Half Day Shelter A

Half Day Shelter A remains closed during construction. Watch for posted signs in closed areas.
Have a question? Contact us or 847-367-6640.

This unique shelter at Half Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills overhangs a picturesque pond, providing a scenic backdrop for weddings and other special celebrations and events.

The shelter area features an adjacent playfield. A playground is located near Shelters A and B and is shared with all preserve visitors. Picnickers also have access to the preserve's fishing pond and trails, including the countywide Des Plaines River Trail.

To access this shelter, park in the second lot on your right. This parking area is shared with Shelter B. Rental includes exclusive use of the covered deck next to the shelter.

Preserve Location: 24255 N. Hwy 21 | Vernon Hills, IL 60060

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Rules and Regulations

For your safety and enjoyment, please...

Leave nature as you find it for others to enjoy.
Leash and pick up litter from pets.
Smoking is prohibited within 15 feet of playgrounds.
Clean the shelter area before leaving your event.
Decorations and directional signs are permitted, but may not be attached to Forest Preserves signs. Use only twine or thumbtacks to attach decorations to the shelter. Do not use any forms of tape, staple guns, nails, screws or fishing line to attach decorations. All decorations, signs, twine and thumbtacks must be removed when event is finished.
Alcoholic beverages are permitted; must be 21 years or older. No alcohol consumption within 100 feet of parking lots. Host liquor liability insurance is available but not mandatory.
Park only in lots. Loitering in lots is prohibited. Vehicles left after closing will be towed at owner's expense.
Service roads may be used for unloading and loading only. Do not leave vehicles parked on service road. If you need use of the service road, place a request for the gate to be dropped at the time you reserve the shelter.

Shelter Restrictions

Water may not be available mid-October–May.
In order to have Band or DJ, you must rent both shelters A and B to minimize disturbance to other preserve guests.
When booking two shelters, use A and B.
Open area permits are not available at this preserve.

PHOTOS

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Shelter Features:

Maximum Capacity

200: Shelter and surrounding area
90: Under the shelter roof

Total Picnic Tables and Grills

26 Tables
1 Grill

Special Amenities

Picnic Tables
Service Road Access
Horseshoe Pit
Playfield
Playground
Drinking Water
Public Parking
Toilets
Trails
Electricity
Grills

Special Activities:

Any vendors hired by the permit holder to provide special activities, including catering, must be licensed with the Lake County Forest Preserve District for the current year. Approved vendors for each special activity permitted at this shelter are listed in document below.

Special activities allowed at this shelter are:

Catering
Moonwalk
Band/DJ
Tent (Large)
Tent (Small)

Licensed Vendors:

Vendor List