Groups of 12 or more wishing to use park grounds, picnic in a park or rent a park pavilion are required to secure a permit prior to their visit. Designated group picnicking is available at:

Danny Cunniff Park
Larry Fink Memorial Park
Sunset Woods Park
The Preserve of Highland Park

Picnic permits are available April – November 30 (residents may begin applying March 1) and are valid from dawn to dusk.

Application Process:

Applications for park permits and park pavilion rentals can be done in-person at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, 1207 Park Avenue West, or by calling Ann at 847.579.3103 or emailing at [email protected] at least 10 days prior to the picnic date to secure a permit.

12-50 individuals | $50/75
51-99 individuals I $60/100
100+ individuals I $85/140

An additional $50 damage deposit is required. Corporate and not-for-profit fees vary. Parking restrictions/limits, park district programs/events, and type of use are taken into consideration for permit approvals.

Park or Beach Photography Permit Application
Any professional photography taken in our Parks/Beaches requires a photography permit. Application should be submitted 10 days prior to the session. This permit does not give you private access to any area or space open to the public. The daily fee is $75.

Looking for a covered space for your park event? Danny Cunniff Park and Sunset Woods Park feature covered open-air pavilions that are available for rental in addition to your paid park permit.

Danny Cunniff Park | 2700 Trail Way
North Pavilion (up to 50 guests)
The open-air pavilion is near many of the park amenities including disk golf course and fishing pond. The Pavilion is not available weekdays while summer camps are in session.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)

Sunset Woods Park | 1801 Sunset Road
North Pavilion (up to 50 guests)
Offers a covered picnic area, wood deck with arbor, an outdoor grill, and restrooms all in a tranquil setting. The kitchen is not available during Camp season.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)
Fee + Kitchen Use: additional $250/day (dawn to dusk)

Large Pavilion (up to 200 guests)
Located in the central section of Sunset Woods Park and is the largest open-air pavilion in the district. Situated near four playground areas, with four grills and restrooms nearby. Great for a large group.
Fee: additional full: $170/day or half: $90/day (dawn to dusk)

Small Pavilion (up to 100 guests)
Situated near four play areas, skate park, basketball court, two
ball fields, and restrooms.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)