Outdoor Science and Learning
Not sure what a dolomite prairie is? We've got you covered. Get started by visiting the displays at the Welcome Center and find out more about Midewin's history and geology. One visit offers numerous lessons on nature and land management.
Viewing Wildlife
Midewin is home to 16 endangered and threatened species, including the loggerhead shrike. It also harbors Illinois's largest breeding population of endangered upland sandpipers. Midewin is also home to 108 species of breeding birds (149 use the site for breeding feeding, or wintering), 40 aquatic species, 23 species of reptiles and amphibians, 25 conservative insect species which require native plant communities to survive, and 27 species of wild mammals.
Viewing Plants
Midewin is host to 348 native plants. These plants can be seen in the remnant prairies, restored prairie, and native seedbeds.
Viewing Scenery
Midewin's prairie complex includes dolomite prairies, one of the rarest natural communities in North America, in addition to grasslands, savanna, wetlands, seeps, upland forests, and three streams.
Visitor Programs
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie offers various Visitor Programs throughout the year. The most popular programs include the Summer Tour Program and the Winter Lecture Series. Depending on availability, specific programs can be arranged for organized school groups. Please contact the Midewin Welcome Center to check availablity. Volunteer workdays can also be arranged for large organized groups as well. Please see the Volunteer page for more information on volunteering at Midewin.
Search for Outdoor Science and Learning Opportunities
Buttonbush Pond Overlook
Chicago Road Seedbed
Explosives Road Trailhead
Hoff Road Trailhead
Iron Bridge Trailhead
River Road Seedbeds
River Road Trailhead
South Patrol Road Prairie Restoration
Turtle Pond
Welcome Center