Search Nature Programs through Online Registration
NEW! Night Fishing
You supply your family and/or kids and we will supply the rods, reels, bait and instructions. These 35 minute fishing sessions are conducted by the IDNR Fishing instructors are free to attend, but you must pre-register. Please note: if you are 16 or older, you must carry a valid Illinois fishing license. You may purchase one at local sporting goods stores or the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. For more information email Mike Diamond at: mdiamond@bartlettparks.org
Required: Age 16 or older must have fishing license
Age: 8 through adult
Location: Beaver Pond, 994 W. Stearns Rd
Instructor: Nature Center Staff and Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Register for NEW! Night Fishing
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-15 | May 23 | F | 5-8pm | Free |
Bird Walks
Through engaging lectures on identification tips and tricks, birdwatchers will gain valuable insights into birding through sight and song. These walks offer a unique opportunity for the new birdwatcher or seasoned expert, connecting people to nature and deepening appreciation for our feathered friends. Wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, and leave pets at home please for this experience. Binoculars encouraged. (DG)
Age: All ages (under 16 w/adult)
Location: Pratt’s Wayne Woods, 6N179 Powis Rd., Wayne
Instructor: Peggy Hernandez
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 20339-01 | June 3 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
| 20339-02 | June 17 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
| 20339-03 | June 8 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
| 20339-04 | July 22 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
| 20339-05 | Aug. 5 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
| 20339-06 | Aug. 19 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $11 |
Birding Basics
Start a new hobby this summer learning birding basics like colors and sizing before going outside to practice using binoculars. The focus will be geared towards getting youngsters interested in birdwatching by sight and song. This hands-on program will help kids develop an appreciation for wildlife, encourage outdoor exploration, and teach valuable skills such as patience, observation, and listening. (DG)
Age: 7-12 w/adult
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road, James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Peggy Hernandez
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee | |
| 20339-07 | June 14 | Sa | 9-10am | $11 | |
| 20339-08 | June 28 | Sa | 9-10am | $11 | |
| 20339-09 | July 19 | Sa | 9-10am | $11 | |
| 20339-10 | Aug. 16 | Sa | 9-10am | $11 | |
| 20339-11 | Aug. 30 | Sa | 9-10am | $11 |
Astronomy
Learn about stars, planets, and the night sky; each program focuses on a different type of astronomy. Our program begins with background information, showing images in our astronomy auditorium about sunset, and then heading outside for some real time viewing, weather permitting.
The class is rain or shine, as we will adapt to the weather
conditions. This class will be held partly outside and Insect repellent is highly encouraged. (DG)
Age: Families (8 and over, under 16 w/ adult)
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road, James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Peggy Hernandez
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee | |
| 20339-12 | June 10 | Tu | 9-10:30pm | $11 | |
| 20339-13 | July 23 | W | 8:30-10pm | $11 | |
| 20339-14 | Aug. 7 | Th | 8:30-10pm | $11 |
Prairie Hikes
Get your heart pumping and blood flowing while you observe a beautiful state park –no two hikes will be the same. Learn about wildlife, history of the park, and so much more. To request a hike for a different group, please call 847-608-3120. (DG)
Age: All ages (under 16 w/adult)
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road, James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Mike Diamond
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee | |
| 20339-15 | June 21 | Sa | 10-11am | $11 | |
| 20339-16 | July 19 | Sa | 10-11am | $11 | |
| 20339-17 | Aug. 16 | Sa | 10-11am | $11 |
NEW! Mastering Paracord Bracelets
Unlock your creativity and dive into the world of paracord crafting. This hands-on program is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, guiding you through the step-by-step art of making durable, stylish, and personalized paracord survival bracelets.
Whether you’re looking for a fun hobby or a practical skill, this session will teach you everything you need to know about the history and uses of paracord, knotting, and design customization. By the end, you’ll have created a bracelet to wear and show off to your family and friends. (DG)
Age: 8 and over (under 16 w/adult)
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road, James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 20339-18 | July 12 | Sa | 12noon-1:30pm | $21 |
Take Your Best Shot with Our Archery Programs!
