Preschool Peepers: Marching Ants
Prepare to get dirty as we learn about the life of these tiny creatures and go outside to search for some. $2/child. Register online by September 19. Register Online for this Event
53 events found.
Douglas Cup Tournament
BeautifulTrobaughField 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesJoin us for the national pastime: base ball! Cheer for your home team, the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels, at the Annual Douglas Cup Vintage Base Ball Tournament, played with authentic 1858 rules. Games will be held at BeautifulTrobaughField at Rock Springs Conservation Area. Douglas Cup Tournament Follow the team on Facebook for additional games and more information.
Dulcimer Club
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Featured
Prairie Pedal
Rock Springs Conservation Area 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesSupport local wildlife and natural areas by riding your bicycle in this annual fundraiser event for the Macon County Conservation Foundation.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Oglesby Mansion Open House
Oglesby Mansion 421 W. William St., Decatur, IL, United StatesTour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $5/adult and $2/child. The Oglesby Mansion is located at 421 W. William St. in Decatur, IL. >> Learn more about the Oglesby Mansion
Van Trip to Snake Road
Head south to Shawnee National Forest to discover a unique spot nestled in the Larue Pine Hills. 'Snake Road', as it's called, is a forest road that hosts a migration of snakes, turtles, and amphibians in the spring and fall. Join our naturalist and see what you can find. Wear long pants and sturdy shoes, and plan for a walk. Lunch is on your own; we will stop at a restaurant nearby. $35/person covers transportation. Register online by September 29. Register Online for this Event
Bethel School Open House
Friends Creek Conservation Area 13734 Friends Creek Park Road, Argenta, IL, United StatesSee what going to school was like in the early 20th century at this historic one-room schoolhouse located at Friends Creek Conservation Area. Bethel School is one of the best treasures in Macon County. Come and tour this one-room schoolhouse that served Macon County for over 50 years. Step back in history and tour Bethel School at Friends Creek Conservation Area. Admission is free and all ages are invited to attend. >> Read more about the Bethel School House
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Van Trip to Missouri Botanical Garden
Venture to St. Louis to explore the Missouri Botanical Garden. Experience the Climatron geodesic dome greenhouse, Japanese garden, Arid House, and more. $20/person. Lunch and admission are on your own. Register online by October 6. Register Online for this Event
Ruby Red Ladybugs Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Ruby Red Ladybugs, children will go on a search for these crimson beetles, learn about their lives, and see how many spots they can count. $8/child. Online registration ...
$8
Homeschool Program: Beneficial Bats
Friends Creek Conservation Area 13734 Friends Creek Park Road, Argenta, IL, United StatesEvent details Homeschool children ages 5-15 can join a naturalist and explore nature and history topics through discussion, hands-on activities, crafts, and games. Homeschool students will spend time indoors and outdoors, investigating concepts and engaging with nature. In Beneficial Bats, learn what makes bats so fascinating, determine myth from reality, and go on a walk to search for some. Event requirements Register online by noon October 6. $15/child. Meet at Bethel Schoolhouse at Friends Creek Conservation Area Register Online for this Event
$15
Ruby Red Ladybugs Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Ruby Red Ladybugs, children will go on a search for these crimson beetles, learn about their lives, and see how many spots they can count. $8/child. Online registration ...
$8
Dulcimer Club
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents.
Featured
Fall Harvest Festival
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesCelebrate fall at Rock Springs Nature Center with fall-themed activities including archery, canoeing, pumpkin painting, wagon rides, tours at Homestead Prairie Farm, and more. Archery and canoeing are $3 per person, pumpkin painting is $5 per pumpkin, and all other events are free. The Macon County Conservation Foundation will also have a concession stand with snacks for purchase. No registration required.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Acoustic Music Jam
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesEvent details Enjoy live bluegrass tunes at the monthly Acoustic Music Jam. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune, or simply enjoy the talents of these volunteer musicians. Event requirements None Free This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. Rock Springs Nature Center is an accessible facility.
Macon County Conservation District Board Meeting
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesMacon County Conservation District Board Meeting at Rock Springs Nature Center
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Featured
Treat Trail
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesExplore Rock Springs after dark for a spooky stroll along the treat trail! Put on your costume and bring your treat bag to visit a series of treat stops along the bike trail and through the pine forest. Each stop will also have an interactive activity to take part in. When you're through, stop inside the Nature Center for warm apple cider and cookies. $5 per treat-collector, $2 per accompanying guest. Registration opens Friday, August 29. Register online by October 15. More Information & Sponsor Information > Register Online for this Event
$5
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Preschool Peepers: Fall Colors
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover the colors of fall as we do a craft, read a story, and go outside in search of fall hues. $2/child. Register online by October 17. Register Online for this Event
Fuzzy Bats Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Fuzzy Bats, children will explore the lives of nature’s only flying mammal and learn what it means to be nocturnal. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor ...
$8
Fuzzy Bats Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Fuzzy Bats, children will explore the lives of nature’s only flying mammal and learn what it means to be nocturnal. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor ...
$8
Featured
Bigfoot Hike
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesLearn about our most famous cryptid and the history of local sightings and recorded sounds, then take a hike to try and find the "big guy" ourselves. We will also learn about the other nocturnal creatures of the forest and then wrap it all up with hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows around the fire. $5/person. Register online by October 23. Register Online for this Event
$5
Dulcimer Club
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents.
