Celebrate Earth Day with the Forest Preserves of Cook County

Cook County is home to nearly 70,000 acres of wild and wonderful forest preserves, which help clean our air and water and absorb carbon emissions and stormwater. The Forest Preserves of Cook County is hosting events across Cook County in celebration of Earth Day to encourage and inspire residents of all ages to give back to nature or just enjoy time outdoors! 

Sixth Forest Preserves Site Earns Illinois Land and Water Reserve Designation

Located in northwestern Cook County, the Arthur L. Janura Forest Preserve offers visitors opportunities to explore beautifully restored prairies and wetlands and enjoy the cool shade of 300-year-old oak trees. Already home to the nine-acre, state-dedicated Shoe Factory Road Prairie Nature Preserve—a rare gravel hill prairie in the northwest corner of the preserve along Shoe Factory Road—this large swathe of natural land now boasts the Forest Preserves’ newest state designated parcel: the Poplar Creek Land and Water Reserve.

Spend a Night Under the Stars in Cook County

Did you know that the Forest Preserves of Cook County operates five public campgrounds? Campers can pitch a tent, rent a cabin or bunkhouse, or book a spot for an RV for an immersive, round-the-clock nature experience. Each of the campgrounds offers a unique experience and features accessible campsite options and amenities.  
 
Our campgrounds are open seven days a week, and from Memorial Day through Labor Day, staff provide weekend programing at most locations. New to camping? We have you covered! The Forest Preserves leads hands-on Camping 101 programs for individuals interested in learning camping basics, and the campgrounds have gear rentals, too. 

Upcoming Events

Join our naturalists for fun, educational offerings in person and via Zoom! Learn about spring bird migration; participate in Earth Day-themed programs; or join guided fitness hikes, wellness walks, wildflower walks, nature play dates and more. Check out our online events calendar for a full schedule.

Volunteer Opportunities: Adopt-A-Site

Make a commitment to a grove, river, lake, or trail and clean up litter at your adopted site from April through November. The Forest Preserves will help you choose a site and provide an Adopt-A-Site kit with everything you need for your cleanups.
 
The Forest Preserves will support your site by:

• Installing an adoption sign at the site after you complete your 8 cleanups
• Providing cleanup supplies and safety information 
• Offering ongoing access to knowledgeable staff as a resource
• Collecting and disposing of filled litter bags and other debris cleared from the adoption site

Just about anyone can take part: individuals, families, schools, youth groups, civic groups, clubs, organizations, fraternities, and faith groups. A coordinator will help connect you to an available site when you sign up for the opportunity.