Outdoor Play
National Park Week 2021
Celebrate National Parks Week by learning about what they are and where in the Midwest you can find one. […]
hiking
Hiking & Trails
Little Hikes: Old School Forest Preserve – Pink Trail
Hiking with kids requires a bit of preparation and planning. You want to find a trail that’s the shorter side and one that is interesting enough that they will be engaged and not complaining. Hiking […]
Hiking & Trails
Hike Lake County Challenge
As you settle back into school, don’t forget about scheduling some family time, or maybe just some “me time.” Fall is a perfect time to get outside and explore the natural wonders of Lake County. […]
Hiking & Trails
Gas Tank Getaway: Starved Rock State Park
When you think of the state of Illinois, you might picture flat, prairie land. But this is Illinois, too: Did you know Starved Rock is located about two hours from Lake County? After years of […]
Hiking & Trails
Little Hikes: Volo Bog {Ingleside}
Volo Bog is an adventure waiting to happen. Bring the kids, bring a snack or meal to eat on the lawn, and then experience firsthand the only quaking bog in the State of Illinois and […]
Outdoor Play
25 Places to Go with an Early Riser
The age-old problem: what to do with the toddler who wakes up at 6:00 a.m. when nothing is open before 9:00 a.m.! Actually, there are (at least) 25 places to go with an early riser and toddlers […]
Hiking & Trails
Little Hikes: Nippersink Forest Preserve {Round Lake}
I have always loved hiking and being outside in nature. I was so happy when we moved to Lake County and I found out how amazing the Lake County Forest Preserve District is. Two of […]
Fall
Favorite Places to Play in Fall Foliage
Lake County is a beautiful place to be during autumn. The oaks, maples, birch, and countless other trees, shrubs, and grasses paint a rainbow of colors. The ground cover is crunchy, but not wet. And […]
Family Travel
Great American Campout {2016}
The National Wildlife Federation is partnering with Disney in a summer-long celebration of camping as a way to connect people with nature and wildlife. They are challenging families to pitch a tent and experience the great outdoors. […]
Hiking & Trails
Best Hikes for Little Hikers in Lake County
I love to hike and explore the outdoors, and I want to teach my family to love it as well. However, I have learned the hard way a couple of times now to be sure […]