Nature Center
The Nature Center is located at 330 N. Main St, Crystal Lake. Located in Veteran Acres Park, The Nature Center is an ideal starting point for a hike through the Veteran Acres Woods and Wingate Prairie.
Mission
It is the mission of the Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center to improve the quality of life for the community by providing high quality nature-based recreation opportunities which include formal and informal education programs and the preservation and restoration of native ecosystems.
Since the Nature Center re-opened in 1998, we have upgraded and are constantly striving to improve our facilities, but our goals have remained the same. Open year-round, we provide a unique opportunity for anyone to experience nature through progressive programs, hands-on activities, seasonal exhibits and volunteer opportunities. Located in Veteran Acres Park, the ideal starting point for a hike through the Veteran Acres Woods and Wingate Prairie.
Nature Programs in Activity guide
Nature Center Hours of Operation
The Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center is temporarily closed as construction begins on new, exciting exhibits! Grand Re-Opening Celebration event scheduled for June 1, 204 (info below). Programs will be held at Oakwoods Lodge during construction.
Nature Center Special Event
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EXHIBITS
Since the Nature Center re-opened in 1998, we have upgraded and are constantly striving to improve our facilities, but our goals have remained the same. Open year-round, we provide a unique opportunity for anyone to experience nature through progressive programs, hands-on activities, seasonal exhibits and volunteer opportunities. In 2017, the Nature Center indoor exhibit areas including aquarium and habitat wall were completely renovated. Many new exhibits were added and existing exhibits were enhanced and updated. The Nature Center is also home to the following special exhibits:
BUTTERFLIES AND BEES
Every summer we have live butterflies fluttering about our Butterfly Habitat. There is no registration or fee required, although a $1 per person donation is appreciated. Our see-through bee hive allows visitors to watch how a live bee hive works in action. The butterflies will begin to arrive and the bees will become most active after Memorial Day through Labor Day
PAUL FRIEND FOSSIL COLLECTION
The Nature Center is a grateful recipient of an amazing collection of fossils donated by Paul Friend, a longtime Crystal Lake resident and amateur fossil collector. The extensive collection would be at home in any natural history museum in the world, but Mr. Friend donated them to the Crystal Lake Park District Nature Center because he wanted to be sure that the collection would be on display for people to enjoy.
Most of the fossils are from an area in northern Illinois, south of Joliet, and are considered to be Mazon Creek Fossils. Fossils from this area are world famous because of their quality and diversity. They are unusual in that they preserve soft bodied animals as opposed to the fossilized remains usually found like teeth, bone and shells. The Mazon Creek Fossils are from plants and animals that lived during the Pennsylvanian period of roughly 300 million years ago when much of what is now Illinois was covered by a shallow inland sea. The fossils were first unearthed when the area was mined for coal. The locations where Mr. Friend found most of his collection are referred to as Pit 11 and Pit 14. These two locations are known throughout the world as the source of many of the Mazon Creek Fossils and refer to the mine pits of the Peabody Coal Company.
Among the fossils donated are the following:
- Arthropleura cristata - Segments from a millipede that reached up to 6 feet in length. This fossil is quite rare due to the fact that so few have been found in North America. Both the Field Museum and the Burpee Museum have reproductions of this exact fossil.
- Tullymonstrum gregarium: Also known as the "Tully Monster" this is the state fossil of IL. No one is quite sure what it is because nothing alive today even remotely resembles it. It is also unique in that fossils of the "Tully Monster" have only been found in Illinois and nowhere else in the world.
- Numerous fossilized jellyfish
- A variety of plant fossils
- Fossilized crustaceans resembling modern day shrimp
- Fossilized polychaete worms
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NATURE PROGRAMS
The Nature Center offers nature themed programs year-round. Please see the current brochure for current programs.
GEOCACHING
Geocaching is an outdoor activity that pairs GPS technology with an old-fashioned treasure hunt. Geocaches, or caches are small containers that usually have small trinkets to trade and a log book to sign when it is found. Once a cache is hidden, the longitude and latitude are posted on the internet for all to find. Geocaches are hidden all over the WORLD and quite a few in our PARKS.
