Hidden Oaks youth programs

The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers youth group programs at Hidden Oaks Nature Center. Many programs are designed to meet specific badge or adventure requirements for scouting groups; however, any youth group may book the programs. Additional youth group programs are offered seasonally and are promoted via the District’s event calendar. Call 815-722-4121 for more information or to book a youth group program from the list below.

Badge Program

Calling all troops! Just for you – a program to help fulfill select 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 all requirements in full. Program and time limits apply. Scheduling is subject to staff availability.   

Fee: $40 per interpreter, per hour.
Age: 5-18
Time: 2 Hours

Bug Out!

Get down and dirty discovering the incredible world of bugs — what makes an insect, where do bugs live, uncover cool adaptations, how they grow, and finally meet some stars of the show! Some of the program is on natural, uneven terrain.

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 8-12
Time: 1 hour

Discovery Program

Our experienced staff will work with group leaders to design a program to meet your group’s needs. Content must be on natural or cultural history subject areas that keep with the Forest Preserve District’s mission. Scheduling is subject to staff availability.

Fee: $40 per interpreter, per hour.
Ages: 5-18
Time: 2 hours

First-Time Fishing

Learn fishing basics, such as putting tackle on the pole and baiting the hook. Practice casting and gain hands-on experience while fishing along the shoreline with the guidance of an instructor. All materials are provided, including pole, tackle and bait. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Shoreline fishing takes place on natural surfaces over uneven terrain. 

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 8-18
Time: 2 hours

Frogs, Snakes, Turtles!

The word ‘herpeto’ is ancient Greek for things that creep and crawl. Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. This program will introduce your group to the amazing herps that live in Illinois and around the world. Sign up for this fascinating program, learn fun facts, and see reptile skins and skeletons. If time permits, we will take a hike on uneven natural terrain to see Hidden Oaks Preserve’s own reptiles and amphibians. 

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 5-15
Time: 1 hour

Kayak Kollege

Participants will learn basic kayaking safety, equipment and paddle skills, as well as paddling a kayak in flat water conditions. All equipment is provided, including life jackets. Be sure to wear shoes and clothes that can get wet. For participant safety, a maximum of 10 people per workshop is allowed. Water is accessible by way of a paved parking lot to the boat entrance ramp. 

Fee: $100 per workshop
Age: 12-18
Time: 2 hours

Owl Prowl

Did you know there are at least seven different types of owls that can be seen in Will County? Bring your group to this program and learn about Illinois owl species, their natural history and their amazing specialized adaptations. Participate in an “owl prowl” by listening for the call of the resident owls of our preserves. This program takes place on natural trails over uneven terrain. Please note that the recommended start time for this program is approximately one hour before sunset; start times will vary. 

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 5-15   
Time: 1 hour

Snowshoe Safari

Enjoy a winter walk, exploring the natural wonders of the season. Activity topics include animal signs and tracking, winter wildlife adaptations, snow effects, and trees in winter. Weather permitting, outdoor exploration is done on snowshoes (provided). Wear warm outerwear and be prepared to hike off-trail in snowy conditions.

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 7-18
Time: 1 hour

Wild Wonders Hike

Explore the hidden wonders of our woods with a naturalist. Search for frogs at the pond, listen for bird songs and follow animal tracks through the prairie. Your senses will be heightened during this hands-on hike. This program takes place on natural trails over uneven terrain. 

Fee: $40/program for non-profit groups; $80/program for for-profit groups
Age: 7-15
Time: 1 hour