Reconnect With Nature | Forest Preserve District of Will County

Join us for National Night Out

This free community event with a number of local police agencies is Aug. 4 at Monee Reservoir.

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Reap the rewards of the outdoors

There are plenty of ways to escape into nature in Will County.

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Knowledge is power

Learn about Will County's diverse plants, wildlife, and ecosystems through our interpretive programs.

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Conserving land for future generations

We protect and restore open space so wildlife can thrive and people can recreate.

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Two people sitting on a bench behind a wooden railing along a waterway. Fishing poles are leaning up against the railing, and wagons are visible in the background.

'Reel' Late Fishing

FRIDAY, JULY 31 | 7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM

Join us after the sun goes down for some late-night fishing at Monee Reservoir.

Bat Night for Families

FRIDAY, JULY 31 | 7:30 PM TO 8:45 PM

Enjoy a family-friendly evening at Hammel Woods exploring the habitat of our local bat species.

Art and Artistry: The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and Black Ash Basketry

SATURDAY, AUG. 1 | 1:00 PM TO 2:00 PM

Learn about the history, beauty and power of the black ash baskets created by members of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Early Morning Nature Stroll

FRIDAY, AUG. 7 | 6:00 AM TO 7:30 AM

Start your day with some fresh air and enjoy the quiet beauty of the preserve on an early morning hike.

Colorful hummingbird artwork displayed at exhibit.

Hidden Oaks art exhibit casts familiar birds in a new light

TUESDAY, JULY 28 | PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

The Aug. 1-Oct. 31 exhibit features about 20 of artist and actor Jeff Zarinelli’s wildlife paintings.

Wander at Will: A case of the summer doldrums

FRIDAY, JULY 24 | RECREATION

Not everyone loves summer, and that's OK. If you need a break from this relentless season, cater your time outside to what you like best.

Art showcase puts employee creativity in the spotlight

TUESDAY, JULY 21 | PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

'The Arts of the Preserves' opens Saturday, Aug. 1, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 30.

Going with the grain: First organic crop harvested on Forest Preserve land

MONDAY, JULY 20 | CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION

The milestone harvest is part of a broader effort to improve soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat.

Enter our Preserve the Moment Photo Contest

Here's your chance to show off your photographic skills in Will County's forest preserves. Not only are there prizes, but your photo could be featured in our 2027 calendar.

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Score some cool T-shirts for a good cause

This is a purchase you can feel good about, because all proceeds help fund a variety of Forest Preserve District initiatives. All orders include free shipping.

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Get married while surrounded by nature

Will County's forest preserves offer a variety of unique setting to say "I do" in front of your friends and family while also being an affordable option.

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Celebrate the Route 66 centennial

Join the Get Your Kicks program to explore along the Mother Road for chances to win prizes and earn swag.

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We want you to Be a Trailblazer

Go on a wild goose chase through this interactive experience that will have you exploring Will County's preserves. Thanks to sponsorship from The Nature Foundation of Will County as well as dozens of local businesses we will be awarding more than $15,000 in prizes throughout the year.

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The road to 24,000 acres

The Forest Preserve District sprouted up in 1926 and has continued to save land from development.

Get to know the American coot

Learn how this unique waterbird paddles through ponds and wetlands in search of plants and insects.

Learn about river otters

Will County has turned into a hot spot for these predators who love to feed on fish and frogs along rivers.

Join us for National Night Out

Reap the rewards of the outdoors

Knowledge is power

Conserving land for future generations

Preserves

Recreation

Volunteer

Get a permit