Third Annual Family Campout Under the Stars

The Des Plaines Park District hosted their third annual Family Campout on June 28-29 in Prairie Lakes Park. Back by popular demand, this overnight, close-to-home campsite gave first time and experienced campers a night under the stars. Families enjoyed a

flashlight nature scavenger hunt through the park searching for rocks, leaves, flowers, and treasures; a roaring campfire; roasting marshmallows and making s'mores; story time around the campfire; a game of flashlight tag; and fun with glow in the dark bubbles. Campers had an opportunity to view the night skies through a high-powered telescope, courtesy of Norm Strahm, an adjunct professor at Oakton Community College and the faculty advisor for the Astronomy Club. "We were able to see sun spots early in the evening and after sunset we saw Mars and Saturn," said Cindy Yelich, Special Events Supervisor. A torrential down pour at 4:00am made way for sunny clear skies Saturday morning, and a continental breakfast of donuts, coffee cake, and juice Saturday morning. "For many of our families, this is their first campout away from home," said Yelich. "We hope to see everyone back next year and some new families, too."

For more information about summer classes, events and programs visit DPParks.org or call 847-391-5700