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Education

Field Trips

In-person and virtual school programs are available. To find out more review the programs offered below, then email AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org to begin the registration process.


EE-FALL-School-Program

We offer expertly guided, hands-on school programs throughout Lake County.

Our school programs are designed to support Illinois Learning Standards and can be customized to fit your needs. Programs offer hands-on learning incorporating science, social studies, history and language arts, and feature experts, local historians and naturalists. 

Our education programs and staff are packed and ready to travel. Programs are economically priced and designed for one classroom of students. Programs are available at convenient locations throughout the county to minimize bus transport. Special discounts are available for multiple programs booked in a single day—begin by filling out our program inquiry form or call 847-968-3321 for details.

Browse available school and scout programs and sign up for our educator e-newsletter for special offerings year-round. Registration for our popular programs begins July 1, so you can have field trip plans in place before the rush of the new school year begins.

Learn about the registration process

View the list of Illinois Science Standards covered by our programs

Teacher Open House

Attend a spring or fall Teacher Open House to learn about programs and resources for your class, and take part in teacher training sessions with Museum and Environmental education staff. Up to two CPDUs available. Check our calendar for dates or sign up for our educator email list.

Ask An Educator

Are you teaching a unit on threatened and endangered species and want to feature local examples? Does your class have questions about pioneer settlers in Lake County? We can help.

Submit questions about Lake County’s natural and human history to AskAnEducator@LCFPD.org and we will respond to your inquiry.

Stay Informed

Sign up to receive our educator e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on educational opportunities for your students and scouts.

 

Preschool

Expand all

Age 3

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3–Grade 1

Students learn how our local animals have adapted to survive winter. We’ll discover why snow is important, why animals don’t need long underwear and then explore outside for signs of winter life.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, December–February.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 1: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

WinterWonders

Birds

Age 3 – Grade 12

Learn what makes a bird a bird, and how they use their feathers, beaks, and feet to survive and grow. Students take a look at bird study skins, and then head outdoors to listen for and observe birds.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Birds

Homes

Age 3 – Grade 2

Take a hands-on look at different animals’ homes and learn that like people—animals use homes to provide shelter, safety and a good place to raise a family. Then it’s into the woods to search for burrows, nests, holes and more.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Homes

Mammals

Age 3 – Grade 12

We're mammals, but what does that mean? We'll look at pelts and skulls to learn similarities and differences between everything from bats to beavers and how these animals are adapted to their habitat. Then we'll go outside to look for animal tracks and signs.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Mammals

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3 - Grade 6

Eeekk! It’s slimy and slithery—or is it? Students compare and contrast reptiles and amphibians through hands-on activities, and discover how specialized body parts help our local reptiles and amphibians grow and survive.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 3: $40 ($76 nonresidents) 1 hour
Grades 4–6: $50 ($86 nonresidents) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

ReptilesandAmphibians

Touch of Nature (self-guided)

Touch of Nature (self-guided)

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3 – Grade 2

Students use their senses to make outdoor discoveries looking for colors in the rainbow, reaching into mystery boxes to feel objects, or focusing on the sights, sounds, smells and textures of the forest. Most of all, students learn that nature is fun.

Availability

This program is offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, September–October and April–May.

Cost

$20/group ($40/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

touchofnature

Age 4

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3–Grade 1

Students learn how our local animals have adapted to survive winter. We’ll discover why snow is important, why animals don’t need long underwear and then explore outside for signs of winter life.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, December–February.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 1: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

WinterWonders

Farm Discovery (self-guided) — Available Fall, Spring

Farm Discovery (self-guided) — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Meet our live sheep and chickens. Use puppets to distinguish farm and wild animals, and food containers to learn what products come from farms. Note: For our animals’ health, they are not always outside. Food provided for feeding animals.

Availability

This program is available September–October and late April–July at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods.

Cost

$20/group ($40/group nonresident) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

FarmDiscovery

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students learn how trees turn water, the sun's energy and air into sap. Then it’s into the sugarbush to practice drilling and watch the sap flow. A stop at the evaporator shows how sap becomes syrup. Everyone gets a chance to compare sap and taste real Ryerson Woods maple syrup.

