This primarily outdoor program includes hiking, paddlesports and other physical activities. Each day features a unique focus with activities such as field trips to various forest preserves, stewardship projects like seed collection and invasive species removal, citizen science and data collection, conservation efforts, kayaking and presentations by guest speakers and Forest Preserve experts.

ConEx is open to students ages 14-16 entering grades 9 or 10 in the fall. Students of all backgrounds and from all areas are welcome. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Schedule:

• Week 1: July 13-17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Independence Grove
• Week 2: July 20-23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Independence Grove
• Overnight Campout: July 24-25, 3 p.m. to 10 a.m., Van Patten Woods

The full two-week program, including the overnight campout, is $400 for Lake County residents and $560 for nonresidents. Cost includes all programming, transportation between sites and campout food and supplies. Need-based scholarships are available.