Review: Explore 20 in 2020
"Explore 20 in 2020" was a challenge coordinated by 815 Outside to encourage folks to get outside and explore new places over the summer of 2020. Those who visited 20 local parks, preserves, trails and outdoor attractions and shared on social media were...
Indigenous History in Winnebago County
Territory Acknowledgement for Winnebago CountyWe acknowledge that Winnebago County resides within the traditional homelands of many Indigenous nations:Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk, formerly Winnebago)Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo)Bodéwadmik (Potawatomi), Odawa, and Ojibwe...
Orchards and the Great Outdoors
Apple orchards are one of the best parts of autumn! Embrace this fall by bringing your favorite local cider and snacks to a nearby natural area and soak in the fresh air and open space. Here are the closest trails to four local orchards, so you can turn...
Best Hiking in the 815
Learn about the best trails in the area from local hikers who participated in the Explore 20 in 2020 Challenge! Name: Linda Niemiec Age: 67 Favorite hiking spot: Kishwaukee Gorge North Comments: It’s a hikers paradise of diverse woodlands,...
Must-See Prairies in Bloom
Northern Illinois prairies in summer are a paradise for wildflower lovers. Local naturalists recommend these five preserves for breathtaking views and blooms. Kieselburg County Forest Preserve 5801 Swanson Road, Roscoe, IL 61073 Kieselburg...
Six Ways to Celebrate the Sun in Winnebago County
The Summer Solstice is an annual astronomical phenomenon that brings the longest day of the year and the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. The solstice was an important cultural event in many ancient societies, and it remains one for some...
Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared!
Practice these simple guidelines to maximize your fun outside What to BringSun protectionBug sprayFull water bottleFirst Aid KitWhat to WearWear long pants and long sleeves to avoid getting poison ivy, bug bites, and sunburnTuck your pant legs into your...
Join the “Explore 20 in 2020” Challenge!
Register for the "Explore 20 in 2020" Challenge"Explore 20 in 2020" is a fun challenge coordinated by 815 Outside. We invite you to visit 20 local parks, preserves, trails and outdoor attractions and document your visits on social media to qualify for...
Stay Safe Outdoors During COVID-19
During this difficult time, it's to get outside and experience nature — there is a huge body of research that shows the benefits to physical, mental and emotional health. In order to protect our community and ourselves, it’s important to experience the outdoors safely...
Get Outside and Try Patch Birding or Yard Birding
Patch Birding or Yard Birding is a fun way to watch and keep track of all the birds in a specific areas. Patch Birding or Yard Birding is a way to list all of the bird species you have seen from a very specific, small site, like your yard or a specific patch of woods...