Availability

This program is held at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

Age 4–Grade 6: $55 ($91 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 7–12: $65 ($101 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyruping

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students get a taste of the syrup-making process from start to finish. Every student has a chance to practice drilling holes, see sap collecting in buckets and taste fresh Ryerson Woods maple syrup. Teacher materials provided.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

$25/group ($50/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyrupSelfGuidedjpg

Insects and Spiders — Available Spring

Insects and Spiders — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 1 – 8

Look at the world through an insect’s eyes and discover the differences and similarities between insects and spiders. Netting and close-up observation allows students to explore a variety of local insects and spiders.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–mid-October and mid-May–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Grades 1–2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–8: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Insects_Spiders

Dinosaur Tales

Age 4 – Grade 2

Discover the job of a paleontologist and what makes an animal a dinosaur through a story and hands-on activities.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Dryptosaurus in Dunn Museum

Early life in Lake County

Early life in Lake County

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Explore the lives of early settler children by learning about their chores, entertainment, and community through object-based inquiry and hands-on experiences.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

An_American_Frontier

Mighty Mastodons

Mighty Mastodons

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Do you know the difference between a mastodon and a mammoth? Find out as you explore Lake County during the last Ice Age through a story and hands-on activities.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Dunn_198A

Woodland Stories

Woodland Stories

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Learn about the Potawatomi in our area through hands-on activities and a traditional oral story.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Wigwam

Elementary School

Expand all

Grades 1-2

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Animals in Winter — Available Winter

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3–Grade 1

Students learn how our local animals have adapted to survive winter. We’ll discover why snow is important, why animals don’t need long underwear and then explore outside for signs of winter life.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, December–February.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 1: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

WinterWonders

Farm Discovery (self-guided) — Available Fall, Spring

Farm Discovery (self-guided) — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Meet our live sheep and chickens. Use puppets to distinguish farm and wild animals, and food containers to learn what products come from farms. Note: For our animals’ health, they are not always outside. Food provided for feeding animals.

Availability

This program is available September–October and late April–July at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods.

Cost

$20/group ($40/group nonresident) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

FarmDiscovery

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students learn how trees turn water, the sun's energy and air into sap. Then it’s into the sugarbush to practice drilling and watch the sap flow. A stop at the evaporator shows how sap becomes syrup. Everyone gets a chance to compare sap and taste real Ryerson Woods maple syrup.

Availability

This program is held at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

Age 4–Grade 6: $55 ($91 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 7–12: $65 ($101 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyruping

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students get a taste of the syrup-making process from start to finish. Every student has a chance to practice drilling holes, see sap collecting in buckets and taste fresh Ryerson Woods maple syrup. Teacher materials provided.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

$25/group ($50/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyrupSelfGuidedjpg

Insects and Spiders — Available Spring

Insects and Spiders — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 1 – 8

Look at the world through an insect’s eyes and discover the differences and similarities between insects and spiders. Netting and close-up observation allows students to explore a variety of local insects and spiders.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–mid-October and mid-May–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Grades 1–2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–8: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Insects_Spiders

Plant life cycles — Available Fall, Spring

Plant life cycles — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 1–2

Take an up-close look at seeds. Discover their needs and examine plant life cycles. By examining burrs, nuts and other seeds, learn how seeds are dispersed. Find developing seeds and learn more about their needs with an outside walk.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–mid October and April–June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Lakewood Shelter E Sep 19, 26, Oct 3, 2019; Apr 23, 30, May 7, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

PlantLifeCycles

Mighty Mastodons

Mighty Mastodons

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Do you know the difference between a mastodon and a mammoth? Find out as you explore Lake County during the last Ice Age through a story and hands-on activities.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Dunn_198A

Woodland Stories

Woodland Stories

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Learn about the Potawatomi in our area through hands-on activities and a traditional oral story.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Wigwam

Early life in Lake County

Early life in Lake County

Illinois Learning Standards

Age 4 – Grade 2

Explore the lives of early settler children by learning about their chores, entertainment, and community through object-based inquiry and hands-on experiences.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

An_American_Frontier

Dinosaur Tales

Age 4 – Grade 2

Discover the job of a paleontologist and what makes an animal a dinosaur through a story and hands-on activities.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 45 minutes, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Dryptosaurus in Dunn Museum