All you need for this adventure is a GPS unit. If you are interested but don't know if you want to invest in a GPS unit, we have a limited number at the Nature Center that can be checked out, free of charge. We will then give you a quick "how to" session and you're on your way to finding one of the many caches in Veteran Acres.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Our Birthday Party Programs are 2.5 hours and consist of 15 minutes for set-up, a 1 hour instructor lead program, 1 hour of "free time" for gifts and cake (not provided) and 15 minutes for cleanup.
Fee: $140 (includes up to 15 participants). Each additional guest will be charged $6 at the time of the party. We kindly request a two week notice. Please call the Nature Center to schedule your party. For more information please visit our Birthday Party page.
SPECIAL NATURE CENTER PROGRAMSTHE TRAVELING NATURALIST
Are you looking for a different idea for your club or organization's next meeting? You can schedule on of our Traveling Naturalists to visit your meeting! These 1 to 1 1/2 hour programs include hands-on activities and knowledgeable instructors. We have a variety of topics and can tailor a program to meet your needs.
Fee: $100
FIELD TRIPS AND GROUP PROGRAMS
School Districts, preschools, home school, clubs and more have benefited from our field trip programs. A typical program will last from 1-2 hour and will feature a hike and multiple educational station covering most any nature topic.
Call for group rates, 815-455-1763
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SCOUTS
The Crystal Lake Park District provides comprehensive Boy Scout and Girl Scout programs at the Colonel Palmer House and Nature Center. Classes and Merit Badge Workshops are offered in each seasonal brochure (open to scouts and non-scout)
CUB SCOUTS
- Achievement & Elective for Tiger, Bear, Wolf, Webelos and Arrow of LIght
- 1-1.5 hours of instruction
- Fees vary by program
- All instructors have completed Youth Protection Training
BOY SCOUTS
- Merit Badge Programs
- Programs available any time including evenings and weekends
- Length of programs vary
- Fees vary by program
- All instructors have completed Youth Protection Training and are registered Merit Badge Counselors
GIRL SCOUTS
- Troops can schedule programs on desired date.
- Badge and Journey Activities for Daisies through Seniors
- Cadette LIA opportunities
- Advisors for Bronze, Silver and Gold Award projects
- Fees vary by program
- Contact us for programs tailored to your troop's outdoor interests
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VOLUNTEERS
The natural areas found throughout the Park District offer a variety of opportunities for volunteers to make a difference by helping the environment. Individuals or groups can benefit from the rewarding and education experience of restoring our native ecosystems.
Butternut Nature Preserve
Volunteer Co-Stewards: Judi Stuck & Nicole Petra
Woodland and prairie preserve located on a branch of the Kishwaukee River
Work Days: TBD
Meet in parking lot on Butternut Road
Sterne's Woods Fen
Volunteer Co-Steward: Larry Smith & Brice Alt
One of the highest quality wetlands in the state
Work Days: 4th Sunday of the month, 9-11 AM
Veteran Acres and Wingate Prairie Nature Preserve
Volunteer Co-Steward: Jim Wigman
One of our popular sites, this has been formally dedicated as a sanctuary for native plants and animals
Work Days: 1st and 3rd Saturday of the Month, 9-11 AM, every Tuesday, 2-4 PM
Meet at the Nature Center
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CLIMBING TOWER
The Crystal Lake Park District has a 24 foot tower ready to climb! With three skill levels to explore, the climbing tower allows small groups to enjoy a few rounds of climbing. All required climbing gear is included. Participants need to wear rubber sole shoes suitable for climbing. Weight capacity for climbers is 250 lbs and wind conditions may not exceed 20 miles per hour when tower is vertical. Climbers must have a parent/guardian sign a waiver prior to participation.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Ages 6 & Up
