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 2022–23!

growing-sprouts-sm

Monday/Wednesday/Friday
September 7, 2022 to May 26, 2023 (93 classes)

Tuesday/Thursday
September 6, 2022 to May 25, 2023 (67 classes)
 

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. Children must be toilet-trained. Please note: The T-TH class has repeated content from the M-W-F class. 

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.

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) 674-1500, ext. 2500 with questions.
Afternoon Paddle on the Canal
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/22
1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Dammrich Rowing Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$29.00 / $36.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Canoe the Channel

Explore the North Shore Channel along McCormick Street on a 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
9/8
1:30 pm- 4:30 pm
AGES
6 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$16.00 / $20.00
AVAILABILITY
Unavailable
Register
Canoe the Channel - Family
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/29
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

Rambling Trip to Volo Bog

Volo Bog State Natural Area in northwestern Lake County features a by-product of the last glacier, a rare wetland bog community where unusual plants grow, like tamarack trees, floating mats of sphagnum moss, and carnivorous pitcher plants. Leisurely three to four-mile hike. Transportation provided.
Ramble to Volo Bog
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/20
9:00 am- 5:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
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
9/14
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
9/28
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 Prairie Grove
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/5
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

Giant City Overnight Hiking

Located near Carbondale, Illinois, in the Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is named for its massive sandstone structures and bluffs. Expect to hike five to seven miles each day over terrain ranging from easy to challenging at Giant City and other Shawnee locations. Accommodations are provided at the state park lodge, and the trip fee is based on double occupancy. All lodge meals and transportation are included. Registration deadline: 11/1.
Giant City Hiking Weekend
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/10-11/12
8:00 am- 8:00 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$375.00 / $375.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Rambling Trip to Ethel's Woods

Named after Ethel Untermyer who directed a successful referendum campaign in 1958 to form the Lake County Forest Preserve District, Ethel’s Woods has undergone a dramatic restoration of North Mill Creek that took 12 years to complete. Plan on rambling three to four miles of easy trails. Bring a packed lunch; van transportation provided.
Ethel's Woods Rambling Trip
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/3
8:30 am- 4:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
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
10/13
10:00 am-11:30 am
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, cooking supplies and food provided. Fee is per person, and adults must register. Rain dates: 9/7-9/8.
Family Campout at Emily Oaks
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/6-9/7
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
10/4-10/5
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

Nature Nightcap

Just for adults! Celebrate fall with an evening of campfire stories and songs topped off with nature-inspired cocktails. Participants must be 21 or older. In the event of rain, the program will be moved inside to the program room.
Nature Nightcap
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/26
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$18.00 / $23.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Hibernation Hoedown

It’s hibernation time! We will learn about hibernation, have campfire snacks, and learn some square dance moves to celebrate the ways woodland animals survive the winter. Fee is per person. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Hibernation Hoedown
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/28
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
2 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
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
9/14
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
10/6
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
2 - 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. There will be tables for adults only, kids only, and for families to play together. Board games, instruction, and snacks provided by Emily Oaks staff.
Board Game Bonanza - Adults
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/2
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
Board Game Bonanza - Kids
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/2
6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
AGES
6 - 17
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$5.00 / $6.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

After School Nature Club

Explore the natural world, learn new skills, be creative, and have fun with friends after school this fall! 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 school provided by Emily Oaks Staff.
After School Nature Club - East Prairie
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/12-11/21
3:15 pm- 5:00 pm
AGES
6 - 10
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$124.00 / $155.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register
After School Nature Club - Middleton
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/9-11/18
3:00 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
11/10
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
0 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$10.00 / $10.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Tabletop Terrariums

After learning the history of the craft, a naturalist will guide you step-by-step through the creative process during this hands-on terrarium workshop. All materials provided. Pre-registration is required by 11/10.
Tabletop Terrariums - Adults
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/13
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

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
11/16
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

