Willowbrook offers overnight camp out

Enjoy a rare chance to sleep under the stars at the Wildlife Camp Out as part of the Willowbrook Wildlife Center's 60th anniversary celebration.

The camp out runs from 6 p.m. Saturday, July 30, through 9 a.m. Sunday, July 31, at Willowbrook Wildlife Center, 525 S. Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

The camp out will include dinner and breakfast, a program on owls, a starlit hike, campfire stories and a chance to meet Willowbrook's raptors. Campers will set up their tents behind the visitor center in 40 acres of restored habitat known as the "Back 40," and specific tent locations will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

"Bring your camping gear and sleep under the stars with your family at Willowbrook," said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Joe Cantore.

The program is for ages 7 and older; those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $30 for ages 16 and older, $20 for ages 7 to 15. Campers should bring tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, flashlights, rain gear, toiletries, snacks, water, insect repellent, binoculars and clothing for the next day.

A few four- and six- to eight-person tents will be available for rent for an extra fee. Campers can register online, where they can also download a packing list, or at (630) 942-6200.

"This one-of-a-kind event allows participants to experience Willowbrook in a way that has never been done before," said Forest Preserve District Commissioner Tim Whelan, District 4.