter 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
1/25
11:00 am-12:00 pm
AGES
2 - 8
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/15
11:00 am-12:00 pm
AGES
2 - 9
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Starry, Starry Night Fireside

Gather indoors 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
2/28
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

Owl Moon Fireside

Hear the delightful story, “Owl Moon,” about a young girl who goes owling with her father in winter, and learn how to “whoo, whoo” like Great Horned Owls searching for a mate. We’re headed outdoors to call to the owls, so dress for the weather. The fireside concludes with hot chocolate and a look at owl pellets. Part of this event takes place outdoors, weather permitting.
Owl Moon Fireside
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/21
6:00 pm- 7:30 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
2/1
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

Board Game Bonanza

Learn to play beautiful board games based on nature like Wingspan, Planted, Everdell, and Tinderblox! Try them out before buying them for the nature lover and gamer in your life. Board games, instruction, and snacks provided by Emily Oaks staff.
Board Game Bonanza
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/19
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
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
1/12-3/23
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
1/15-3/19
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
1/10
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
2/7
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
3/7
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

Composting with Worms

Worms are nature’s recyclers, breaking down everything from grass clippings to banana peels. Worm composting keeps food out of the landfill and results in a nutrient-rich, organic soil amendment. Learn how to make and maintain your own beginner worm bin to take home, complete with starter worms.
Composting with Worms
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/11
7:00 pm- 8:15 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
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
2/4
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
2/25
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$24.00 / $30.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Insect Hotel

An insect hotel is a great way to help support our native insects, and we'll show you how to build and care for your very own. Create a habitat that insects will use for years! All materials provided. Each family will make one insect hotel.
Insect Hotel
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/17
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
9 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$64.00 / $80.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Upcycled Backpacks

Kids will make backpacks using old t-shirts that they will decorate and take home with them. We will provide all the materials - you just need to provide your creativity!
Upcycled Backpacks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/10
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Upcycled Cosplay

Learn how to make your own epic costumes out of recycled materials. The costumes are perfect to add to your own cosplay, prepare for Purim, or make just for fun!
Upcycled Cosplay
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/22
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Kokedama Workshop

Kokedama is a Japanese gardening practice that uses no pot, suspending an ornamental plant in a ball of soil and moss to create a unique plant display. Learn to make and care for your kokedama in this workshop. All materials are provided.
Kokedama Workshop
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/21
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$40.00 / $50.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Flower Pounding Valentine Cards

Learn the art of flower pounding to make beautiful Valentine’s Day cards, using real flowers and small hammers to create unique designs. Price is per person; each person makes two cards. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Flower Pounding Valentine Cards
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
2/7
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$12.00 / $15.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
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
1/25
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

The Domes of Milwaukee

Enjoy nature indoors at the Mitchell Park Conservatory, where you’ll experience a desert oasis, a tropical jungle, and special floral gardens in The Domes. Three beehive-shaped glass structures 85 feet high, The Domes feature the deserts of Africa, Madagascar and the Americas in the Desert Dome; over 1,200 species of plants and colorful birds in the Tropical Dome; and themed displays in the Floral Show Dome. Fee includes transportation by van, admissions, and dinner at a local restaurant.
The Domes of Milwaukee
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
3/15
8:00 am- 4:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$60.00 / $70.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Ukulele for Campfires

A great class for ukulele players with a knowledge of basic chords looking to hone their skills. 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. Sing-along is held Friday, March 20, 7-8 p.m.
Ukulele for Campfires
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/29-3/19
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 in the visitor center and discuss an engaging book with others. This program will be held indoors. January: "Night Magic" by Leigh Ann Henion invites us to leave our well-lit homes, step outside, and embrace the dark as a profoundly beautiful part of the world we inhabit. March: "The Liars of Nature and the Nature of Liars" by Lixing Sun explores the evolution of cheating in the natural world, revealing how dishonesty has given rise to wondrous diversity.
Emily Oaks Book Club: Night Magic
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
1/28
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


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