Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley, Schaumburg

About Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley

Spring Valley is a 135-acre nature preserve in Schaumburg featuring fields, forests, marshes and streams. Visitors explore over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails while birdwatching, sketching, photographing or simply relaxing in the natural surroundings. The earth-sheltered Nature Center contains seasonal natural history exhibits, an observation tower, classrooms and an extensive library. Heritage Farm recreates life in the 1880s when Schaumburg was a rural German farm community; authentically dressed interpreters guide visitors through the working farm and help with seasonal chores and family activities. The Merkle Cabin, nestled among pines near the visitor center, hosts Forest Playschool programs for preschoolers and Yoga in the Cabin series for adults. Spring Valley also maintains four designated conservation areas throughout Schaumburg—Gray Farm Park, Kay Wojcik Conservation Area at Oak Hollow, Tucknott Park and Ruth Macintyre Conservation Area—each accessible by trails and boardwalks with interpretive signs explaining natural features. General admission is free, and the grounds are open daily.