• Sangamon River Cleanup

    Rock Springs Conservation Area 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United States

    Help clear trash from the banks of the Sangamon River to make it a safer and more beautiful place for wildlife and people. Dress to get dirty and bring your own gloves. Bags will be provided. Come by yourself or bring the whole family. Organized groups should call 217-423-7708 in advance. Register and meet at the Rock Springs Information Shelter.

  • Festival of Spring

    Rock Springs Conservation Area 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United States

    Celebrate Earth Day and welcome spring with a day of outdoor family activities. In the morning, observe bird banding, go on a naturalist-led hike, or pitch in at the Sangamon River Cleanup. Then, in the afternoon enjoy wagon rides, canoeing, a live bird show from the Illinois Raptor Center, tours of Homestead Prairie Farm, and much more. Visit tables staffed by local community organizations to learn what they are doing to protect water and wildlife. Co-sponsored by the Decatur Area Audubon Society. Canoeing $3/person. All other activities are free. No registration required. More Information >

  • Independence Day 1860

    Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United States

    Enjoy an Independence Day celebration 1860s style! Tour Homestead Prairie Farm, see the heirloom vegetable and herb gardens, play with vintage toys and games, and at 6:30pm, enjoy a performance from the Rock Springs Dulcimer Club. Visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks. In case of rain, the concert will be moved inside Rock Springs Nature Center. Free. No registration required.

  • Astronomy Jamboree

    Friends Creek Conservation Area 13734 Friends Creek Park Road, Argenta, IL, United States

    Enjoy live music, children’s crafts, and hot dogs over the fire, then view the stars, visible planets, and possibly even a shooting star or two. Bring a lawn chair to sit and stay a while.  Free. Register online by August 7. Register Online for Astronomy Jamboree Calling amateur astronomers! We are looking for folks to bring and set up their telescopes and share knowledge during this “star party” at Friends Creek Conservation Area. Call Alysia at 217-423-7708 if you’re interested in bringing your scope.