Douglas-Hart Nature Center Youth Programs

Douglas-Hart Nature Center Youth Programs take place within Douglas-Hart Nature Center, which consists of 65 acres of native Illinois habitat, including prairie, woodland, and wetland, and includes a visitor center with several amenities. Youth programs are part of the offerings managed by the Douglas-Hart Foundation across Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Friendship Garden, and The Whiteside Garden, which together include trails, gardens, and diverse plant collections open for public use during posted hours.

• Schedule: Visitor Center open Monday–Friday 8am–4pm and Saturday 10am–4pm in winter, with trails and outdoor areas open daily from sunrise to sunset
• Price: Free admission, with donations appreciated for trails and outdoor areas

The Douglas-Hart Foundation manages Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Friendship Garden, and The Whiteside Garden as three unique properties in Coles County, Illinois. Friendship Garden development began in 1963, and The Whiteside Garden was started in 1963 by the late Dr. Wesley Whiteside. Friendship Garden has several hundred species of plants and has recently expanded by an additional acre of garden space, while The Whiteside Garden covers about 5 acres and contains thousands of plant species and different cultivars. The Douglas-Hart Foundation states that its mission is: “Through the responsible stewardship of Helen Douglas-Hart's gifts, the Douglas-Hart Foundation will be a leader inpromoting the appreciation, enjoyment, and conservation of our natural resources by providing quality programs for all ages.” The Douglas-Hart Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and receives no tax support.

Last updated January 10, 2026.