Search Nature Programs through Online Registration
Nature Tots: Age 2-4 w/ adult
Join our engaging class at Bartlett Nature Center, where adults and kids explore new themes like Animal Homes, Trees, and Turtles through stories, songs, movement, and games. Enjoy guided outdoor activities that enhance social skills, motor and sensory development, and parent-child bonding, with all participants required to register and pay in advance. Price is for two participants; extra siblings are $8 each.
Instructor: Bartlett Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Program | Date | Day | Time | Fee (Reg. Req.) |
| 40330-06 | Fish | March 27 | Th | 10-11am | $16 per parent/tot couple |
Little Explorers
Connect with nature through the mysterious eyes of an animal, act like a six-legged insect and feel the wind on your face. Engaging with your child creates lasting memories and fosters a love for the natural world. Younger siblings are welcome to join.
Age: 2-4 w/adult
Limit: 6/12
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee (Reg. Req.) |
| 50339-27 | April 3 | Th | 10-11am | $16 per parent/tot couple |
| 50339-28 | April 24 | Th | 10-11am | $16 per parent/tot couple |
| 50339-29 | May 8 | Th | 10-11am | $16 per parent/tot couple |
NEW! World Turtle Day
Meet our two Blanding’s turtles and Eastern Box Turtle. Learn how turtles survive during the cold winter months, discover what a plastron is, learn how a shell works, and many more cool facts
Age: 4 and over
Limit: 15/30
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd. James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for NEW! World Turtle Day
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-30 | May 23 | F | 10-11am | $7* |
*Siblings 3 and under with a registered participant are free.
Animal Ambassadors
It takes a lot of TLC to keep our animal ambassadors here at our nature center happy and healthy. You can see what it takes to care for over 20 important animals for a “behind the scenes” look at our animal care program. Presentations will conclude with a feeding demonstration for that species. Registered participants will be given the opportunity to interact with animal ambassadors. Children may be seated on the floor while children 3 and under will be asked to sit with their grown-ups.
Age: 4 and over
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd. James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for Animal Ambassadors
| ID# | Program | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-31 | Snakes | April 12 | Sa | 10-11am | $7* |
| 50339-32 | Geckos | May 10 | Sa | 10-11am | $7* |
| 50339-33 | Bearded Dragons | May 17 | Sa | 10-11am | $7* |
| 50339-34 | Turtles | May 24 | Sa | 10-11am | $7* |
*Siblings 3 and under with a registered participant are free
Astronomy Starry Nights: Families (age 5 and over with adult)
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 repellant is highly encouraged.
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Peggy Hernandez
Register for Astronomy Starry Nights
| ID# | Theme | Date | Day | Time | Fee (Reg. Req.) |
| 50339-16 | Spring Stars & Planets | April 16 | W | 7:30-9pm | $10 per person |
| 50339-17 | Crescent Moon/Gemini | May 2 | F | 8-9:30pm | $10 per person |
| 20339-12 | Moon, Mars & Beehive Cluster | June 10 | Tu | 9-10:30pm | $11 |
| 20339-13 | Summer Triangle | July 23 | W | 8:30-10pm | $11 |
| 20339-14 | Perseus, Andromeda, & Perseids | Aug. 7 | Th | 8:30-10pm | $11 |
Story Time
Enhance your child’s social skills and motor development while bonding in our interactive Story Time class, designed for meaningful parent/child connections in a small group setting. Each session features a new story and a focus on a different animal or habitat, with additional opportunities to explore the nature center and engage with staff after the program.
Prairie Hikes (Hike with Mike)
Get your mid-week spring-into-fitness vibe as you take a guided nature hike with expert Mike. Get your heart pumping and blood flowing while you learn to observe a beautiful state park – where no two hikes will be the same. Learn about wildlife, history of the park, and so much more when you Hike with Mike. *If you would like this hike for a different group, please call 847-608-3120 to request.
Register for Prairie Hikes with Mike
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee (Reg. Req.) |
| 40339-04 | March 26 | W | 9-10am | $10 |
Guided Bird Walks
Through engaging lectures on identification tips and tricks, birdwatchers will gain valuable insights into birding through sight and so ng. 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.
Age: 18 and over
Limit: 15/30
Location: Pratt’s Wayne Woods, 6N 179 Powis Rd., WayneApril 29 & May 27: Pratt’s Wayne Woods, 6N179 Powis Rd., Wayne
Instructor: Peggy Hernandez
Register for Guided Bird Walks
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-18 | April 1 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-19 | April 8 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-20 | April 15 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-21 | April 22 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-22 | April 29* | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-23 | May 6 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-24 | May 13 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-25 | May 20 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 50339-26 | May 27* | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-01 | June 3 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-02 | June 17 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-03 | July 8 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-04 | July 22 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-05 | Aug. 5 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
| 20339-06 | Aug 19 | Tu | 8-9:30am | $10 |
*Meet in the main parking lot at Pratt’s Wayne Woods.