Animal Adaptations

Animal Adaptations

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 3–8

What do playing dead and cheek pouches have in common? Both are adaptations animals use for survival. Students search for camouflaged animals during an outdoor walk. A variety of animal skins show how well wildlife is suited for its habitat. Outdoor activities illustrate unique behavioral adaptations.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

AnimalAdaptations

Grades 3-4

Birds

Age 3 – Grade 12

Learn what makes a bird a bird, and how they use their feathers, beaks, and feet to survive and grow. Students take a look at bird study skins, and then head outdoors to listen for and observe birds.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Birds

Mammals

Age 3 – Grade 12

We're mammals, but what does that mean? We'll look at pelts and skulls to learn similarities and differences between everything from bats to beavers and how these animals are adapted to their habitat. Then we'll go outside to look for animal tracks and signs.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Mammals

All the Way with Adlai

All the Way with Adlai

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–12

Take a closer look at this influential and important figure in United States political history by visiting the place he fondly called home. Students will examine his 1952 and 1956 campaigns to learn more about the presidential election process.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home in Mettawa.

Cost

$3/person ($5/person nonresident) 1 hour and 15 mins, 30 people/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Adlai

Discovering Dinosaurs

Discovering Dinosaurs

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Why is there no fossil record of dinosaurs in Lake County? Uncover clues to this period of Lake County's past as you learn about the fascinating work of paleontologists.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

DigPit

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students learn how trees turn water, the sun's energy and air into sap. Then it’s into the sugarbush to practice drilling and watch the sap flow. A stop at the evaporator shows how sap becomes syrup. Everyone gets a chance to compare sap and taste real Ryerson Woods maple syrup.

Availability

This program is held at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

Age 4–Grade 6: $55 ($91 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 7–12: $65 ($101 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyruping

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students get a taste of the syrup-making process from start to finish. Every student has a chance to practice drilling holes, see sap collecting in buckets and taste fresh Ryerson Woods maple syrup. Teacher materials provided.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

$25/group ($50/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyrupSelfGuidedjpg

Lake County: Past to Present

Lake County: Past to Present

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Examine the important people and events that have shaped our county into what it is today. From dinosaurs, to the Civil War, to the industrial boom and beyond, students will come away with a deeper understanding of the area's long and rich history.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847 968 3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

APlaceCalledLakeCounty

Ice Age Mammals

Grades 3–5

Discover the magnificent, massive mammals that lived in Lake County during the Last Ice Age.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847 968 3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Prehistoric3

Potawatomi Lifeways

Potawatomi Lifeways

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Utilize primary sources, objects and inquiry skills to discover how colonialism impacted local Native peoples. Students will examineNative daily life in the early 19th century, the impact of the 1833 Treaty of Chicago and the continuance of Native cultures today.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Elm_bark_container

Early Settlers in Lake County

Early Settlers in Lake County

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

How do we know what happened in the past? Become a historian and investigate objects, photos, and primary sources to determine who the first settlers in Lake County were, what their daily lives were like, and how they adapted the land around them.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

An_American_Frontier-2

Plant Adaptations — Available Fall

Plant Adaptations — Available Fall

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 3–8

Discover the unique adaptations of Illinois prairie plants. Examine plants to learn how sun, wind and water affect prairies and the wildlife found there.

Availability

This program is available exclusively at Old School in Libertyville, September–early October.

Cost

Grade 3, $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grade 4–8, $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

PrairieSampler

Predator/Prey

Grades 3–12

Learn food chain basics with an outdoor simulation of predator and prey interactions. Dissect owl pellets to determine what happens to prey. A face-to-face meeting with a live predator reveals its special role in nature.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

 
Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$70 ($106 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

PredatorPrey

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3 - Grade 6

Eeekk! It’s slimy and slithery—or is it? Students compare and contrast reptiles and amphibians through hands-on activities, and discover how specialized body parts help our local reptiles and amphibians grow and survive.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 3: $40 ($76 nonresidents) 1 hour
Grades 4–6: $50 ($86 nonresidents) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

ReptilesandAmphibians

Web of life — Available Fall, Spring

Web of life — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 3–6

Students study the interactions between organisms and the flow of energy through ecosystems as they work in teams to build food webs with pelts, skulls and artifacts. Explorations show what living things need to survive. The living web activity demonstrates how even the smallest influences are felt throughout the web.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–November and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

WebofLife

Grade 4-5

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Go back to early Lake County as 18th-century French voyageurs lead activities on land and water. Discover why voyageurs traveled to Illinois in the 1740s and learn their effect on natural and cultural development. Weather permitting, paddle our 34-foot canoe across the lake and back in time.

