KIDS
Face painting at LCF's Mudpuppy Festival
While our popular Mudpuppy Festival is taking a year off, we're still celebrating! In recognition of the mudpuppy salamander (the Sangamon River's coolest creature!) the city of Monticello has declared January 30, 2021, as Mudpuppy Day.
Mudpuppies are active all winter long, and you can be, too. Look below for family nature activities, indoors and out!
Print and Color at Home
"Mandy's Prairie Home" Coloring Book
All ages can enjoy coloring the beautiful black-and-white illustrations in this story of a Midwestern prairie threatened — then saved — written and illustrated by Gillian Moore.
Mandy, a Massasauga rattlesnake, lived happily in sunny, open prairie. But strange, invading plants began taking over her home. Her friend, the Wise Old Oak, saw its acorns struggle to survive in the cool shade. Could anything save them? Using fire — nature’s own tool — caring people bring Mandy’s home back into balance.
Winter Hiking Fun
Scavenger Hunt Bingo
There's plenty to discover on a winter hike! Take along our bingo card when you visit our Bruce Hannon Levee Trail. It's a fun way to encourage kids to look closely and appreciate nature in every season.
Illinois' Amphibians & Reptiles
Slime, Scales & Mudpuppy Tales
Kids can get to know our state's salamanders, frogs, snakes, turtles, and lizards with this booklet from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. It includes basic facts, plus simple line drawings to color.
Whose Pawprints Are Those?
Winter Activity Guide
When the snow falls, it's your chance to learn to identify animal tracks! The Champaign County Forest Preserve District's guide is filled with fun activities focused on the nature of Central Illinois.