Camping

The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers naturalist-led programs for organized youth groups camping at Forest Preserve campgrounds. Call 815-727-8700 or email [email protected] for more information on scheduling your group’s camping trip or to book a program. 

Night Hike

Exploring the night with the safe guidance of an interpretive naturalist will be the high point of your group’s night in the woods. Fun activities reveal Will County’s nocturnal wildlife and why they seek the dark. 

Fee is $25 per program for non-profit groups and $50 per program for for-profit groups. Some programs are on natural, uneven terrain. 

Ages: 10-18
Time: 1.5 hours

Day Hike

Take to the trail for games and exploration. There is an endless number of topics to explore. You will work with an interpretive naturalist to make this hike, and camping trip, an experience all its own.  

Fee is $25 per program for non-profit groups and $50 per program for for-profit groups. Some programs are on natural, uneven terrain. 

Ages: 10-18
Time: 1.5 hours

_{Photo courtesy of Ron Molk}

Map & Compass

Test your orienteering skills with some fun exercises after covering compass basics. Participants will hike natural, uneven terrain.  

Fee is $25 per program for non-profit groups and $50 per program for for-profit groups. Some programs are on natural, uneven terrain. 

Ages: 10-18
Time: 1.5 hours

Camping 101

Ever been curious to begin camping, but unsure how or where to start? Learn everything you need to know in a fun and simple program. Participants will learn the basics of camping from the different types of equipment, differences in seasons, and tips to ensure your enjoyment. Skills will be demonstrated first for all to visually see the processes and conclude with an opportunity for hands on participation to experience setting up a campsite. The best part of any camping experience? S’mores of course! Enjoy the delicious campfire treat as a way to wrap up Camping 101.

Fee is $25 per program for non-profit groups and $50 per program for for-profit groups. Some of the program is on natural, uneven terrain.

Ages: 7 or older
Time: 1.5-2 hours

Badge Program

Calling all troops! Just for you, a program to help fulfill scout badge requirements. Working with a District interpreter, scout leaders plan and receive a program to help satisfy badge requirements, utilizing Forest Preserve resources such as staff expertise, cultural artifacts, education equipment and, of course, the preserves themselves. Due to BSA and GSA administration, time requirements and site limitations, no program will meet badge requirements in full. 

Fee is $40 per interpreter per hour. Program and time limits apply. Scheduling is subject to staff availability.

Ages: 5-18
Time: 2 hours