Looking for a bullseye activity that’s fun, exciting, and right on target? Our archery programs are perfect for beginners and seasoned archers alike! Whether you want to aim for a new skill, celebrate a special occasion, or give the gift of archery, we’ve got the perfect arrow in our quiver for you.
Private Archery Programs – $47 per person
Get one-on-one coaching to sharpen your skills and hit the mark with expert instruction.
Archery Birthday Parties – $235
Celebrate with a 1-hour archery adventure, plus a 1-hour gift/party room to keep the fun going after the last whistle blows.
Archery for Beginners – $140 for 3-1 hour lessons
Ready to take your first shot? This beginner-friendly course includes three 1-hour lessons to teach you the basics of bows, arrows, and hitting your target.
Private Archery Lessons – $188 for 4 lessons or $47 per hour
Fine-tune your technique with four 1-hour private lessons and get laser-focused on your archery goals!
Don’t miss your shot—sign up today and let the arrows fly.
Archery Programs at Bartlett Nature Center
The archery program at Bartlett Nature Center is offered year-round. Shooting takes place both indoors and outdoors, weather dependent.
All equipment is provided, recurve bows under 40 pounds are accepted; no compound bows or hunting arrows allowed. Private archery lessons are also available (see above). Please call 847-608-3120 for more information. Required: Closed toe shoes
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road, at the James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Certified Archery Staff
(Spring) Intro to Archery: 8 through adult
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 59696-04 | May 31 | Sa | 10-11am | $17 |
Introduction to Archery
Experience the exciting world of archery with personalized instruction from certified instructors. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned archer, our classes focus on safety, shooting techniques, and basic skills to help you master the art of the bow and arrow. Unleash your inner warrior as you embark on a journey of precision and strength and discover the secrets of archery in a safe and supportive environment. All archery equipment is provided, but only recurve bows under 40 pounds are accepted; no compound bows or hunting arrows allowed.
Required materials: Closed toe shoes
Age: 8 and over, under 16 w/ adult
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road,
James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 29696-01 | June 14 | Sa | 10-11am | $21 |
| 29696-02 | July 12 | Sa | 10-11am | $21 |
| 29696-03 | Aug. 9 | Sa | 10-11am | $21 |
Archery for Active Adults
Get ready to embrace a new challenge or brush up on your skills. During this class led by certified instructors, you’ll learn essential safety tips, perfect your shooting techniques, and master basic skills. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or a complete novice, join us and experience the thrill of hitting the bullseye with style. All archery equipment is provided but only recurve bows under 40 pounds are accepted; no compound bows or hunting arrows are allowed.
Required materials: Closed toe shoes
Age: 50 and over
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road,
James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 29696-04 | June 28 | Sa | 11:30am-12:30pm | $18 |
| 29696-05 | July 26 | Sa | 11:30am-12:30pm | $18 |
| 29696-06 | Aug. 23 | Sa | 11:30am-12:30pm | $18 |
Archery for Women: Unleash Your Inner Archer
Indulge in an exhilarating girls’ night out with our archery for women’s class tailored exclusively for ladies aged 18 and up. Whether you’re a complete novice, seeking to refresh your skills, or a seasoned shooter, our certified archery instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Dive into the world of archery as you learn essential safety tips, master shooting techniques, and hone your basic skills in a supportive and empowering environment designed just for women. Held indoors for your comfort, all equipment is provided, so grab your friends and join us for
an unforgettable experience where you’ll discover the thrill of hitting the Bullseye with style and precision. All archery equipment is provided but only recurve bows under 40 pounds are accepted; no compound or hunting bows and arrows are allowed.