One Hour of Climb Time / 2.5 Hours Total for Party
Max. 12 persons = $250
SCHOOLS & GROUPS
One hour of climb time = $125
Two hours of climb time = $200
* extra charge for off-site program
SCOUTS
30 Minutes of Instruction
One hour of climb time
Per participant = $20 (Min. 6/Max. 12 people)
WE ARE PORTABLE! CALL 815.455.1763 FOR DETAILS
Latest News
- May 08 Social Dance Night- Tango & West Coast Swing on May 17
- May 03 Summer Registration Now Open
- Apr 29 The Cottage Donates Towards Summer Day Camp Scholarships
- Apr 25 The Racket Club Outdoor Courts Grand Opening Celebration on Sat, Apr 27
- Apr 24 Crystal Lake Park District Summer Day Camp Recognized as One of America's Best
- Apr 03 FREE, Drop In Solar Eclipse Special Event at Nature Center on April 8
- Apr 03 Spring Adult Softball League Play Begins April 22
- Apr 02 Dance, Sing & Play in Crystal Lake Park District Final Spring Session of Tot Programs
- Apr 02 Proposed Budget FY 2024-2025 on Display
- Apr 02 Batting Cages at Lippold Park Now Open for Season
- Mar 28 Important Information for Crystal Lake Boaters-Decals, Boat Launch Key Fobs, Dry Storage Spots Available for Purchase Apr 1
- Mar 14 Project Update: New Park on Haligus Rd in Lakewood
- Mar 12 Pickleball and Tennis Courts Open Early for the Season!
- Mar 10 Community Garden Plots Available at the Crystal Lake Park District
- Mar 07 Spoerl Park Playground Closed for Playground Surface Installation
- Mar 07 Last Chance to Register for Women's Self Defense Worksshop on Mar 23
- Mar 06 Limited Spots Still Available for Springtime Tea at Colonel Palmer House
- Mar 04 Spring Firewood Sale on March 16-Reserve Today!
- Mar 01 Crystal Lake Park District Receives OSLAD Grant for Della St Park Renovation
- Mar 01 Crystal Lake Park District Receives Illinois Parks and Recreation GameTime/PlayCore Grant for Haligus Park Playground
- Feb 08 Crystal Lake Park District Digital Camp Guide is Live
- Feb 07 Natural Resource Management Project Underway at Veteran Acres
- Feb 06 2nd Annual Galentine’s Day Brunch on Feb 11
- Feb 05 Social Dance Nights and Dance Lessons for Adults at the Crystal Lake Park District
- Feb 05 Registration Now Open for Barlina House Preschool 2024-2025 School Year
- Jan 28 Family Winter Mini Golf Event at Lippold Family Golf Center-CANCELLED
- Jan 18 Natural Resource Management Project Underway at Winding Creek Park and Bike Path
- Jan 12 Monday Memory-The 1935-1950 Tobaggan Slide at Lake Park (now Main Beach)
- Jan 08 Reg by Jan 19 for the Snowbird Softball Tournament
- Jan 08 Limited Spots Still available for Hearts & Artists, A Valentine’s Tea at Colonel Palmer House
- Jan 07 Natural Resource Management Project at Sterne's Woods and Fen
- Jan 04 Tot-Teen Dance Classes Featuring a Spring Recital Begin Jan 8
- Jan 04 New sessions of Crystal Lake Park District Group Fitness and Yoga classes begin in Jan 8
- Jan 04 Enrolling Now Winter Spring Martial Arts Classes including Pre-Karate, Shotokan Karate and Hapkido
- Jan 02 Crystal Lake Park District Offers Free Holiday Light Recycling through Jan 15
- Dec 15 Winter/Spring Activity Guide Registration Now Open
- Dec 14 Natural Resource Management Project Underway at Woodscreek Park
- Dec 07 Holiday Gift Giving Made Easy with Crystal Lake Park District Gift Cards
- Dec 07 Nature Center Temporarily Closed For Exhibit Remodeling
- Dec 06 Limited Spots Still available for A Norman Rockwell Tea on Dec 16 & 17
- Dec 04 2nd/3rd & 4th/5th Grade Boys Basketball League-Registration deadline Jan 5
- Nov 21 Enroll Now for Hapkido Starting on Nov 29
- Nov 21 Luminaria Walk at Veteran Acres Nov 29-Dec 2
- Nov 07 Haligus Road Park Design Update Meeting on Nov 8
- Nov 07 Dog Obedience Begins Nov 22
- Nov 07 November Youth/Teen Variety Classes
- Nov 01 Protect Yourself From Scams & Burglaries Workshop on Nov 10
- Nov 01 Grand Oaks Walking Club 2023
- Oct 26 Register Now for Puzzle Palooza on Nov 5
- Oct 24 Fall Firewood Sale on Nov 4-Stock Up for Your Fall Bonfires!
