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...
815 Outside encourages locals to connect with outdoors
Winnebago County officials are working together to help encourage people to get outdoors and connect with nature in the Stateline.
Enjoy the Outdoors in Winnebago County
815 Outside is the area’s comprehensive resource for outdoor recreation; inviting residents and visitors of all walks of life to connect with the county’s natural areas in fun, new ways and develop healthy lifestyle habits. 815 Outside was born out of the idea that...
County-wide Collaborative Announced
Connecting the Community to Natural Treasures Today (4/26/19) Winnebago County Chairman Frank Haney and Severson Dells Nature Center Director Ann Wasser announced the launch of the 815 Outside initiative today at Blackhawk Springs Forest Preserve at a news conference....
