Sign up for Junior Naturalist I Camp
Sign up for Junior Naturalist II Camp
Through our Youth Education programs, young community members learn to understand, appreciate, and respect the importance of the natural world. Youth Education programs help develop environmental stewards of the future through nature and conservation programs and popular summer camps for two age groups.
Young Adult Education expands high school and college students’ conservation experiences through focused workshops, workdays, field trips, and mentorships.
Discover Nature
Come explore Illinois ecosystems with us. Pick prairie plant seeds and learn about native flowers. Catch and release frogs and fish in wetlands and creeks. Look for insects and birds. Walk through woodlands and discover giant oaks. Use your senses to listen for birds, smell the flowers, hunt for animal tracks, and so much more. Use nets, bug viewers, binoculars and microscopes to understand what is going on around us when we take a closer look at nature.
For outdoor events, wear clothing appropriate for the weather and planned activity to make your experience enjoyable. Remember to wear comfortable shoes or boots to keep your feet warm and dry.
Schools, Scouts & Group Programs
Providing memorable nature-based learning experiences is a hallmark of CFC. We support your group’s objectives and programs by sharing our outstanding resources, expertise and proven learning experiences. Helping youth experience the joy of nature helps build future generations of conservation stewards.
Local field trips, coupled with hands-on activities and information can support your objectives. We make learning fun.
Summer Camp
Learn about the nature all around us through hands-on experiences, fund, learning, crafts, and new friends.
We offer age-appropriate activities in small groups with a high adult-to-camper ratio. Two age-specific camps are offered each June.
Kids will be wowed by exploring prairie, wetland, and savanna habitats while learning about native flowers, butterflies, birds, insects, mammals, aquatic creatures and more.
Make memories that will last a lifetime. Have fun while learning about the importance of our natural world and what each person can do to help.