The Portage Park Nature Play Space is a volunteer-led initiative to build a new nature play space in our park. Friends of Portage Park (Portage Park Advisory Council-PAC) is committed to fostering a deep and meaningful connection between families and the natural world. Inspired by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to explore, create, and play in nature, we are working with Chicago Park District to create a nature play space in Portage Park.

We want to create a dynamic environment where children can engage in unstructured, imaginative play in the outdoors. By offering a space filled with natural elements such as tree cookies, mud kitchens, and climbing features, we aim to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a sense of wonder in young minds.

Through collaborative efforts with community volunteers, educators and local organizations, we seek to not only create a physical space, but also facilitate educational programs and activities that promote environmental stewardship, art and nature appreciation. Our goal is to ensure the Portage Park Nature Play Space is welcoming to all families in the neighborhood and materials, programs and engagement are offered to a variety of ages and diversity of cultures.

Learn more about our efforts on our website here or check out this slideshow.

Small donations of $5-$10 are the perfect amount, but $20-$50 will help us ensure we reach our goal by March 31, 2025.