Nature Schools

Kids grow better outside.


At NWDC, we believe in the power of nature to inspire curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning. Whether through self-guided play, school field trips, immersive nature education programs, or seasonal camps and events, we create opportunities for children to connect with the outdoors all year long.


Looking to book a field trip, private program, or attend a community event or summer camp? Click here to explore all of our educational and recreational offerings.


Looking for a way to give your child more time outside during the school week? Explore our two nature-based education programs below.

Earthkeeper Nature School

AGES 4-7

A forest-school-inspired program designed to foster creativity, independence, and a deep connection to nature. At Earthkeeper Nature School (ENS), learning happens outside the classroom, immersed in nature. Our curriculum supports the emotional, social, physical, self-help, and academic development of young learners. We integrate nature awareness, science, music, arts, mathematics, language arts, reading, and hands-on skill-building into a dynamic, experience-based learning environment. Through exploration and discovery, children gain confidence, curiosity, and a lasting love for the natural world—fueling the excitement for learning that is innate in every child.


 "Children can not bounce off the walls if we take away the walls"

- Erin Kenny, founder of Cedarsong Nature School, the first of its kind in the US.


Learn More About ENS

Earth Studies

Earth Studies is a comprehensive, outdoor-based Nature Education program that explores different life zones and ecosystems at our 611-acre Pueblo Mountain Park Campus near Beulah, CO and near the banks of the Arkansas River at our River Campus in Pueblo. Started in 2002 to serve the 5th grade students of Pueblo School District 60, the program currently consists of several full days of experiential education spread over the school year. Lessons are built around natural science themes and cover state and district educational standards in all the major academic fields (science, geography, reading, writing, mathematics, history, health, physical education). 

Learn More About Earth Studies

Outdoor Explorations Program

Grades K - 12, Ages 5 - 17

The Outdoor Explorations Program (OEP) is a hands-on, adventure-based learning experience is designed to engage students in the wonders of the natural world. OEP meets once a week for 34 weeks during the school year.


This dynamic, nature-based enrichment program is ideal for homeschool families and students seeking an alternative, outdoor-centered learning experience. Run in partnership with Alpine International Preparatory Academy, OEP provides students with meaningful, experience-based education beyond the traditional classroom.


OEP meets primarily at our River Campus, but also explores the unique landscapes of both campuses, offering students the chance to experience riverbanks, prairies, and mountain trails. Students engage in up-close learning with our ambassador birds of prey at the Raptor Center, gaining a deeper understanding of wildlife, conservation, and ecology.

Learn More About OEP