Oak-hickory forests, tall grass prairie, oak savanna and natural wetlands are an oasis for native plants and animals at this 97-acre preserve of the Park District of Highland Park. Heller has been under public stewardship since 1977 where careful resource management, including restoration and controlled burns, provides a taste of an authentic native landscape. Visitors can enjoy a picnic in our woodlands, visit our nature exhibit, participate in a program, or rent cross-country skis and explore our three miles of trails. At Heller, every season is suitable to enjoy the outdoors.