Forest Preserve education staff realize the excitement and anticipation students and teachers feel when joining us for a floating classroom program, but there are circumstances when it is unsafe to include the canoe portion of the program. In the event that canoe use is not possible, staff is prepared with additional activities to present a complete education program.

Waiver and Release forms are required for all students attending this program. Download the waiver

Availability

Floating classroom programs are primarily held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, but are also offered on Sterling Lake at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth on September 18, 19, 20 and 21. This program is typically offered September–early October, and late April–May.

Cost

One group, $140 ($200 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Two groups (must be same day), $160 ($220 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Three groups (must be same day), $205 ($290 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Four groups (must be same day), $220 ($310 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Group size: 17 people total (students + adults)

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

LivesoftheVoyageurs_FurTradeSecrets

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Use nets to catch tadpoles, snails, and dragonfly nymphs. Budding scientists work with microscopes and dichotomous keys to examine their catch and observe the interactions among organisms. Students will use species diversity to assess the pond's health.

Availability

This program is available at Wright Woods in Mettawa, September–early October and late May–early June.

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Pond_Picture_2

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3 - Grade 6

Eeekk! It’s slimy and slithery—or is it? Students compare and contrast reptiles and amphibians through hands-on activities, and discover how specialized body parts help our local reptiles and amphibians grow and survive.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 3: $40 ($76 nonresidents) 1 hour
Grades 4–6: $50 ($86 nonresidents) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

ReptilesandAmphibians

All the Way with Adlai

All the Way with Adlai

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–12

Take a closer look at this influential and important figure in United States political history by visiting the place he fondly called home. Students will examine his 1952 and 1956 campaigns to learn more about the presidential election process.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home in Mettawa.

Cost

$3/person ($5/person nonresident) 1 hour and 15 mins, 30 people/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Adlai

Civil War School Days — Available Spring

Civil War School Days — Available Spring

Illinois Learning Standards

This program is currently full.

Grades 5–8

Learn about the American Civil War firsthand as you join Civil War re-enactors and Dunn Museum staff for a day of artillery, infantry and medical demonstrations, along with performances by Harriet Tubman, President and Mrs. Lincoln, and Generals Grant and Lee. Also includes Civil War era music, stories from the Lake County home front, and more.

Availability

This program is available at the Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.

Cost

$4/student ($6 nonresidents) 3 hours 30 minutes (9:30 am–1 pm)

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Civil War School Days

Discovering Dinosaurs

Discovering Dinosaurs

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Why is there no fossil record of dinosaurs in Lake County? Uncover clues to this period of Lake County's past as you learn about the fascinating work of paleontologists.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

DigPit

Lake County: Past to Present

Lake County: Past to Present

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Examine the important people and events that have shaped our county into what it is today. From dinosaurs, to the Civil War, to the industrial boom and beyond, students will come away with a deeper understanding of the area's long and rich history.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847 968 3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

APlaceCalledLakeCounty

Ice Age Mammals

Grades 3–5

Discover the magnificent, massive mammals that lived in Lake County during the Last Ice Age.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847 968 3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Prehistoric3

Potawatomi Lifeways

Potawatomi Lifeways

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

Utilize primary sources, objects and inquiry skills to discover how colonialism impacted local Native peoples. Students will examineNative daily life in the early 19th century, the impact of the 1833 Treaty of Chicago and the continuance of Native cultures today.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/person ($4/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Elm_bark_container

Early Settlers in Lake County

Early Settlers in Lake County

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–5

How do we know what happened in the past? Become a historian and investigate objects, photos, and primary sources to determine who the first settlers in Lake County were, what their daily lives were like, and how they adapted the land around them.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

$2/student ($4/student nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

An_American_Frontier-2

Uncovering the Underground Railroad

Uncovering the Underground Railroad

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 5–8

Using various historical sources, students piece together what it was like to escape on the Underground Railroad and evaluate whether there is enough evidence to prove it passed through Lake County.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. 

