Fishing Clinics
In this catch-and-release fishing program, participants learn the basics of fishing, how to properly cast a rod and bait a hook, while also learning about the science of water quality and the aquatic species that live within the Lake Michigan and Calumet River habitats.
Participants also learn the importance of aquatic wildlife in local ecosystems and how to keep waterways healthy for fish and for people.
Paddle Clinics
Our paddle clinics change our local waterways into a place of recreation, learning, community-building, and fun. Participants learn kayaking & canoeing basics and safety while learning about the science, history, geography, and culture of our regional lakes and rivers.
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Our waterway experiences engage youth to cultivate a stewardship ethic while learning how to keep waterways healthy for a thriving ecosystem of plants, fish, and other aquatic wildlife.
Archery Clinics
Our family-friendly archery clinics teach basic archery skills, safety, and technique -- encouraging local participation in the outdoor sport of archery. Participants also learn about protecting and stewarding our natural resources and greenspaces -- a fun and exciting screen-free way to learn and grow in nature!
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Horseback Riding
Our equine program provides a range of experiences from riding and caring for a horse, to learning empathy, leadership, and compassion in the stable or on the trails. From beginners to experienced riders, our trail-riding program is open to youth ages 7 years to adults of any age.
Evening Campout
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Our family-friendly, evening campout experience in the Indiana Dunes National Park features an evening hike through Miller Woods to our campsite where participants learn basic camping fundamentals including pitching a tent and building a campfire. Then we enjoy gooey s'mores and roasted hot dogs while singing classic camp tunes under the evening sky.
Participants also learn about the science of protecting the globally rare oak savanna ecosystem of Miller Woods including its forests, wetlands, and wildlife.
Hiking & Birding
Hiking provides so many health benefits including cardiovascular health – and it helps build muscle mass for balance and mobility. Hiking in the sunshine provides the body with vitamin D and offers psychological benefits, often contributing to a feeling of relaxation and enhanced well-being.
Whether you’re hiking in the dunes on the East side of Gary, or at Ivanhoe Prairie on the West side, there’s so many different species of plants and wildlife living within these globally rare and unique ecosystems of black oak savanna and dune & swale. Grab a pair of loaner binoculars and a hiking pack, and join us to learn about the local bird species as we hike along the trails of Northwest Indiana.
Eco-Workshops
Looking for a fun and educational way to spend time in nature? Our ecology workshops cover a wide range of environmental education programs that are a fun and engaging way for people of all ages to spend time learning about the plants, insects, fish, and other wildlife that inhabit our local ecosystems.
Create upcycled art from recyclable materials like a bird feeder or rain gauge. Create nature art like a twig picture frame, or a walking stick. Build a bird or bat house while learning about the many species of birds that inhabit our regional ecosystems. It's a great screen-free way to learn and grow in nature!
Health & Mental Wellness
Our nature mindfulness sessions include sound and breathing meditations, yoga, and other practical tools to help participants reduce stress, become more mindful in everyday life, and stay grounded in the present moment. These sessions also help cultivate a deeper connection to nature through breathing and movement that can help promote physical well-being and emotional balance. Join us in exploring the healing properties of nature and become inspired to have a greater love and respect for its transformative power.
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