In the grand kaleidoscope of states that comprise the United States of America, Illinois sits proudly as a sparkling gem. A symphony of nature, cities, farms, and rivers, she gleams with the charm of the Midwest, a crown set with the gleaming jewel of Chicago. The kids of Illinois, especially those who participate in Nature activities, aren't just ordinary kids - oh, no, they're something far more adventurous! Meet our hero, a dapper raccoon named Racket. Racket, with his bandit-masked eyes and bushy tail, is as spunky as a summer thunderstorm, and just as electrifying. He's a charming rogue, always ready to guide our brave Illinoisan kids on their explorations. From the wild prairies of the south, where nature whispers ancient stories through the tall, swaying grass, to the secret corners of the Shawnee Forest, where trees older than time itself stand tall, Racket and the kids seek adventures. And boy, do they find them! They go bug hunting, canoeing on gleaming rivers, and stargazing in the clear, country nights, giggling at constellations with funny names like "Boötes" (which, by the way, Racket always mispronounces as "Booties" just to make them laugh). Imagine a group of kids, cheeks flushed with excitement, rosy from both the exertion and the cold, as they embark on a winter hike through Starved Rock State Park. There’s Racket, leading the way, slipping and sliding in the snow in a way that makes everyone chuckle. In the state of Illinois, every day is a new adventure, and every child is a brave explorer, and every raccoon? Well, he just might be the coolest guide you've ever met!
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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
Bring the whole family to discover how to love and care for trees at the Morton Arboretum! With 16 miles of hiking trails and nine miles of driving and biking roads, there's something for everyone. Kids can learn about the diverse collection of trees from around the world while enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes. And you can be sure to find plenty of educational activities to keep them entertained. Open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to sunset, the Arboretum is the perfect place to spend a day or more outdoors. The Arboretum is also committed to protecting and preserving our environment. They conduct leading scientific research on tree health and improvement and collaborate with organizations throughout the region and around the world to ensure trees thrive. By visiting the Arboretum, you can be part of a greater effort to plant and conserve trees for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Make sure to check out the Arboretum’s website for more information about their mission and upcoming events.
The Morton Arboretum is a public garden and outdoor museum with a wealth of experiences for the whole family. Situated on 1,700 acres of land, there are over 200,000 cataloged plants, from 4,100 different species. Families can explore the trails, drive or bike around the grounds, and take a break in the 4-acre interactive children's garden or the 1-acre maze. The Arboretum is also a place of education, with courses in ecological restoration techniques as well as credit courses through the Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area. Schulenberg Prairie, a Midwest pioneer in prairie restoration, is one of the largest restored prairies in the Chicago suburban area.