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.

Afternoon Paddle on the Canal

Explore the North Shore Channel by canoe along McCormick Street on an autumn afternoon. Basic instruction will be provided, so beginners are welcome. Meet at the Dammrich Rowing Center. Please note, life jackets are supplied and must be worn for your safety. Call Emily Oaks Nature Center at (847) 677-7001 with questions.
Afternoon Paddle on the Channel
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/11
1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Dammrich Rowing Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$29.00 / $36.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Des Plaines River Canoe Trip

After brief instruction, paddle the Des Plaines River along the rivebanks and woodlands of the Lake County Forest Preserve greenbelt where wildlife abounds. Equipment and transportation provided. Bring a packed lunch,
Des Plaines River Canoe Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/27
8:00 am- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$60.00 / $75.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Canoe the Channel

Explore the North Shore Channel along McCormick Boulevard on an introductory canoe adventure with your family. Canoes can hold up to two adults and two children at least 6 years or older. All canoe equipment will be provided. Meet at the Dammrich Rowing Center boat launch. Fee is per person.
Canoe the Channel - Family
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/13
1:30 pm- 4:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$16.00 / $20.00
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
9/20
3:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 99
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 trip within a 30-minute drive. Hikes will be moderately paced. This is a great opportunity to socialize, exercise and enjoy the wonders of autumn outdoors. Transportation is by passenger van; participants can meet at the trailhead, if desired.
Hiking Club: Millard Park & Beach
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/12
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: Turnbull and McDonald Woods
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/26
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: Old School Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/31
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: Memorial Park Cemetery
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/10
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

Autumn Outing to Morton Arboretum

Explore the beautiful gardens, world-renowned plant collections, prairie and woodlands, and current outdoor sculptures at Morton Arboretum in Lisle. Our day includes rambling three to four miles of trails, lunch in the Ginko Cafe, and a tram ride through the Arboretum. Admissions, tram tickets, trail snacks, and transportation by van are provided. Lunch in the Ginko Cafe is not included.
Autumn Outing to Morton Arboretum
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/20
8:00 am- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$50.00 / $63.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Rambling Trip to White Pines

Enjoy autumn in the pine and hardwood forests of White Pines State Park in Oregon, Illinois, while walking moderately challenging park trails along rocky ridges and across meandering streams. Leisurely three to four-mile hike. Fee includes buffet lunch at the lodge. Transportation provided.
Rambling Trip to White Pines
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/25
7:00 am- 6:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$65.00 / $82.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Openlands Lakeshore Ramble

One of the last remaining ravine and bluff ecosystems in the region, Openlands Lakeshore Preserve in Highland Park includes Lake Michigan shoreline, a wooded ravine walk, and blufftop prairie paths. Expect to ramble three to four miles at a leisurely pace. Transportation by van and trail snacks provided.
Openlands Lakeshore Ramble
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/1
1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$24.00 / $30.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Devil's Lake Hiking Weekend

Located in the Baraboo Range of Wisconsin, Devil's Lake State Park contains 500-foot bluffs of quartzite bordering the scenic lake. Glacial moraines, glens and gorges, and features like Devil's Doorway and Balanced Rock are found throughout the 10,000-acre park. Expect to hike four to six miles each day over terrain that is often steep and rocky with many stone steps. Lodging is provided at a Baraboo hotel, and the fee is based on double occupancy. All restaurant and trail meals are included, except lunch on Friday. Registration deadline: 9/27
Devil's Lake Hiking Weekend
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/2-10/4
10:00 am- 7:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$479.00 / $479.00
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: 9/19-9/20
Family Campout at Emily Oaks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/18-9/19
6:00 pm-10:00 am
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$27.00 / $34.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Campout for Kids

Kids will pitch tents, explore Emily Oaks at night, roast marshmallows over a campfire, and play games. Friday evening snacks and breakfast on Saturday are provided. The Visitor Center is available as an indoor location in case of inclement weather.
Campout for Kids
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/2-10/3
6:00 pm-10:00 am
AGES
8 - 11
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$36.00 / $45.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Flannel Fest

Just for adults! Wear your favorite flannel shirt and celebrate fall with an evening of campfires, live music, and a sampling of local beers. Participants must be 21 or older.
Flannel Fest
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/6
7:00 pm- 9:00 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $31.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Folk Songs & 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 and traditional folk songs and then make s’mores. Fee is per person.
Folk Songs & S'mores Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/25
7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Apple Extravaganza Campfire

