Imagine shady groves filled with laughter, kids running across open fields, music drifting through the trees and a table spread set just steps from a lake. If you’ve never planned a picnic or event in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, you may be overlooking one of the easiest ways to create a truly memorable gathering. Beginning Monday, November 16, the Forest Preserves will make planning an unforgettable event easy when online reservations for 2027 picnic groves and special event sites open, giving hosts a choice of nearly 300 groves across the county, including nearly 50 accessible sites. Beginning November 17, permits may also be purchased in person on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Forest Preserves’ General Headquarters, 536 N. Harlem Avenue in River Forest, or the Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center, S. Western Avenue and W. 87th Street in Chicago. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments can be scheduled at fpdcc.com/permits. For questions or assistance with making camping reservations, call 855-YES-CAMP (855-937-2267).

Photo Credit: Forest Preserves of Cook County