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.

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
5/13
6:30 pm- 9:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Dammrich Rowing Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$26.00 / $33.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Kankakee River Canoe Trip

Paddling at a leisurely pace, we'll enjoy the wildlife, wide-open vistas and rock outcroppings along the riverbanks of the scenic Kankakee River, one of the cleanest rivers in Illinois. A basic instructional course will be conducted, so no previous canoeing experience is required. All equipment and transportation provided. Bring a packed lunch. Please note: Life jackets will be supplied and must be worn for your safety.
Kankakee River Canoe Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/17
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
5/31
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

Boats and Beats

Canoe on the pond while listening to live music. We will start with canoe instruction and then families can paddle the pond and be serenaded by a live music duo. Fee is per person. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Boats and Beats
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/31
1:30 pm- 3:00 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
4/24
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
6 - 10
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
5/1
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
5/8
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
5/15
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
Let's Go Canoeing!
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/22
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 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 spring outdoors. Transportation is by passenger van; participants can meet the group at the trailhead, if desired.
Hiking Club: River Trails Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/9
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: Graceland Cemetery
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/4
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: Greene Nature Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/16
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

Warren Woods & Dunes Ramble

This trip to Michigan features trails at two nearby state parks: Warren Woods with its old growth beech/maple forest and array of spring wildflowers, and Warren Dunes State Park with three miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 260-foot sand dunes! Plan to hike about five miles of moderate to challenging trails. Van transportation provided.
Warren Woods & Dunes Ramble
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/3
7:00 am- 6:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$36.00 / $45.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Preschooler Sleepunder

This is just for little ones who are too young to sleepover, plus their grown-up. Enjoy tent building, a nature hike, and a campfire with s’mores. Have fun like the “big kids” get to do! Per-person registration.
Preschooler Sleepunder
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/24
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$8.00 / $10.00
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, campfire supplies and food provided. Fee is per person, and adults must register. Rain dates: 5/16-5/17
Family Campout at Emily Oaks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/15-5/16
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
5/1-5/2
6:30 pm-10:00 am
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$36.00 / $45.00
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
2 - 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 10. 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
4/12
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

Growing Sprouts Play Day

A celebration just for current Growing Sprout families to spend some time together before we say farewell for the summer. We will have live music with a professional children's musician and a rowboat ride for Sprouts. A fun send-off for the Growing Sprouts class of 2026! Fee is per family, register your Growing Sprout. Limit 4 per family group.
Growing Sprouts Play Day
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/21
5:30 pm- 7:00 pm
AGES
3 - 5
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$15.00 / $15.00
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
4/6-5/11
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$72.00 / $90.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - East Prairie
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/9-5/14
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$72.00 / $90.00
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)
$37.00 / $46.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Neurodiverse Nature Trail --Birds

Our nature trail is designed for varying needs. This bird-themed nature trail will include opportunity for choice of activity, sensory awareness, and other ways to help everyone celebrate their curiosity. 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 family.
Neurodiverse Nature Trail
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/9
10:00 am-11:30 am
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
5/23
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

Eco-Printing

Join a naturalist to learn about natural dyeing and printing with plants. Use wood, roots, leaves, and berries to print on a cotton bandana that you'll take home.
Eco-Printing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/4
10:00 am-12:00 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Natural Weaving for Teens

Draw inspiration from nature and learn to weave on a beginner-friendly, portable loom. Participants will take home their own small tapestry project and loom.
Natural Weaving for Teens
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/10
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
10 - 15
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Sketching & Watercolors

Take a hike and learn how to capture what you see by sketching, and then use watercolors to add a splash of color! Art instruction provided by our naturalist staff and all materials provided.
Sketching & Watercolors
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/15
4:30 pm- 6:00 pm
AGES
10 - 15
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Weaving With Nature

Draw inspiration from nature and learn to weave on a beginner-friendly, portable loom. Participants will take home their own weaving project and loom. All materials provided.
Weaving With Nature
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/26
3:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Let's Go Stargazing!

Let's head to Lake County where the night skies are dark to view stars, planets, Messier objects, and the Lyrid meteor shower! See spring celestial constellations and "shooting stars," as well as planets and nebulas through telescopes. Dress for the weather. Cloud date: XX.
Let's Go Stargazing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/17
8:00 pm-10:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$24.00 / $30.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Watercolors and Wine

Make a nature-inspired watercolor painting while you sip! Each participant will create one art piece while enjoying a glass of wine. Materials and beverages provided. Participants must be 21 years or older.
Watercolors and Wine
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
5/8
7:00 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$40.00 / $50.00
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 - "The Book of Hope" by Jane Goodall is an intimate and thought-provoking dialogue of one of the most sought after and least understood elements of human nature: hope. May - "Flight Paths" by Rebecca Heisman is the never-before-told story of how a group of migration-obsessed scientists in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries engaged nearly every branch of science to understand bird migration--from where and when they take off to their flightpaths and behaviors, their destinations and the challenges they encounter getting there.
Emily Oaks Book Club--April
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/22
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
5/20
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
4/4
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

Family Volunteer Day

A great opportunity for families to volunteer together at Emily Oaks. This is a unique chance to learn about our conservation efforts and get some "hands-on" experience. Tools and safety gear will be provided. This event is free, but registration is required. Children must at least 9 years old and accompanied by a registered adult.
Family Volunteer Day
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
4/25
10:00 am-11:30 am
AGES
9 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$0.00 / $0.00
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 and transportation provided. Bring a packed lunch to eat along the river.
Fox River Canoe Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/2
7:00 am- 6:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$72.00 / $90.00
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 summer outdoors. Transportation is by passenger van; participants can meet the group at the trailhead, if desired.
Hiking Club: Don Wirth Hiking Trail
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
6/20
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: Bohemian National Cemetery
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
7/18
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: Camp Pine Woods
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/15
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

Trivia Night Campfire at Emily Oaks

Test your earthy knowledge at this nature-based trivia night. We will round out the evening with a campfire and s'mores. For adults 18 & up.
Trivia Night Campfire at Emily Oaks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/18
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $12.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Camp Songs & S'mores Campfire

Join us for an evening singing fun and familiar songs around the campfire! Follow along on song sheets as we sing camp favorites, and then roast marshmallows over the fire and make s’mores.
Camp Songs & S'mores Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
6/27
7:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Sketching and Sketchbook

Try nature journaling while enjoying Sketchbook beers! We will gather around a campfire, taste test some Sketchbook Brewing Company beers, and try our hand at nature sketching. All participants must be 21 or older. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors.
Sketching and Sketchbook
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/15
6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $31.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Book Club

Gather around a campfire and discuss nature-themed books. July: "Diary of a Young Naturalist" by Dara McAnulty chronicles a year spent observing the wildlife of Northern Ireland. In between lyrical descriptions of encounters with blackbirds, hen harriers, frogs, dandelions, bats and Irish hares, he offers insights into the everyday struggles of a teenager living with autism. August: “Frog Day" by Marty Crump leads readers on a worldwide field trip in search of frogs. Each chapter covers a single frog during a single hour, highlighting how twenty-four different species spend their time.
Emily Oaks Book Club: Diary of a Young Naturalist
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
7/22
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
Emily Oaks Book Club: Frog Day by Marty Crump
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/26
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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