Forest Preserve

http://fpdcc.com/

The Cook County Forest Preserve District was established to acquire and hold lands containing one or more natural forests, or lands connecting such forests, or lands capable of being forested, for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna, and scenic beauties within such district, and to restore, restock, protect and preserve the natural forests and such lands together with their flora and fauna, as nearly as may be, in their natural state and condition, for the purpose of the education, pleasure, and recreation of the public…

Adapted from the Illinois Enabling Act

Picnic Permits

Picnic permits may be purchased online through the Forest Preserve’s website, or in person at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County General Headquarters, 536 N. Harlem Avenue, River Forest, IL, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

For more information or to apply online, click here.

Picnic Grove Maps

Picnic Grove Maps display the individual picnic area groves that are included with picnic permits, to review these maps click here.

Private Event Facilities

Mathew Bieszczat Volunteer Resource Center (formerly the Edgebrook Community Center)
The Forest Preserve District of Cook County’s Edgebrook Community Center can be rented out for private parties, weddings, birthdays, communions, baptismal events and organizational meetings.  The room is open and ready for occupancy.

The Volunteer Resource Center is located at 6100 North Central Avenue, Chicago, IL.  Building capacity is 100 and parking is free.

For additional information or to place reservations at the Edgebrook Community Center, call Special Events at (773) 792-0149 or (773) 631-1790, ext. 13.