2026 Picnic Permits On Sale Soon, Camping Reservations To Open For Cook Co. Forest Preserves

COOK COUNTY — Permits for picnics and special events, and camping reservations at Cook County Forest Preserves go on sale Monday, Nov. 17.

Starting at 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 17, the public can reserve a spot for 2026 celebrations including family reunions, company picnics, birthday parties or even a wedding while surrounded by nature in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. All 2026 dates to spend a night under the stars camping at one of the Forest Preserves’ five campgrounds will open at the same time.

Visitors with guests who have a disability can request both picnic shelters or camping options that offer accessibility features, including accessible parking, curb cuts and a path from parking to picnic shelter, and an accessible bathroom.

2026 Picnic & Event Permits

Permit sales for 2026 picnics and special events begin on Monday, Nov. 17 at 8 a.m. online at fpdcc.com/permits and over the phone by calling 800-870-3666, option 1. It’s strongly advised to book reservations online due to the anticipated high call volume. Online, customers can also view information such as site availability, picnic grove maps and the cost of their event location.

Permits may be purchased in person with a valid federal or state-issued identification card starting Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm at the Forest Preserves’ General Headquarters, 536 N. Harlem Ave. in River Forest, or the Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center, S. Western Ave. and W. 87th St. in Chicago. Both locations will be accepting appointments and walk-ins. Appointments can be made through fpdcc.com/permits.

For questions or assistance with online picnic and event permit purchases, contact Forest Preserves permits staff by calling 800-870-3666, option 1, emailing fpd.permits@cookcountyil.gov or visiting fpdcc.com/permits.

2026 Camping Reservations

All 2026 camping dates are also available beginning at 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 17. Camping reservations can be made online at fpdcc.com/camping or by phone at 855-YES-CAMP (855-937-2267).

Residents and visitors can still enjoy camping—in a tent, RV or heated cabin—at Camp Bullfrog Lake, Camp Reinberg, Camp Dan Beard and Camp Sullivan throughout winter.

For questions or assistance with making camping reservations, call 855-YES-CAMP (855-937-2267).

Other Permits

Customers planning 2026 picnics and special events with more than 400 people may submit applications now via email at fpd.permits@cookcountyil.gov or via fax at 708-771-1071. Applications are available at fpdcc.com/permits.

Indoor room rental reservations for 2026 event dates are also available now. All locations may be viewed at forestpreserveevents.com. Contact indoor room rental staff by emailing info@forespreserveevents.com or calling 773-558-2003 for more information.

Reservations for league use of athletic fields will be accepted on February 2, 2026 at 9 a.m. More information is available at fpdcc.com/athletic-field-permits.