Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve

10/23/2026

There’s so much to discover at Plum Creek Nature Center! From a new interactive tree exhibit to fascinating fungi photos, there’s something around every corner to spark your curiosity. Explore the wood wide web, discover the surprising sounds mushrooms make and learn about careers that can take you outdoors in our new “See Yourself in the Field” exhibit. You can also get hands-on with our interactive bee touch bin, check out a real pumpkin in the process of composting and discover plenty of other surprises along the way. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or haven’t stopped by in a while, there’s plenty of new stuff to explore.

10/21/2026

Bobcats were once common in Illinois, but their population declined dramatically in the 1800s because of changes to their habitat and unregulated hunting and trapping. Because of these population losses, they were included on Illinois' first official list of threatened species in 1977.

The wildcats responded well to conservation measures, and they were removed from the state's threatened species list in 1999. Today, their population in Illinois continues to grow, and an estimated 5,000 bobcats live across the state.

Bobcats are the most abundant wildcats in the United States, but that doesn't mean you're likely to run into one. These elusive cats are masters at remaining unseen. 

10/19/2026

Fall is finally showing off, and there’s no better time to get outside and explore! Our fall Be a Trailblazer challenge is in full swing, with new places to discover, fun photo missions to complete and plenty of reasons to enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Haven’t joined the adventure yet? There’s still plenty of time! Cooler temperatures, colorful leaves and crisp autumn air make this the perfect season to hit the trails. Plus, there are some great prizes up for grabs!

Getting started is easy. Just download the free Goosechase app, search for “2026 Be a Trailblazer” or enter code JYBKK4, and start tackling those fall missions.

The fall session runs through Dec. 12, and we’ll be adding another round of missions in November to keep the adventure going.

Ready to see where the trails take you? Get all the details and start exploring here >>> https://bit.ly/47g5oqS

10/16/2026

Discover, explore and connect with nature at Plum Creek Nature Center! Nestled within Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve and just steps from the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, the nature center is the perfect place for families to spark curiosity and enjoy the outdoors. Get an up-close look at local wildlife, learn about native habitats and discover hands-on experiences that bring the natural world to life. Whether you're exploring indoors or heading out for an adventure, there's something for nature lovers of all ages.

10/15/2026

The pigments that create the vivid yellows and oranges that paint the fall landscape have been present since the trees leafed out in spring; they've just been masked by chlorophyll, the pigment that gives leaves their familiar green color.

Taking in the fall foliage has become such a thing that it's even generated its own term — leaf peeping. Here's your chance to learn more about the annual dazzling display.

10/12/2026

“They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky,” and it’s not just The Addams Family we’re talking about. Animals big and small scream Halloween — sometimes almost literally.

These creatures have a reputation for being some of the creepiest.

10/09/2026

In partnership with Birdability, Plum Creek Nature Center is hosting a birding by sound program intended for people who are blind and visually impaired. Recognizing birds by their songs and calls is a large part of birding and bird identification, and this hiking program will introduce participants to birding by sound only.

Birding for the Blind and Visually Impaired
When: 8:30 to 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 19
Where: Plum Creek Nature Center at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve
Registration is required.

10/19/2026: Join us as we bird by sound alone in this program geared toward the blind and visually impaired.

10/08/2026

Spend an evening walking through the woods in search of tricks instead of treats! Join us to learn about the darker side of nature through challenges and games before relaxing around a fire with drinks (BYOB) while roasting hot dogs and marshmallows.

Moonlight Masquerade
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17
Where: Plum Creek Nature Center at Goodenow Grove Forest Preserve
Registration required.

10/17/2026: Learn about the darker side of nature through challenges and games in this adults-only evening in the woods.

10/08/2026

"You get to experience things at Goodenow Grove that you might not find in your own neighborhood or park."

Facility officer manager Marissa Jones tells us why she loves spending time at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve.

10/02/2026

Squirrels are generally pretty active from spring through fall, but autumn brings about a heightened flurry of activity for these clever rodents. Signs of colder weather fuel a need to forage and cache food for winter.

Look around, and you'll see many signs of changing seasons.