- Oct 16 Plan to Attend the Hill Farm Park Community Input Meeting on Oct 24
- Oct 13 Free Family Fun at Truck or Treat on Sat, Oct 28
- Oct 11 Book at Wagon Ride Through Sterne's Woods
- Oct 10 Henrietta's Harvest-CANCELED due to inclement weather
- Oct 04 Social Dance Nights at Grand Oaks Plus Line Dancing Class & Couples Social Dance
- Oct 03 NEW Programs & Events at Colonel Palmer House
- Oct 02 Lippold Park Seal Coating Project Updates-Week of Oct 2
- Sep 19 Registration Open for Girls & Boys Basketball Leagues
- Sep 15 Fishing Line Recycling Receptacles a Success
- Sep 03 Enroll Now for Fall Session of Dance
- Sep 02 Youth Athletics Classes Begin Sept 9
- Sep 01 Women's Golf Clinic Begins Sept 3 at Lippold Family Golf Center
- Aug 21 Online Registration Down for Upgrades Tu, Aug 22 at 3 pm-Wed, Aug 23
- Aug 21 Snake Study Update-a collaboration with McHenry County College Biology Students
- Aug 15 Fall 2023 Registration Now Open
- Aug 11 It's A GO-Caddyshack is ON for Tonight, Fri Aug 11
- Aug 02 Community Input Survey-Della Street Park Renovations plus Community Input Meeting on Aug 16
- Jul 26 Caddyshack-Movie in the Park on Aug 11-Costume Contest Added to the Event
- Jul 25 Additional Date Added to Crystal Lake Park District Concert in the Park Schedule
- Jul 25 Public Invited to Peter Pan Jr Performance by Musical Theatre Camp
- Jul 24 July/August Programs at Colonel Palmer House
- Jul 14 Group Sailing Lessons Begin July 24
- Jul 14 Summer Hapkido and Women’s Self Defense Clinic
- Jul 07 July/August Nature Center Programs & Events
- Jul 05 Cops N Bobbers Gary Svejcar Fishing Derby for Kids on July 30
- Jul 05 Women’s Self Defense Clinic on July 22
- Jul 04 Crystal Lake Park District Adult Camp (21+)
- Jul 03 Swim Lessons Sess 2 begin July 10
- Jul 03 Save the Date-Sat, Jul 15, to UNPLUG After Dark at Veteran Acres
- Jun 29 Everything You Need to Know to Enjoy the Crystal Lake Parade and Fireworks Celebration
- Jun 27 Summer Tennis Lessons for Ages 5-Adult Session 3 begins Jul 17
- Jun 27 Crystal Lake Fireworks Info Plus Wristband Pre-Purchase Info
- Jun 26 FREE Summer Sing-A-Longs on June 28 & July 15
- Jun 25 Positive Pebbles Kits Available at the Administrative Office
- Jun 08 NEW Event! Aloha Summer Sunset Celebration on June 9
- Jun 01 Crystal Lake Park District Concerts in the Park Kicks off May 30
- May 27 2023 Beach Operations-Main Beach Opens Sat, May 27
- May 05 Registration Open for Summer 2023
- Apr 24 Thank You Crystal Lake Park District Volunteers!
