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Frequently Asked Questions
 Q: Do I need a permit to have a picnic in the FPDCC, and if so, how do I get one?
A: If your picnic is for a group of 25 or more persons a Picnic Permit must be obtained. You can download an application for Picnic Permits online. You'll find this application and more information about Picnic Permits in Recreation, under Picnics.
Q: Can I hold a private event in the FPDCC? What facilities are available? A: Yes you can. Learn more about this in Private Event Facilities in About Us.
Q: Is alcohol permitted in the FPDCC picnic grove areas? A: Yes, but some of the forest preserves are alcohol-free. Please see our Picnics page in Recreation for a list of groves that are alcohol-free.
Q: Is fishing allowed in FPDCC waters, and if so, what information is available about the fishing areas? A: The District manages over 40 lakes for recreational sport fishing. Information about the fishing areas, including our complete Fishing Guide, lake maps, fishing and boating regulations, and types of fishes, can be found in Recreation listed under Fishing.
Q: What types of boats are permitted on FPDCC waters? A: Motorboats are restricted on FPDCC waters. Boats with outboard motors are only permitted on the DesPlaines River and the Little Calumet River. All other FPDCC boating waters only permit the use of electric motors on watercrafts. Sailboats, canoes, and rowboats are permitted on most FPDCC waters. Some areas offer boat rentals. For more information on boating in the FPDCC, visit our Boating and Fishing pages listed in Recreation.
Q: What golfing facilities are available in the FPDCC? A: There are ten golf courses consisting of eight 18-hole courses (three championship) and two 9-hole courses. We also have four driving ranges. Each course has a pro shop, concession, and motorized golf cart rentals (except Billy Caldwell) for your convenience. For information on reservations, golf fees, to view golf course plans, and more visit our Golf page in Recreation.
Q: Is horseback riding allowed on FPDCC trails? Do I need my own horse, or are there horses for hire? A: Enjoy horseback riding on the District's multi-use trail system. Ride your own horse or go on a guided tour from any of eight stables offering livery service. Visit our Equestrian page in Recreation for more information on horseback riding in the FPDCC.
Q: Can I hold a sporting event, such as a soccer or football game, on FPDCC grounds? A: Yes you can, but a permit is required. Special Activity FIELD Permits are issued for requests of the use of District property for sport activities, such as baseball, football, rugby and soccer. For more information, visit our Special Activities page in Recreation.
Q: What opportunities are available for volunteering at the FPDCC? A: Volunteering is encouraged at the FPDCC! Volunteers help in vegetation and habitat management, at the nature centers, in district litter clean-ups, and more. Scout and community service projects, student community service, internships and other avenues for public involvement are available and assistance is vital to the district. If you're interested in volunteering, please visit the Get Involved area of our website.
Q: What resources are available in the FPDCC for schools and teachers? A: Forest Preserve District of Cook County naturalists are available to work hand in hand with teachers to bring environmental education into the classroom. A wide range of opportunities exist for teachers of all grades and subject areas to incorporate environmental education into their curricula and state goal requirements. Please see Schools and Teacher Resources in the Environmental Education area of our website...
Q: Can I arrange a special clean-up project in the forest preserves for my group? A: Absolutely! Contact the District's Maintenance Department to coordinate a clean-up project. It's great for a Boy Scout or Girl Scout Service Project! And of course, we encourage groups or individuals to come out for the District's Annual Clean-Up Day held in the spring. Visit Clean-up Projects in the Get Involved area of our website...
Q: Are there programs for adults and seniors in the FPDCC? A: Yes, our forest preserves offer something for everyone. Nature programs designed specifically for adult and senior learners may include naturalist led bird walks, hikes, canoe trips and more. Discover what our Nature Centers have in store for you at the FPDCC...
Q: What should I do if I find an injured animal in the wild, or young wildlife without a living parent? A: Most of the time it is best for both animals and people to leave injured, ill, or "orphaned" wildlife alone. Injured or sick animals can bite or scratch, or occasionally carry diseases dangerous to people. "Orphaned" animals usually really are not abandoned, and should be left in the wild. For the rare instances where it is advisable to rescue an animal, the FPDCC operates a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility at Trailside Museum in River Forest. For more information please refer to What Should Be Done With Young Wildlife? or visit our Wildlife Rehabilitation page.
Q: Where can I report illegal activites, such as dumping on FPDCC lands or the illegal collection of plants or wildlife in the forest preserves? A: Please call the Forest Preserve Police: (708) 771-1000 to report suspected violations.
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