Hidden Oaks Nature Center To Reopen In Early 2025

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Renovations at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook are on track and the building should reopen to the public in the first quarter of 2025, according to a release from the Forest Preserve District of Will County.

Forest Preserve Executive Director Ralph Schultz, who has overseen the project since the nature center site closed in February, said building and outdoor renovations should be completed in the fall and new indoor exhibits are scheduled to be installed in December.

“Once the work is completed, the building will be more accessible, more welcoming and more comfortable,” Schultz said in a release. “But it’s going to come alive with the programming. That’s what is going to make the space special.”

The project will convert the former Bolingbrook Park District site, which was purchased by the Forest Preserve in February 2022, into a nature center tailored to Forest Preserve-type exhibits and activities.

“We believe this was a great investment for the taxpayers of Will County,” Schultz said. “The funds were available in the Forest Preserve’s budget from a previous bond issue. For a $2 million price tag, they’re going to have an almost brand-new facility.”

The Hidden Oaks Preserve area around the nature center is also closed for safety reasons during construction. This includes the parking lot, the shelter/pavilion and the nature trail behind the building, according to the preserve.

There could be some delays before the work is finished, but Schultz expects the building to reopen on schedule and to be ready to host visitors and activities in 2025 and beyond.