Kids Dive Right Into New Nature Play Space at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

Dozens of excited children wasted no time exploring the new Nature Play Space at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles. As soon as the ribbon was cut during the Nov. 9 grand opening, the kids rushed into the space and got right to playing.

Developed by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County and the Kane Forest Preserve Foundation, the nature-inspired playground encourages children to use their imaginations, explore the outdoors and learn through hands-on play.

A winding trail connects five themed outdoor areas where children can build shelters with sticks, dig for hidden treasures, create mud kitchen concoctions, make music with nature-inspired sounds and enjoy a quiet place to observe their surroundings.

The space was made possible through support from the Kane Forest Preserve Foundation, Grand Victoria Riverboat Foundation, Ball Horticultural and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve is located at 37W700 Dean St. in St. Charles. The Nature Play Space is across from the red barn, next to the Durant House Museum.

​Learn more at www.kaneforest.com.