🌿 Looking for ideas to make your yard more beautiful, attract more birds and butterflies, or support local conservation? Join the fun and see what native landscaping actually looks like
Many people support the idea of native plants but have never seen a mature native garden. The Prairie Crossing gardens provide real-world examples of how native plants can be used in residential landscapes that are both beautiful and functional.
🦋 Experience wildlife up close
Native gardens are alive with pollinators, butterflies, dragonflies, and birds. Visitors often discover that native plants create vibrant habitats that support far more wildlife than traditional lawns and ornamental landscaping.
🐦 Learn how to attract birds
Native plants provide the seeds, berries, nectar, and insects that birds depend on throughout the year. Garden walk participants can gather ideas for creating their own bird-friendly spaces at home.
🌱 Get practical gardening inspiration
Whether you have a large yard, a small suburban lot, or even a townhouse garden, you'll see plant combinations, design ideas, and maintenance approaches that can be adapted to many different settings.
🌎 Discover how gardening can support conservation
Native gardens help address habitat loss, support declining pollinator populations, improve water quality, and increase climate resilience. Visitors can learn how small actions in their own yards can contribute to larger conservation efforts.
🏡 Explore one of Illinois' most innovative conservation communities
Prairie Crossing is widely recognized for integrating conservation, agriculture, open space, and community planning. The garden walk provides a unique opportunity to experience this nationally recognized model firsthand. Prairie Crossing
📸 Enjoy a beautiful summer outing
Even if you're not a gardener, the walk offers colorful blooms, scenic landscapes, wildlife viewing opportunities, and plenty of chances for photography and inspiration.
Representatives from Lake County Audubon Society and other conservation partners will be on hand from 1:00-2:00 pm to share information about local birds, our Plants for Birds initiatives, and ways you can get involved in protecting wildlife and habitat right here in Lake County.
This free event is open to all. We hope to see you there! 🐦🦋🌻
10:00AM *Opening Remarks - Station Village gazebo
10:15-1:00PM Visit the gardens in any order:
568 BLUESTEM LN
1459 WILD IRIS LN.
1128 HEDGEROW DR.
812 BLAZING STAR RD.
896 BLAZING STAR RD.
872 BLAZING STAR RD.
1423 TURKS CAP RD.
1:00 - 2:00PM Native Garden Party - Station Village gazebo