Spring is in full swing, and the Forest Preserve District of Will County is offering exciting programs throughout May for people of all ages. From seed swapping to fishing derbies, wildflower hikes, and women’s wilderness weekends, there is something for everyone.
Starting May 3rd through May 31st, visitors can participate in the Spring Seed Swap program. Drop off seeds you have saved and trade them for someone else’s to spice up your garden. Open-pollinated vegetables, herbs, flowers, and native seeds are welcome for trade or donation. Label your seeds and provide care instructions. All ages are welcome, and the program is free.
For women who love the great outdoors, the WILL-derness, Women’s Weekend is perfect for you. From May 5th to May 7th, join the Forest Preserve for a women’s camping weekend to renew and restore your body, mind, and spirit. Unplug and enjoy the outdoors with camping, archery, hiking, crafts, evening campfires, camp cooking, outdoor skills, mindfulness activities, and more. The program is for ages 21 or older, and the fee is $20 per person. Registration is open until May 2.
On May 6th, the Forest Preserve will hold an Adult Fishing Derby at the Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook. Three sessions will be offered throughout the day, and first, second, and third-place prizes will be awarded for the biggest catches for each session. The program is open to ages 16 or older, and the fee is $5 per person. The Forest Preserve will provide one container of nightcrawlers, and participants should bring their favorite fishing pole and a packed lunch.
Visitors can also take a wildflower hike at McKinley Woods – Frederick’s Grove in Channahon or explore the many wildflower species found in the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. There will be a May Day Heyday celebration at Plum Creek Nature Center in Crete Township, and a Wildflower Walk at O’Hara Woods Preserve in Romeoville.
Additionally, the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center is offering Sensory Sundays on May 7th and June 4th. This independent program is for guests with sensory-processing needs, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder. Buddy bags, noise-canceling headphones, and handheld audio units will be available for use. Staff will be on hand to help, and the program is free.
Online registration is available on the Event Calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org. For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit the website.