Walking Tree Tour

This casual hike with a staff naturalist will introduce you to the historic trees at Emily Oaks and share some basic tree identification skills. Bring your own travel mug for coffee or tea supplied by the Nature Center.
Walking Tree Tour
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/5
9:00 am-10:30 am
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
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
Available
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
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
12/8
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

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. The walk concludes with sharing herbal tea around a campfire.
Forest Bathing
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/27
8:00 am-10:00 am
AGES
18 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$15.00 / $19.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Peace Meditation

Guided by an instructor from the Peace School in Chicago, learn a meditation technique that celebrates the earth and spend time in the calming influence of nature.
Peace Meditation
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/28
8:00 am-10:00 am
AGES
16 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$20.00 / $25.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Meet & Greet: Illinois Raptors

Learn about the incredible lives and features of raptors and meet several different species of native birds of prey. Staff from Wings and Talons will share the work they do and will bring live birds of prey for an up-close-and-personal experience. This event will take place indoors. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Fee is per person.
Meet & Greet: Illinois Raptors
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
11/3
10:00 am-11:30 am
AGES
4 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$12.00 / $15.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Ukulele for Campfires

Mitch Thomas, musician and teacher, will show you the basics of the ukulele in this eight-week series which culminates in a campfire performance. A limited number of instruments are available to borrow. All levels welcome.
Ukulele for Campfires
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/5-10/31
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

Woodland Drumming Circle

This is a fun-filled opportunity for folks in the community to come out and meet neighbors and to discover what Emily Oaks has to offer. Guided by Tony Toneji Garrett, you will learn about drumming circles and try drums and hand percussion instruments. Bring your own drum or try one of ours. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Woodland Drumming Circle
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/15
1:30 pm- 3:00 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$4.00 / $4.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Book Club

Bring a lawn chair, cozy up to a campfire, and discuss an engaging book with others. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. September: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is an exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope, tracing a widow's unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus. October: Eating to Extinction by Dan Saladino is the prominent broadcaster’s pathbreaking tour of the world’s vanishing foods and his argument for why they matter now more than ever.
Emily Oaks Book Club--Remarkably Bright Creatures
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/25
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--Eating to Extinction
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
10/30
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

Hobbit Day Celebration

Celebrate Frodo and Bilbo Baggins birthday at Emily Oaks by going on a hike around the trails there and back again. There will be crafts, games, and, of course, a warm campfire with Lembas bread and po-tay-toes.
Hobbit Day Celebration
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
9/22
1:00 pm- 2:30 pm
AGES
3 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$6.00 / $8.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Nature Fun & Frolic

Introduce your toddler to different plants, animals and elements, while singing songs, reading books, and exploring nature in many different ways. Classes are primarily outdoors, weather permitting. An adult must accompany each child.
Nature Fun & Frolic
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
7/2-8/6
10:30 am-11:30 am
AGES
2 - 2
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$75.00 / $94.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Des Plaines River Canoe Trip

After brief instruction, paddle the Des Plaines River along the riverbanks 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
8/4
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

Emily Oaks Hiking Club
Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/24
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

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
8/17
6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
AGES
21 - 99
LOCATION
Emily Oaks Nature Center
FEES (Res / Non Res)
$35.00 / $44.00
AVAILABILITY
Available
Register

Emily Oaks Book Club

Cozy up to an indoor fire and discuss an engaging book with others. This program will be held indoors. May: “The Scent of Scandal” by Craig Pittman tells the true tale of greed, betrayal, and the world’s most beautiful orchid. June: “Siftings” by Jens Jensen shares his memories of wandering in many lands and his life in the heart of Middle America. July: “What an Owl Knows” by Jennifer Ackerman is an awe-inspiring exploration of owls across the globe and through human history. August: “The Well-Gardened Mind” by Sue Stuart-Smith investigates the many ways in which mind and garden can interact and explores how the process of tending a plot can be a way of sustaining an innermost self.
Emily Oaks Book Club: What an Owl Knows
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
7/31
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 Well-Gardened Mind
M Tu W Th F Sa Su
8/28
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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