Thorn Creek Woods as a nature preserve of over 1000 acres represents a peoples’ effort led by the Thorn Creek Preservation Association with its beginnings in the 1960’s. From the start, caring people have given their time, funds, efforts and support to preserve these woods as a natural resource that everyone can enjoy, and a place where plants and animals can live in peace.

Thorn Creek Volunteers act as advocates, build trails, create displays, lead groups, clean the nature center, the trails & preserve, collect data, monitor species, patrol boundaries, answer phones, assist with programs, and much, much more.  They make Thorn Creek Woods a living symbol of people living in harmony with nature, enriching their own lives and passing on to their children a priceless heritage.

Through all the seasons of the years, Thorn Creek Woods volunteers continue this tradition of lending time and talents, not only to protect Thorn Creek Woods, but also to make it a resource for all times and all people.

Thorn Creek thrives on Volunteer Power.
Join us today!

Volunteer Opportunities at Thorn Creek Nature Center and Preserve:

Open Hours (click to read)
Office Skills (under construction)
Trailwork (under construction)
Trail Watchers (under construction)
Prairie Sampler and Butterfly Garden (under construction)
Bakers (under construction)
Nature Center Cleaning Tasks (under construction)
Program Assistants (under construction)
Photographs and Writings (under construction)
Friends of Thorn Creek Woods (under construction)
Donations of Things and Funds (under construction)

Thorn Creek depends on YOU!

Learn more about opportunities to become part of our wonderful team of volunteers. Contact our Naturalist April Richards to see how you can help. THORN CREEK NATURE CENTER, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL 60466, 708-747-6320 or thorn_creek@att.net

2024 Volunteer Brochure (click to read)

Volunteer Application Form (click to read)