Cost

$3/person ($5/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

UncoveringtheUndergroundRailroad

Middle School

Expand all

Grade 6

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and Amphibians

Illinois Science Standards

Age 3 - Grade 6

Eeekk! It’s slimy and slithery—or is it? Students compare and contrast reptiles and amphibians through hands-on activities, and discover how specialized body parts help our local reptiles and amphibians grow and survive.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June. This program is also available as an in-school program.

Cost

Age 3–Grade 3: $40 ($76 nonresidents) 1 hour
Grades 4–6: $50 ($86 nonresidents) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

ReptilesandAmphibians

Grade 6-8

Animal Adaptations

Animal Adaptations

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 3–8

What do playing dead and cheek pouches have in common? Both are adaptations animals use for survival. Students search for camouflaged animals during an outdoor walk. A variety of animal skins show how well wildlife is suited for its habitat. Outdoor activities illustrate unique behavioral adaptations.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

AnimalAdaptations

Gift of the Glaciers — Available Fall, Spring

Gift of the Glaciers — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 6–8

Examine the fossil record and develop a time line of significant events. Investigate igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks; identify rock and fossil samples to determine their place in geological time, and explore how water and ice formed the landscape of Lake County. Students apply knowledge by taking soil core samples and interpreting the results. Through data collection and field work, learn the continuing effects of glaciation.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Independence Grove in Libertyville and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, late October–early November and late March - early April.

Cost

$96 ($134 nonresident) 4 hours, 30 students, 3 adults/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

GiftoftheGlaciers

Lake Ecology — Available Fall, Spring

Lake Ecology — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 6–12

Students take on the role of Limnologists and study abiotic and biotic factors to determine water quality. Paddle our 34-foot canoe and use specialized tools to collect water samples and do chemical tests. Study watersheds and their impact on water quality while taking a one-mile walk around the lake. Students use the information gathered to formulate a solution to a lake water quality issue. Collect, identify and categorize the animal life in the lake to form a complete picture of overall water quality.

Forest Preserve education staff realize the excitement and anticipation students and teachers feel when joining us for a floating classroom program, but there are circumstances when it is unsafe to include the canoe portion of the program. In the event that canoe use is not possible, staff is prepared with additional activities to present a complete education program.

Waiver and Release forms are required for all students attending this program. Download the waiver »

Availability

Floating classroom programs are primarily held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, but are also offered on Sterling Lake at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth on May 6, 7, 9, and 10, 2019. This program is typically offered September–early October, and late April–May.

Cost

$218 ($290 nonresident) 4.5 hours, 45 students, 6 adults/group max

New This Year

If the full 4.5 hour program is not the right fit for your group, contact our staff at 847-968-3321 to discuss a customized, shortened Lake Ecology field trip to meet your specific curriculum needs and time constraints.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

LakeEcology

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Go back to early Lake County as 18th-century French voyageurs lead activities on land and water. Discover why voyageurs traveled to Illinois in the 1740s and learn their effect on natural and cultural development. Weather permitting, paddle our 34-foot canoe across the lake and back in time.

Forest Preserve education staff realize the excitement and anticipation students and teachers feel when joining us for a floating classroom program, but there are circumstances when it is unsafe to include the canoe portion of the program. In the event that canoe use is not possible, staff is prepared with additional activities to present a complete education program.

Waiver and Release forms are required for all students attending this program. Download the waiver

Availability

Floating classroom programs are primarily held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, but are also offered on Sterling Lake at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth on September 18, 19, 20 and 21. This program is typically offered September–early October, and late April–May.

Cost

One group, $140 ($200 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Two groups (must be same day), $160 ($220 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Three groups (must be same day), $205 ($290 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Four groups (must be same day), $220 ($310 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Group size: 17 people total (students + adults)

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

LivesoftheVoyageurs_FurTradeSecrets

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students learn how trees turn water, the sun's energy and air into sap. Then it’s into the sugarbush to practice drilling and watch the sap flow. A stop at the evaporator shows how sap becomes syrup. Everyone gets a chance to compare sap and taste real Ryerson Woods maple syrup.

