Online and in-person permit sales for 2017 for Cook County Forest Preserves picnic permits and camping reservations will begin at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
Information about the forest preserves and online registration information is at fpdcc.com/permits.
In-person applicants can start a line at forest preserves headquarters, 536 N. Harlem in River Forest, at 7 a.m. Applicants must have a valid state identification card or driver’s license. Accepted payment methods for permits are cash, check or credit card (Visa or MasterCard).
Permits will also be available for in-person purchase at the Dan Ryan Visitor Center, 8700 S. Western in Chicago, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Friday in January beginning Jan. 6.
Picnic permits are required for groups of 25 or more. It is recommended that applicants have two or three locations in mind, should the first choice already be booked.
For questions or assistance with online permit purchases, contact forest preserves permits staff by calling (800) 870-3666 or visit fpdcc.com.
Camping reservations for the forest preserves five campgrounds will also open Jan. 3. Camp sites are available April 1 through Dec. 31.
Camping reservations can be made online at fpdcc.com/camping/camping-reservations; by phone at (855) YES-CAMP (937-2267); or in person at forest preserves headquarters.