General Information

Mission Statement

The Wildwood Park District serves our community by providing enriching and affordable recreational programs, events, and facilities that promote community building, and health and wellness. The Wildwood Park District also protects our natural resources, parks, and lakes through conservation and preservation initiatives. The safety of our residents, visitors, employees, parks, and facilities is our top priority, and the Wildwood Park District minimizes risks through our Park Safety Staff, comprehensive safety efforts, and partnerships with local law enforcement agencies.

Vision Statement

The Wildwood Park District is committed to continuous improvement and aspires to exceed the needs of our community through a collaborative, innovative, and sustainable approach. We strive to maintain and preserve the beauty and functionality of our parks, lakes and shorelines, amenities, and facilities for current and future generations to enjoy.

Core Values

Family-Centric: Our top priority is to welcome children and families into our parks, programs, and events and provide a fun, safe, and family-friendly environment for all to enjoy.

Equal Opportunity: Our goal is to provide excellent recreation opportunities for the entire community. We ensure that every individual is treated fairly and has the opportunity to participate in Wildwood Park District offerings regardless of individual disability or hardship. Therefore, we provide limited and budgeted financial assistance through our Scholarship Program to Wildwood Residents who are interested in participating in select recreation programs but are unable to do so due to financial difficulties. We comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in our program structures along with our current and future park and greenspace planning. We partner with Warren Special Recreation Association (WSRA) to help provide ALL individuals the resources to participate in Park District programming to their full abilities.

Sustainability: We use our capital to renew and maintain infrastructure of current facilities and park equipment, and for the conservation and preservation of our natural resources, parks, and lakes. The Wildwood Park District utilizes our in-house maintenance team for most on-going improvements and upkeep of parks and facilities but will outsource and/or collaborate with district affiliates and outside organizations when needed.

Communication: We are committed to staying connected with our community. We do this through raising public awareness of Park District programs, events, and initiatives. Additionally, we prioritize internal communication best practices to ensure effective information sharing and collaboration between Park District employees and their departments.

Transparency: Transparency with our community is something the Wildwood Park District is passionate about. We comply with mandated transparency laws and ensure Park District matters, information, and initiatives are well communicated and readily available, with an emphasis on accountability, openness, ethics, and fiscal responsibility.

Park Safety

If while enjoying the parks you notice any suspicious behavior, please call the Lake County Sheriff at 847.549.5200.  Please also notify Park District Park Safety staff at 847.309.1478  (call or text) or parksecurity@wildwoodparkdistrict.com.

Minimum & Maximum

In order to secure supplies, all programs require a minimum number of participants to have registered seven days before the class begins. A maximum number is also listed to ensure quality instruction. Wildwood Park District reserves the right to adjust the min/max numbers on programs/events when deemed necessary. Classes may be combined and times modified to facilitate better programs.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Wildwood Park District welcomes the participation of all individuals in our programs, including those with disabilities. We are fully committed to complying with the ADA and providing reasonable accommodations to facilitate participation in our programs. If you have questions or concerns, call 847.223.7275, or e-mail info@wildwoodparkdistrict.com.

Photo Policy

Participants in Wildwood Park District programs and special events consent to the taking of photos and videos of themselves and their children for use in all Park District marketing materials. All photos and videos taken on Park District property are for Park District use only and become its sole property.

Refund Policy

General program fee refunds, less a service charge of 20% (not to exceed $10), will be made if a request is received at least seven days before the start of the program. After that time, refunds can only be given for medical reasons. Note: Refunds cannot be given for programs or trips that require advance admission or entrance fees. If Wildwood Park District needs to reschedule or cancel programs due to insufficient registration, full refunds will be provided.

Scholarship Program

Our goal is to provide excellent recreation opportunities for the entire community. Therefore, we provide financial assistance to residents who are interested in participating in a program, but are unable to due to financial difficulties. Please submit your completed application to info@wildwoodparkdistrict.com or drop off at our office (front desk during regular business hours, or mail slot after hours).

*Please note: the new Scholarship Program and Scholarship Program Policy below will begin on May 1, 2024, with the start of the new fiscal year as 2023 scholarship funds have already been awarded in full.

Download Scholarship Program Policy and Guidelines

Download Scholarship Application

Monthly Newsletters

Stay up-to-date on all things Wildwood with our once-a-month e-newsletter! Our e-newsletters include information on upcoming special events and programs, latest news and announcements, Wildwood improvements, and current Administrative, Recreation, Maintenance, Marketing, and Park Safety projects and planning. Subscribe to our e-newsletter here.

Behavior Code of Conduct

The following behavior code of conduct will be used as a guideline for Wildwood Park District program participants.

Participants will:

• Show respect to all other participants, staff, and volunteers.
• Follow direction from staff and volunteers.
• Show respect to equipment, supplies, and facilities.
• Not use inappropriate, abusive, or foul language.
• Not show any aggressive behavior (hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, biting, etc.)
• Not show continuous disruptive behavior.
• Obey all Wildwood Park District rules and regulations for specific programs.

Employment Opportunities

Please visit our Employment Opportunities page to learn about and/or apply for open positions.