Availability

This program is held at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

Age 4–Grade 6: $55 ($91 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 7–12: $65 ($101 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyruping

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students get a taste of the syrup-making process from start to finish. Every student has a chance to practice drilling holes, see sap collecting in buckets and taste fresh Ryerson Woods maple syrup. Teacher materials provided.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

$25/group ($50/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyrupSelfGuidedjpg

Plant Adaptations — Available Fall

Plant Adaptations — Available Fall

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 3–8

Discover the unique adaptations of Illinois prairie plants. Examine plants to learn how sun, wind and water affect prairies and the wildlife found there.

Availability

This program is available exclusively at Old School in Libertyville, September–early October.

Cost

Grade 3, $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grade 4–8, $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

PrairieSampler

Uncovering the Underground Railroad

Uncovering the Underground Railroad

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 5–8

Using various historical sources, students piece together what it was like to escape on the Underground Railroad and evaluate whether there is enough evidence to prove it passed through Lake County.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville. 

Cost

$3/person ($5/person nonresident) 1 hour, 30 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

UncoveringtheUndergroundRailroad

Civil War School Days — Available Spring

Civil War School Days — Available Spring

Illinois Learning Standards

This program is currently full.

Grades 5–8

Learn about the American Civil War firsthand as you join Civil War re-enactors and Dunn Museum staff for a day of artillery, infantry and medical demonstrations, along with performances by Harriet Tubman, President and Mrs. Lincoln, and Generals Grant and Lee. Also includes Civil War era music, stories from the Lake County home front, and more.

Availability

This program is available at the Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.

Cost

$4/student ($6 nonresidents) 3 hours 30 minutes (9:30 am–1 pm)

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Civil War School Days

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Use nets to catch tadpoles, snails, and dragonfly nymphs. Budding scientists work with microscopes and dichotomous keys to examine their catch and observe the interactions among organisms. Students will use species diversity to assess the pond's health.

Availability

This program is available at Wright Woods in Mettawa, September–early October and late May–early June.

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Pond_Picture_2

Going Green

Grades 7–12

Explore how water and resource conservation are an important part of the Welcome Center at Ryerson Woods. This green building is a laboratory for discovering how to balance the needs of people and nature. Hands-on activities aid learning.

Availability

This program is exclusively held at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, year-round.

Cost

$20 ($40 nonresident) 1.5 hours, 50 people/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

GoingGreen

High School

Expand all

Grades 9-12

Birds

Age 3 – Grade 12

Learn what makes a bird a bird, and how they use their feathers, beaks, and feet to survive and grow. Students take a look at bird study skins, and then head outdoors to listen for and observe birds.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Birds

Going Green

Grades 7–12

Explore how water and resource conservation are an important part of the Welcome Center at Ryerson Woods. This green building is a laboratory for discovering how to balance the needs of people and nature. Hands-on activities aid learning.

Availability

This program is exclusively held at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods, year-round.

Cost

$20 ($40 nonresident) 1.5 hours, 50 people/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

GoingGreen

Lake Ecology — Available Fall, Spring

Lake Ecology — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 6–12

Students take on the role of Limnologists and study abiotic and biotic factors to determine water quality. Paddle our 34-foot canoe and use specialized tools to collect water samples and do chemical tests. Study watersheds and their impact on water quality while taking a one-mile walk around the lake. Students use the information gathered to formulate a solution to a lake water quality issue. Collect, identify and categorize the animal life in the lake to form a complete picture of overall water quality.

Forest Preserve education staff realize the excitement and anticipation students and teachers feel when joining us for a floating classroom program, but there are circumstances when it is unsafe to include the canoe portion of the program. In the event that canoe use is not possible, staff is prepared with additional activities to present a complete education program.

Waiver and Release forms are required for all students attending this program. Download the waiver »

Availability

Floating classroom programs are primarily held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, but are also offered on Sterling Lake at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth on May 6, 7, 9, and 10, 2019. This program is typically offered September–early October, and late April–May.