- Apr 10 Lippold Family Golf Center Open for Season
- Apr 06 Limited Number of Community Garden Plots Available
- Apr 05 Line Dancing Class & Social Ballroom Class plus Social Dance Nights
- Apr 04 Spots Filling Quickly for Summer Camp 2023-Register Today!
- Apr 04 Crystal Lake Park District Nature Offers Spring Programs for Tots-Adults
- Mar 15 Crystal Lake Park District Awarded Urban and Community Forestry Grant for Tree Planting
- Mar 08 Crystal Lake Park District Awarded 2022 Government Award from the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County
- Mar 07 Crystal Lake Park District Awarded $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development Grant for Development of Park on Haligus Road
- Mar 06 Social Dance Nights March 10, April 22, May 19
- Mar 06 Paint Nites and Watercolor Painting
- Mar 06 Crystal Lake Park District Announces Spring Firewood Sale on March 18
- Feb 27 Update Regarding Northwestern Medicine Healthcare Crystal Lake Fitness Center and the Crystal Lake Park District
- Feb 22 Highlight the Night Son Date Night on April 28
- Feb 22 Mother Daughter Tea at Colonel Palmer House on April 30
- Feb 22 Four Winds Casino Trip and Land of Lincoln Trip Still Have Limited Spots Available
- Feb 22 New Sessions of Youth Athletics Beginning Feb 27 and Apr 24
- Feb 21 EVP Spring Break Volleyball Camp Mar 27-30
- Feb 19 Register NOW for Summer Camp!
- Feb 15 Next Session of Little Medical School Veterinarian Programs Begins March 24
- Feb 15 Summer 2023 Seasonal Jobs-NOW HIRING
- Feb 13 Register Now for Puzzle Palooza on March 19
- Feb 07 Valentine/Galentine Zumba Party Scheduled for Feb 10
- Jan 20 NEW! Galentine's Day Brunch with the Crystal Lake Park District
- Jan 20 Dates Nights for Sons and Daughters in Feburary and April
- Jan 19 Limited Spots Still Available for this Season's Adult Trips
- Jan 17 Willows Edge Park Invasive Brush Clearing Efforts Underway
- Jan 16 Snowbird Softball Tourney Team Registration Due by Jan 27
- Jan 15 EVP & Crystal Lake Park District Host Snow Volleyball Tournament
- Jan 02 Register by Jan 6 for Boys Basketball League
- Dec 23 Free Holiday Light Recycling thru December 30
- Dec 22 Winter Spring Activity Guide Available and Registration is Opens Dec 9
- Dec 07 Send Us Your Letter to Santa by December 9
- Dec 05 Holiday Break Camps for Youth and Teens
Upcoming Events
- May 08 Art Attack! Sip and Paint-May Crystal Lake Park District Admin. Office, 1 E. Crystal Lake Avenue, Crystal Lake
- May 11 Cardboard Available for Pick Up for Regatta Boat Builders Maintenance Garage, 305 Lakeshore Dr, Crystal Lake
- May 17 Tango & West Coast Swing Social Dance Night Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lakeshore Dr, Crystal Lake
- May 18 Cycling Without Age-May Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Dr, Crystal Lake
- May 24 Make & Take Tea Workshop Colonel Palmer House, 660 E. Terra Cotta Avenue, Crystal Lake
- Jun 01 Cycling Without Age Lippold Park Family Golf Center, 1251 W. Route 176, Crystal Lake
- Jun 01 Nature Center Grand Re-Opening The Nature Center, 330 N. Main St, Crystal Lake
- Jun 14 Aloha Summer Teen Luau West Beach, 2330 Lake Ave, Crystal Lake
- Jun 15 Cycling Without Ages-June Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Dr, Crystal Lake
- Jun 21 Summer Sing-a-Long (BBR Band) Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Dr, Crystal Lake