Required materials: Closed toe shoes
Age: 18 and over
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road,
James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 29696-07 | June 13 | F | 5-6pm | $18 |
| 29696-08 | July 11 | F | 5-6pm | $18 |
| 29696-09 | Aug. 8 | F | 5-6pm | $18 |
Private Archery Lessons/Classes
You may CUSTOMIZE this experience!
Archery is fun, which you’ll realize the instant you release your first arrow. One-on-one archery will accelerate your learning because you receive the instructor’s full attention for 1 hour. Your instructor will teach you safety tips, shooting techniques and basic skills and might also mix in fun games, or have you shoot balloons to ensure your lessons are never dull. Equipment provided. Call Bartlett Nature Center at
847-608-3120 for availability. Students may bring their own recurve bow under 40 lb. draw or equipment can be provided; no compound bows allowed. (DG)
Required materials: Closed toe shoes
Age: 12 and up, under 16 with an adult
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Road,
James “Pate” Philip State Park Shelter weather permitting, otherwise held inside Bartlett Nature Center
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Fee: $47 per person per hour
Fall Fest Oct. 18, 2025
All ages are invited to enjoy Fall Vibes as you stroll through our Craft Fair, jump on a hay wagon ride, play games and activities with your family and friends or shop at our mini-pumpkin patch. More details coming soon. This event is FREE, however, some food and other vendors will have a fee.
Eco-Friendly Fair Oct. 18, 2025
This unique fair partnered with our Fall Fest invites crafters, artisans, and home-based natural product businesses to participate in showcasing and selling their takeaway goods. Local honey, flowers, natural home care, and other items are appropriate. If it pertains to nature we would love to have you as a participant. Please call 847-608-3120 to inquire about participating as a vendor or visit bartlettnaturecenter.org for more information.
Winterfest: Returns in Winter 2026
Break your cabin fever and experience winter on the prairie. Adopt-A-Husky will be at the Bartlett Nature Center with their teams of Siberian Huskies and Sleds. Watch as they run our mile trail and learn about the history of dog sledding and the equipment they use. Additional indoor and outdoor activities will be taking place including an Iditarod slideshow presentation, snowshoeing and more. To ensure a safe and fun environment, please leave your own dogs at home. This event is FREE, requires no advanced registration, however donations are welcome. Please call
847-608-3120, or visit bartlettnaturecenter.org for more information. This event is held in partnership with Adopt-A-Husky.
Annual Wishmas Tree
November 15, 2025 through January 31, 2026
Spread your holiday cheer November through January by supporting the animals at Bartlett Nature Center. Tags are available during the Wishmas season to select and bring your gift to the nature center. Open M-F 9am-4pm or Saturday 9am-12noon (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day). Thank you for making our animal dreams come true.
Wishmas Tree Season November 15-January 15
Spread the holiday cheer by supporting the animals at Bartlett Nature Center. Tags are available during the Wishmas season to select and bring your gift to the nature center. Open M-F 9am-4pm or Saturday 9am-12noon (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day). Thank you for making our animal dreams come true.
NEW! Discovery Backpacks Available for Check Out
Turn your next hike into a hands-on exploration of the outdoors with our Discovery Backpack program. Each Discovery Backpack is packed with fun tools and supplies, including magnifying glasses, field guides, binoculars, activity sheets and more. Discovery Backpack check is available: Monday through Friday 9am-2pm (return by 4pm) Saturday 9-11am (return by 12noon).
How It Works:
Leave your car keys as a deposit and check out a backpack. No fee required. Go explore, discover, and have fun. Return everything in good condition and retrieve your car keys. It’s easy and a great way to learn and play outside. Usage is restricted to onsite trails.
Snowshoe Rentals
When 2 inches of snowfall is on the ground, you can come try a fun and new sport.
Your car keys serve as your deposit (so you won’t lose them in the snow).
Snowshoes may only be used at James “Pate” Philip State Park.
| Activity | Time | Cost |
| Snowshoe Rentals Activity | 9am-2pm M-F
9-11am Saturday |
$5 each, 2 hour limit |