Cost

$218 ($290 nonresident) 4.5 hours, 45 students, 6 adults/group max

New This Year

If the full 4.5 hour program is not the right fit for your group, contact our staff at 847-968-3321 to discuss a customized, shortened Lake Ecology field trip to meet your specific curriculum needs and time constraints.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

LakeEcology

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Lives of Voyageurs — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Go back to early Lake County as 18th-century French voyageurs lead activities on land and water. Discover why voyageurs traveled to Illinois in the 1740s and learn their effect on natural and cultural development. Weather permitting, paddle our 34-foot canoe across the lake and back in time.

Forest Preserve education staff realize the excitement and anticipation students and teachers feel when joining us for a floating classroom program, but there are circumstances when it is unsafe to include the canoe portion of the program. In the event that canoe use is not possible, staff is prepared with additional activities to present a complete education program.

Waiver and Release forms are required for all students attending this program. Download the waiver

Availability

Floating classroom programs are primarily held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, but are also offered on Sterling Lake at Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth on September 18, 19, 20 and 21. This program is typically offered September–early October, and late April–May.

Cost

One group, $140 ($200 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Two groups (must be same day), $160 ($220 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Three groups (must be same day), $205 ($290 nonresident) 1.5 hours
Four groups (must be same day), $220 ($310 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Group size: 17 people total (students + adults)

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

LivesoftheVoyageurs_FurTradeSecrets

Mammals

Age 3 – Grade 12

We're mammals, but what does that mean? We'll look at pelts and skulls to learn similarities and differences between everything from bats to beavers and how these animals are adapted to their habitat. Then we'll go outside to look for animal tracks and signs.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

Age 3–Grade 2: $40 ($76 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 3–12: $50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Mammals

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Maple Syruping — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students learn how trees turn water, the sun's energy and air into sap. Then it’s into the sugarbush to practice drilling and watch the sap flow. A stop at the evaporator shows how sap becomes syrup. Everyone gets a chance to compare sap and taste real Ryerson Woods maple syrup.

Availability

This program is held at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

Age 4–Grade 6: $55 ($91 nonresident) 1 hour
Grades 7–12: $65 ($101 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyruping

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Maple Syruping (self guided) — Available Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Age 4 – Grade 12

Students get a taste of the syrup-making process from start to finish. Every student has a chance to practice drilling holes, see sap collecting in buckets and taste fresh Ryerson Woods maple syrup. Teacher materials provided.

Availability

This program is available at Ryerson Woods throughout March.

Cost

$25/group ($50/group nonresidents) 1 hour (suggested time), 20 people/group max

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

MapleSyrupSelfGuidedjpg

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Pond Study — Available Fall, Spring

Illinois Science Standards

Grades 4–12

Use nets to catch tadpoles, snails, and dragonfly nymphs. Budding scientists work with microscopes and dichotomous keys to examine their catch and observe the interactions among organisms. Students will use species diversity to assess the pond's health.

Availability

This program is available at Wright Woods in Mettawa, September–early October and late May–early June.

Cost

$50 ($86 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Pond_Picture_2

Predator/Prey

Grades 3–12

Learn food chain basics with an outdoor simulation of predator and prey interactions. Dissect owl pellets to determine what happens to prey. A face-to-face meeting with a live predator reveals its special role in nature.

Availability

This program is primarily offered at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, September–February and April–early June.

It is also offered at the following locations on the dates specified:

 
Fall 2019 and Spring 2020  
Hastings Lake Sep 16, 23, 30, 2019; Apr 20, 27, May 4, 2020
Greenbelt Cultural Center Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 2019; Apr 21, 28, May 5, 2020
Van Patten Woods Shelter A Sep 20, 27, Oct 4, 2019; Apr 24, May 1, 8 2020

Cost

$70 ($106 nonresident) 1.5 hours

Concurrent programs are available.

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3321 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

PredatorPrey

All the Way with Adlai

All the Way with Adlai

Illinois Learning Standards

Grades 3–12

Take a closer look at this influential and important figure in United States political history by visiting the place he fondly called home. Students will examine his 1952 and 1956 campaigns to learn more about the presidential election process.

Availability

This program is available year-round at the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home in Mettawa.

Cost

$3/person ($5/person nonresident) 1 hour and 15 mins, 30 people/group max

Reservations

Reservations are taken by phone at 847-968-3400 or using the button below.
Make reservations now - plan early to help ensure you get a schedule that meets your needs.

Adlai
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