Check out our visitor centers
Family fun is right around the corner
Embrace your child’s sense of wonder and spirit of adventure with a visit to a Forest Preserve visitor center!
The Forest Preserve District of Will County operates four child- and family-friendly visitor centers in different corners of the county, and they are a perfect pitstop on a rainy day — or a sunny or snowy one.
Each visitor center offers an entirely unique experience, with fun to be had both indoors and out. Add them to the list of places to visit with your kids and watch them become awestruck as they learn about the world around them.
Forest Preserve visitor centers host child- and family-friendly programs throughout the year. In addition, visitors are invited to participate in scavenger hunts, seasonal challenges and others interactive experiences when they visit. Check out all upcoming programs on the Forest Preserve Event Calendar.
Visit us
Admission to Forest Preserve visitor centers is always free! Visitor centers are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays except for holidays.
Four Rivers Environmental Education Center
25055 W. Walnut Lane, Channahon
River life is front and center here, which makes perfect sense for a facility situated where three rivers come together to form one. You won’t want to miss spending a few minutes being mesmerized by the fish in the 2,000-gallon aquarium. From there you can learn about the region’s wildlife and geology in the exhibit hall or watch birds soaring overhead and boats and barges floating by from the Grand Hall.
Once you’re done exploring inside, head outside to learn more about wildlife on the All-Persons Trail or experience the river views on the paved trails surrounding the building. Four Rivers has been accredited by the National Inclusion Project, and staff are trained on inclusive practices for individuals with disabilities.
Hidden Oaks
Nature Center
419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook
The forest comes indoors here, where visitors are greeted by a large replica oak tree that is teeming with life. Start your visit by looking for all the forest friends in the giant tree and then explore the forest-themed exhibits. Make sure to visit with our menagerie of animal ambassadors — a pair of box turtles named Rex and Cera; Creed the snapping turtle; a red-eared slider named Paddlefoot; Maxine the red-footed tortoise; a tiger salamander named Ghillie; and a corn snake named Ramen.
Outside, kids can romp around on the nature playscape and enjoy a short hike in the woods. Don’t forget to venture down to Hidden Lakes Trout Farm for more outdoor fun! Kids will love fishing or exploring the four ponds.
Isle a la Cache Museum
501 W. Romeo Road, Romeoville
Step back in time and learn about our region’s cultural and natural history at the Forest Preserve’s museum. Visitors will become part of “Illinois Country,” as the area was known in the 18th century. Learn about the Potawatomi and the French voyageurs who once inhabited the area and discover how different life was in the 1700s. While you’re there, say hello to our resident turtles to learn more about our local wildlife.
Outside the museum you’ll see a replica Native American longhouse and trader’s cabin — both of which are sometimes open during public programs. In the summer, the pollinator garden will be buzzing with insect activity. Visitors can also enjoy a short hike with views of the Des Plaines River or watch the birds at the feeders.
Plum Creek Nature Center
27064 S. Dutton Road, Crete Township
The friendly faces that will greet you here aren’t just human faces! The nature center is also home to a trio of resident reptiles: Bluey the blue-tongued skink; Penny the ball python; and Lilo the eastern box turtle. After saying hello to the animal ambassadors check out the hands-on exhibits and interactive activities to turn your visit into a learning opportunity. Exhibits change seasonally, so every visit is sure to bring new wonders.
Outside you can hike down to Snapper Pond to get an up-close look at a busy wetland ecosystem. Depending on when you visit, you’ll see turtles, snakes, birds and more thriving in this healthy habitat. Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve is also home to more than 5 miles of trails. In the winter, you can sled in the sled hill near the nature center.