Park Shelter rentals are available at several parks, and a reservable permit is made through Customer Services 815-987-8800 at the Downtown office. Shelters are available at Aldeen, Alpine, Black Hawk, Dahlquist, Fair Grounds, Levings, Page, Park-er-Woods, Searls, and Sinnissippi parks. Martin Park has an indoor shelter, and Aldeen Park has a small lodge available to rent. Picnic Kits are available to assure a fun time for your guests. Kits include two bats and balls, volleyball and net, soccer ball, football, a Frisbee, and a playground ball. Horseshoes are available for an additional charge. These are available through Customer Services at the Downtown Office.

Any group or organization wishing to use a park for purposes other than a picnic must apply for a Special Use Permit. The Park District will assist in providing (on a fee and availability basis) this equipment: showmobiles, bleachers, picnic tables. For more information, please call 815-987-8847.

Park Rules:

• Carry-in alcoholic beverages are prohibited in parks and facilities.
• No parking in posted areas.
• Firearms and weapons are not permitted in parks.
• Please report any vandalism you see to Park Police at 815-987-8874. If vandalism is in progress, please call 815-966-2900 and ask for the Park Police to be dispatched.

"Go" Before You Go Port-O-Lets and restrooms are provided at large parks, programmed areas, shelters, and wherever people are expected to gather for longer than a two-hour time period. Smaller neighborhood parks will not have facilities to use, so plan ahead and "go" before your visit.

Dogs in Parks Dogs are welcome in the parks and on the recreation paths, but you are responsible to clean up after them. Look for "Mutt Mitts" dispensers at rec paths for your convenience. Remember dogs must be leashed at all times, in a heeled position (walking beside you). For an off-leash experience, try Canine Corners Dog Parks (inside Searls Park and Elliot Park). Permits are required to use the dog parks.

To protect the health and safety of all, smoking is not permitted in Park District buildings and recreational facilities.

Park Hours:
Neighborhood parks are open from dawn to dusk. The large community parks are open from 8:00 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. daily. Special use facilities have posted business hours.