News you can use
A section of the Plum Creek Greenway Trail is closed due to bridge damage to the trail's north bridge closest to Bemes Road. This trail section will remain closed until the tree can be removed and the bridge repaired.
A 'Prairie Reverie' exhibit at Plum Creek Nature Center showcases local artist Carrie Carlson’s artwork celebrating Illinois’ native prairie life. The free exhibit runs June 4 through Aug. 24.
Visitor center amenities
The Plum Creek Nature Center offers visitors a place to explore the natural world, with hands-on exhibits and interactive play elements. Offerings and amenities include:
- Public programs
- School programs
- Youth group programs
- Honeybee exhibit and resident reptiles
- Nature playscape, featuring a pollinator garden and rain garden
- Bird observation area
- Sled tube and snowshoe rentals
- Facility rentals
- Gift shop
- Special events
- Free District publications and trail maps
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS VISITOR CENTER'S INTERACTIVE MAP
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL
The following permits are available for purchase at the nature center:
- Camping permits
- Dog park permits
- Picnic permits
The nature center is open to the public free of charge.
Group outings
While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to visit the nature center and preserve facilities, they are required to get a special use permit in advance to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts. Please contact the nature center at 708-946-2216 for more information.
Preserve amenities
The Plum Creek Nature Center is located at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve and adjacent to the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, which offer the following amenities and activities:
- Biking
- Horseback riding
- Hiking/running
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Sledding
- Ice skating
- Geocaching