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Featured
Bigfoot Hike
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesLearn about our most famous cryptid and the history of local sightings and recorded sounds, then take a hike to try and find the "big guy" ourselves. We will also learn about the other nocturnal creatures of the forest and then wrap it all up with hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows around the fire. $5/person. Register online by October 23. Register Online for this Event
$5
Homestead Prairie Farm Open House
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDiscover this 1860s farmhouse and the lives of the people who lived there. Located at Rock Springs Conservation Area, 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL. Free.
Oglesby Mansion Open House
Oglesby Mansion 421 W. William St., Decatur, IL, United StatesTour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $5/adult and $2/child. The Oglesby Mansion is located at 421 W. William St. in Decatur, IL. >> Learn more about the Oglesby Mansion
Dave Castor Photography Exhibit
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesNorth Gallery Photographer Dave Castor presents a stunning collection of images that explore the interplay of light, texture, and landscape. His work invites viewers to see the natural world through a new and thoughtful lens.
Night Hike
Rock Springs Conservation Area 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesHow do our other senses compensate when our eyesight is limited? Find out through fun, sensory activities on a night hike along the Rock Springs - Fairview Bike Trail. Participants will meet on the Westlawn, west of the Rock Springs Nature Center. Please dress for the weather. $5/person. Register online by October 31. Register Online for this Event
Colorful Leaves Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Colorful Leaves, children will explore the lives of nature’s only flying mammal and learn what it means to be nocturnal. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor ...
$8
Visit the Sites Tour
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesJoin a naturalist at Rock Springs Nature Center, then hop in our van as we visit some of the other District sites throughout the county. $10/person. Register online by November 3. Register Online for this Event
Colorful Leaves Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Colorful Leaves, children will explore the lives of nature’s only flying mammal and learn what it means to be nocturnal. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor ...
$8
Dulcimer Club
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents.
Candlelight Tour
Homestead Prairie Farm 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesElectricity and modern conveniences were not always at our fingertips. Glimpse what an evening in the 1860s was like at Homestead Prairie Farm, lit by candlelight and lamplight, as guides in period clothing walk you through the home. Free. No registration required.
Free
Acoustic Music Jam
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesEvent details Enjoy live bluegrass tunes at the monthly Acoustic Music Jam. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune, or simply enjoy the talents of these volunteer musicians. Event requirements None Free This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. Rock Springs Nature Center is an accessible facility.
Nature Center Open, Offices Closed for Veterans Day
Rock Springs Nature Center will be open for its regular hours. The business offices will be closed for the Veterans Day holiday.
Homeschool Program: Wild Weather
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesEvent details Homeschool children ages 5-15 can join a naturalist and explore nature and history topics through discussion, hands-on activities, crafts, and games. Homeschool students will spend time indoors and outdoors, investigating concepts and engaging with nature. In Wild Weather, discover some of the many weather types we encounter in Illinois and learn about the effects of climate change. Participants will explore weather and climate through activities and outdoor exploration Event requirements Register online by noon November 10. $15/child. Register Online for this Event
$15
The Meskwaki Siege of 1730 in Central Illinois
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesIn 1700s Illinois, the French colonial empire allied with some Native Americans while it fought others including the Meskwaki people (once commonly known as the Fox tribe). In the summer of 1730, the Meskwaki fled French forces, but were encircled near the headwaters of the Sangamon River. Guest speaker Bill Kemp, Librarian of the McLean County History Museum, will explore the little-known story of the 20-day siege and its tragic outcome. Free. No registration required.
Preschool Peepers: Silly Spiders
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesLearn about our misunderstood spider friends through a story, craft, and outdoor exploration. $2/child. Register online by November 14. Register Online for this Event
Funky Turkeys Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Funky Turkeys, children will learn about wild turkeys and the curious lives they lead. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor excursions. A snack and bottle of ...
$8
Macon County Conservation District Board Meeting
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesMacon County Conservation District Board Meeting at Rock Springs Nature Center
Funky Turkeys Mini Camp
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesChildren ages 1 through 5 will explore nature with an adult companion through crafts, activities, songs, and stories. In this hour long camp, children will learn to analyze their surroundings and begin their love of exploration of the outside world through crafts, activities, songs, stories and hikes. These camps are a great stepping stone for little ones to spend time with other children and have the comfort of a loved one nearby. In Funky Turkeys, children will learn about wild turkeys and the curious lives they lead. $8/child. Online registration required. Dress for short outdoor excursions. A snack and bottle of ...
$8
Talking Turkey
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesLearn about the bird that almost became our national symbol. We will discuss the natural history of turkeys, their conservation saga in the state of Illinois, and what makes them unique. Free. Register online by November 21. Register Online for this Event
Dulcimer Club
Rock Springs Nature Center 3939 Nearing Lane, Decatur, IL, United StatesDulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents.
Offices & Nature Center Closed for Thanksgiving Day
The Rock Springs Nature Center and business offices are closed for Thanksgiving Day. However the trails at all five conservation areas remain open for you to enjoy.
Offices Closed for Thanksgiving
The business offices will be closed the day after Thanksgiving. Trails at all five conservation areas and Rock Springs Nature Center will be open.
Oglesby Mansion Open House
Oglesby Mansion 421 W. William St., Decatur, IL, United StatesTour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $5/adult and $2/child. The Oglesby Mansion is located at 421 W. William St. in Decatur, IL. >> Learn more about the Oglesby Mansion