NEW! Family Fishing
We supply the rods, reels, bait, IDNR fishing instructors and “Fish`N Kids How-To-Fish” Instruction Booklets. This is an outdoor program so be sure to dress for the weather. Bring your gear and drop a line with us at Beaver Pond. 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.
Required: Age 16 or older must have fishing license
Age: 8 through adult
Limit: 8/35
Location: Beaver Pond, 994 W. Stearns Rd
Instructor: Nature Center Staff and Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Register for NEW! Family Fishing
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-14 | May 17 | Sa | 1-3pm | Free |
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
Limit: 8/35
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 |
NEW! Spring Smart: Animal Proofing your Home
As spring arrives, many animals are on the move, searching for safe spots to nest and shelter—which can sometimes mean your home or garden.
Join us for a practical, family-friendly program on how to humanely prevent wildlife from entering your attic, chimney, yard, or garden. Learn effective techniques to seal entry points, protect your garden, and create animal-friendly boundaries that keep critters safely outdoors. Our wildlife experts will share insights on the habits of common springtime visitors and provide tips on how to handle unexpected animal encounters. Perfect for homeowners, gardeners, and nature lovers.
Age: 18 and over
Limit: 15/30
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for NEW! Spring Smart: Animal Proofing your Home
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-35 | April 19 | Sa | 10-11am | $20 |
NEW! Scavenger Hunt Eco Explorers Challenge Month
April is our designated month for scavenger hunt-style challenges covering different ecosystems in and around the nature center. Visit Bartlett Nature Center front desk for details. As you explore, complete eco-missions to unlock clues that lead to Earth Day prizes. Perfect for families, groups, or solo nature lovers.
Age: All ages, under 16 w/adult
Limit: 15/30
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| April 1-30 | M-F | 9am-4pm | Free |
| April 1-30 | Sa | 9am-1pm | Free |
NEW! Wildlife Movie Reel: Earth Eco Flicks
Come on in for an immersive movie featuring a stunning PBS wildlife documentary. Experience breathtaking footage of animals in their natural habitats, gain insights into their behaviors, and discover the challenges they face in the wild. These captivating films are perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages and will inspire a deeper appreciation for our planet’s biodiversity. Settle into the auditorium and enjoy a cinematic exploration that brings the beauty of the wild directly to you.
Age: All ages, under 16 w/adult
Limit: 15/50
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Movie | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| Register for: 50339-01 | Hummingbirds | April 7 | M | 10-11am | $4 |
| Register for: 50339-02 | Beavers | April 14 | M | 10-11am | $4 |
| Register for: 50339-03 | Woodpeckers | April 21 | M | 10-11am | $4 |
| Register for: 50339-04 | Monarchs | April 28 | M | 10-11am | $4 |
NEW! Earth Day Birthday
Celebrate Earth Day with a hands-on experience at the Bartlett Nature
Center! Let’s roll up our sleeves and prepare for spring and summer by sprucing up the center to make it shine. Activities include general cleaning, refreshing animal tanks, and organizing supplies. This is a unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of the Nature Center. To our volunteers, we thank you for your time and hard work as we achieve great things together.
Age: 12 and over, under 16 w/adult
Limit: 15/30
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| Register for: 50339-05 | April 22 | Tu | 10am-12noon | Free |
| Register for: 50339-06 | April 26 | Sa | 12noon-1pm | Free |
NEW! Wild Wednesdays: Celebrating Earth Month
Get into Earth Month spirit with Wild Wednesdays—a series of exciting, hands-on programs designed to deepen your connection with the environment and inspire Earth-friendly actions. Every Wednesday
in April, join us for activities that explore different aspects of nature, from local wildlife and ecosystems to sustainability practices and conservation efforts. With guided nature walks, interactive workshops, eco-crafting, and family-friendly scavenger hunts, each week offers a new opportunity to learn and engage with the natural world around us. Perfect for all ages, Wild Wednesdays will leave you inspired to make a positive impact on our planet.
