Kane County Forest Preserve District notes

Make sure your kids get the most of Kane County Forest Preserve District nature camps.

During "Week in the Woods," kids explore the outdoors with the naturalist staff. Through guided hikes, nature games and activities, kids will discover native plants and animals in their habitats and learn the importance of these living things in the web of life.

The "Week in the Woods" schedule is:

Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls in Gilberts: July 7-11 for first and second-graders; and July 14-18 for third to fifth-graders.

Johnson's Mound Forest Preserve in Elburn: July 21-25 for first and second-graders; and July 28-Aug. 1 - Grades 3-5.

All "Week in the Woods" sessions are from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration is $50 per child. Advance registration is required. Call (847) 741-8350, ext. 10, to register.

Near to Nature: This summer, the Forest Preserve District wants to help you and your preschooler get up close and personal with the outdoors. Join us for our popular "Near to Nature" program series, offered at various preserves throughout Kane County.

During the program, children ages 3-6 and their caregivers will explore the woods and fields with District naturalists. We'll go on a guided hike, play games and take part in other fun, nature-related activities. Registration is $5 per child, per session. "Near to Nature" sessions are offered:

Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 10 - 11 a.m. at Burnidge Forest Preserve, 38W235 Big Timber Road, Elgin

Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 10 - 11 a.m. at Tekakwitha Woods Nature Center, 35W076 Villa Maria Road, St. Charles

Thursday, Aug. 28, from 10 - 11 a.m. at Les Arends Forest Preserve, 2S731 Route 31, Batavia

To register, call the Forest Preserve District of Kane County at (847) 741-8350. For more information on these or other nature programs, visit www.kaneforest.com.

20s and 30s: The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is launching an active recreation series for those in their twenties and thirties.

This 20s & 30s program is free, however, registration is highly encouraged. To register or if you would like more information, call (847) 741-8350. Upcoming programs in the 20s and 30s series include:

"Twilight Hike and Campfire" - Thursday, July 17, 8 - 9:30 p.m. at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, St. Charles. We'll meet at the shelter on the north side of Dean Street. Our twilight walk will begin at 8 p.m., and the campfire will follow. We'll wrap up at 9:30 p.m.

"Discover the Prairie" - Sunday, Aug. 24, 9:30 - 11 a.m. at Dick Young Forest Preserve, Batavia. The Illinois prairie is in its prime at this time of year, so come prepared to be amazed!

Storytime: The Tekakwitha Woods Nature Center will be filled with stories when staff from the St. Charles Public Library bring books, finger plays, songs and more for kids, infant through age 5.

Children and their caregivers are welcome to join us for these fun, free events. After the program, stay and enjoy the interactive exhibits or go on a hike through the Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve.

"Story Time at Tekakwitha Woods" is 10:30 - 11 a.m. on the following Fridays: July 18, July 25 and Aug. 15.

Although the program is free, those interested are encouraged to register by calling (847) 741-8350. The District may add or cancel programs depending on attendance estimates, so please call ahead to let us know if you plan to join us.

Tekakwitha Woods is off Route 25, one mile north of Army Trail Road. The address is 35W076 Villa Maria Road, St. Charles.