McHenry County Conservation District activities
Energize yourself and keep those winter blahs at bay - check out the activities that await you in McHenry County Conservation District Areas.
There is something for every interest and every speed whether gliding quietly on
cross-country skis in freshly fallen snow or feeling the rush from sledding or snowmobiling. Discover what winter has uncovered as you hike along a woodland path, ice fish on frozen ponds, lay down tracks by snowshoe or experience the adventure of tent camping in winter.
Take advantage of special winter activities such as Cross Country Candlelight Ski evenings, winter owl hikes, scavenger hunts and open house events.
To view the programs and events in greater detail or sign up to receive the quarterly newsletter Landscapes, visit the district's Web site at MCCDistirct.org. Programs require advance registration which is accepted online, by phone or walk-in at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake, (815) 479-5779.
The majority of Conservation District sites are open year round but some winter activities are site specific and dependent on weather conditions. Cross-country ski trails require 3 to 4 inches of packed snow, ice fishing and skating are possible once the ice is 4 inches thick, snow shoeing is best when there is 6 inches of light fluffy snow, and snowmobile trails open after Dec. 10 once there is at least 4 to 6 inches of snow on unfrozen ground. Check the district Web site at MCCDistrict.org for specific locations and helpful safety tips. For more information, call (815) 338-6223.
For adults
Winter camping: McHenry County Conservation District has officially opened the winter camping season Dec. 1 at Marengo Ridge Conservation Area, at 3100 N. Route 23 in Marengo. Winter tent campers can enjoy camping and exploring more than 5 miles of hiking and cross-country ski trails that wind through the oak and evergreen woodlands at Marengo Ridge. Both large and small groups are welcome; the campground can accommodate up to 160 people with parking for 20 vehicles.
To make reservations, call the McHenry County Conservation District's administrative office at
(815) 338-6223 at least 10 working days in advance of your desired date in order to obtain the required permit. Call now for winter camping dates; reservations for the 2009 camping season will be taken beginning Jan. 5.
The district's other campsites in the county are closed for the winter season and will reopen on April 1, with the exception of Thomas Woods. Thomas Woods, the individual tent and RV campground at Marengo Ridge, will reopen on May 1.
Green Resolutions: Resolve to be green in 2009 and attend Green Resolutions, another offering in a continuing series for adults called Sustainability 101. Various ways you can change your life in order to be more environmentally aware and to have less impact upon our planet will be discussed from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Wiedrich Education Center in Glacial Park, Ringwood.
Solstice Celebration: The winter solstice brings the longest, darkest night to the northern hemisphere. For centuries this event has been a call for celebration; find out why from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Prairieview Education Center, Crystal Lake. We'll investigate old and new ways to celebrate this celestial event and demonstrate traditions to bring home for a family solstice celebration. Participants will make their own Yule log. Come prepared for both indoor and outdoor activities, weather permitting. Program fee of $5 per person must accompany registration.
Nearer to Nature: With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, spending time in the natural world is often ignored. Taking the time to get closer to the season might mean actually getting outdoors away from the hum of the holidays. Join the group from 10:30 a.m. to noon Sunday, Dec. 21, at Coral Woods in Marengo to slow down and explore the environment in a way that will bring you nearer to nature. Dress for the weather and bring your good cheer.
For all ages
Nature Games: Take a break during this hectic season for Nature Games from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. Get some fresh air and spend some quality time playing together as a family in Coral Woods, Marengo. We'll lead you through some fun and educational outdoor nature games, so dress for activity and the weather.
Owl program: Spend an afternoon with the short-eared owls from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. The short-eared owl is an Illinois endangered species but we are fortunate to have them visit Glacial Park every winter. Enjoy a winter hike at dusk to search for these special creatures. Bring binoculars if you have them, and dress for the weather.
Nature's Matinee: Bring the family to Nature's Matinee from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, to enjoy an afternoon showing of "Ice Age" on the big screen at Wiedrich Education Center in Glacial Park, Ringwood. Afterward the group will learn what parts of this movie were based on real life as we take part in some fun activities about Glacial Park's ice age. Popcorn and drinks will be provided but you may bring your own snacks too.