Age: All ages, under 16 w adult
Limit: 6/20
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
| ID# | Program | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-07 | Clean and Green | April 2 | W | 10-11am | $20 |
| 50339-08 | Roots of Renewal | April 9 | W | 10-11am | $20 |
| 50339-09 | Nature’s Recyclers | April 16 | W | 10-11am | $20 |
| 50339-10 | Wildlife Watch | April 23 | W | 10-11am | $20 |
| 50339-11 | Guardians of the Green | April 30 | W | 10-11am | $20 |
Drawing Comes to Life
Ever wanted to learn to draw or even improve your drawing skills? In this class we will be going over the basics of figure drawing and life drawing. We will be drawing from real-life subjects such as things found and nature and animals. If you have any art supplies of your own feel free to bring them.
Age: 10-15
Limit: 6/12
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for Drawing Comes to Life
| ID# | Date | Date | Time | Fee |
| 50339-12 | April 12 | Sa | 11am-12noon | $18 |
NEW! Paper Bead Making
Create unique and eco-friendly jewelry from handcrafted paper beads. This sustainable craft, popular today, has roots dating back to the Victorian era. Women would gather to make beads from leftover wallpaper, transforming scrap materials into beautiful accessories. Embrace this timeless art and give new life to paper, one bead at a time.
Age: 10-15
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for NEW! Paper Bead Making
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-13 | May 17 | Sa | 1:30-3pm | $18 |
NEW! Camping 101: Fire Building
How many times have you thought about camping only to think that you really do not know how to even build a campfire? WE GOT YOU. We will teach you the basics of fire building, the importance of safety and how to look like an expert on your first try. We will supply the firewood. Bring your notepads, pencils, and bravery.
Age: All ages, under 16 w/adult
Limit: 6/20
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for NEW! Campfire 101: Fire Building
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-36 | April 24 | Th | 4-5pm | $15 |
| 50339-37 | April 25 | F | 4-5pm | $15 |
NEW! Camping 101: Eco-Friendly Fire Starters
A very important part of camping is having the right tools. Making
eco-friendly fire starters is just one way WE HAVE YOUR BACK. Let’s get together and create your camping arsenal of fire starters before the campout season begins.
Age: All ages, under 16 w/adult
Limit: 6/20
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
Instructor: Nature Center Staff
Register for NEW! Camping 101: Eco-Friendly Fire Starters
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 50339-38 | April 10 | Th | 10-11am | $15 |
| 50339-39 | April 11 | F | 10-11am | $15 |
Birding Basics
Start a new hobby this summer learning birding basics like colors and sizing before going outside to practice using binocular s. The focus will be geared towards getting youngsters interested in birdwatching by sight and so ng. 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.
Age: 7-12 w/adult
Limit: 10/15
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., 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 |
Prairie Hikes
Get your heart pumping and blood flowing while you learn to observe a beautiful state park -no two hikes will be the same. Learn about wildlife, history of the park, and so much more. If you would like this hike for a different group, please call 847-608-3120 to request.
Age: All ages (under 16 w/adult)
Limit: 15/30
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., 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 crofters 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.
Age: 8 and over (under 16 w/adult)
Limit: 10/20
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., 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
(Winter) Archery Night Out: 18 and over
| ID# | Theme | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 49696-26 | Competitive Games | March 28 | F | 6-7:30pm | $16 |
(Winter) Intro to Archery: 8 through adult
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 49696-03 | March 29 | Sa | 10-11am | $20 |
National Archery Day Open House
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 59696-13 | May 10 | Sa | 2pm-4pm | Free |
(Spring) Intro to Archery: 8 through adult
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 59696-01 | April 5 | Sa | 10-11am | $17 |
| 59696-02 | April 26 | Sa | 10-11am | $17 |
| 59696-03 | May 3 | Sa | 10-11am | $17 |
| 59696-04 | May 31 | Sa | 10-11am | $17 |
(Spring) Archery For Active Adults: 50 and over
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 59696-05 | April 8 | Tu | 5-6pm | $17 |
| 59696-06 | April 22 | Tu | 5-6pm | $17 |
| 59696-07 | May 6 | Tu | 5-6pm | $17 |
| 59696-08 | May 20 | Tu | 5-6pm | $17 |
(Spring) Archery for Women: 18 and over
| ID# | Date | Day | Time | Fee |
| 59696-09 | April 8 | Tu | 6-7pm | $17 |
| 59696-10 | April 22 | Tu | 6-7pm | $17 |
| 59696-11 | May 6 | Tu | 6-7pm | $17 |
| 59696-12 | May 20 | Tu | 6-7pm | $17 |
Events
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 |
Fall Fest and Eco-Friendly Craft Fair
Age: Families, All Ages
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Location: Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., James “Pate” Philip State Park
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. 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 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.
Spread the 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.