Join us for an all-about-apples extravaganza! We’ll play apple games, tell an interactive apple story, make an apple craft, and prepare a delicious apple treat to eat around the campfire. Fee is per person.
Apple Extravaganza Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/3
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
5 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$7.00 / $7.00
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable
Register

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 wintery s'mores.
Glow Gnomes Campfire
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
12/19
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 season! Participants journey to a different national park each week and get to know the special features of each. The club meetings take place outdoors; indoor space is available during inclement weather. Van transportation from school provided by Emily Oaks staff.
After School Nature Club - Middleton
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/14-11/16
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$112.00 / $140.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - Park View
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/15-11/17
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$112.00 / $140.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - East Prairie
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/17-11/19
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$112.00 / $140.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Fall Family Play Day

Drop in anytime for self-guided, nature-based play at Emily Oaks to celebrate fall! Go on a leaf scavenger hunt, hop through the leaves, and participate in other creative play options. 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.
Fall Family Play Day
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/23
4:00 pm- 5:30 pm
AGES
0 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $10.00
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
11/21
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

Fungus Families

Bring your family to learn about fungal families! We will explore different types of fungus, discover what their jobs are in nature, and even find some great examples in the woodland.
Fungus Families
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/13
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
5 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $12.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Weaving with Nature

Learn to weave on a portable loom that you can bring outside! A naturalist will teach about weaving and the historical plant and animal sources for yarns and dyes. Try out some different ways to weave in nature and bring home your own weaving.
Weaving with Nature for Kids
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/20
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $13.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Blue Plant Magic

Explore the magic of Japanese indigo! Participants will learn how and why plants make color and experience the magic of the indigo oxidation (turning blue before your eyes!). Participants will process fresh Japanese indigo and dye small drawstring pouches. Participants will also learn about shibori, a Japanese indigo dyeing technique, and will shibori dye a cotton bandana.
Blue Plant Magic
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/27
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $32.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Eco-Printing

Learn about eco-printing from a naturalist, and use leaves, flowers, roots, and bark to make patterns on cloth. You will also discover how color came to be in nature and how people use color from the natural world in sustainable ways. Everyone will take home their own eco-printed project.
Eco-Printing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/25
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
8 - 12
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $32.00
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
12/2
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
12/3
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

Eco Printing

Learn about eco-printing from a naturalist. Participants will use leaves, flowers, roots, and bark to make patterns on cloth. Participants will also hear about how color came to be in nature and how people use color from the natural world in sustainable ways. They will take home their own eco-printed item.
Eco Printing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/4
10:00 am-12:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $32.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Weaving With Nature

Learn to weave on a portable loom that you can bring outside! A naturalist will teach about weaving and the historical plant and animal sources for yarns and dyes. Try out some different ways to weave in nature and bring home your own weaving.
Weaving with Nature
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/4
2:00 pm- 4:00 pm
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$15.00 / $19.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Natural Indigo Dyeing

Explore the magic of Japanese Indigo! Participants will learn about how and why plants make color and experience the magic of the indigo oxidation (turning blue before your eyes!). Each participant will process fresh Japanese indigo and dye a small item. Participants will also learn about shibori, a Japanese indigo dyeing technique, and shibori dye a cotton bandana. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Natural Indigo Dyeing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/26
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
10 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$25.00 / $32.00
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.
Ukulele for Campfires
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/10-10/29
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

Emily Oaks Book Club

Discuss engaging nature-themed book with others. The group meets around a campfire, weather-permitting, or indoors. September: "The Feather Detective" by Chris Sweeney tells the fascinating and remarkable true story of the world's first forensic ornithologist, Roxie Laybourne, who broke down barriers for women, solved murders, and investigated deadly airplane crashes with nothing more than a microscope and a few fragments of feathers. October: "The Genius Bat: The Secret Life of the Only Flying Mammal" by Yossi Yovel brings to vivid life these amazing creatures as well as the obsessive and sometime eccentric people who study them--bat scientists.
Emily Oaks Book Club--"The Feather Detective"
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/23
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--"The Genius Bat"
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/28
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

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
9/26
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: 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

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: 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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