The Lost Valley Visitor Center opened to the public in August 2010. This 28,450 square foot facility will host a number of environmental education programs, workshops, camps and special events. An exhibit room, drop-in library and research library (available by appointment) is open daily. The facility is also a regional center for the study of natural resources, housing under one roof the District's Natural Resource Management Department and Environmental Education Staff; the Research Field Station; the District's ecological data bases, resource library and map room; Restoration Internship Program and the Ecological Restoration Certificate Program. In addition, the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission and the McHenry County Conservation Foundation have offices in the building.Â
Located in the geographic center of the park near the existing trail system, the Lost Valley Visitor Center is perched on the glacial moraine overlooking the Nippersink Creek valley. The visitor center will serve as a central focal point and gateway for a day's adventure where the natural history of the park and information about the area will be shared with visitors and connect them with the District's mission.
