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

What is a "Nature School"?

Maddie April 2025 Ranger Ramblings

April 2025 – Ranger Ramblings

By Marketing • April 1, 2025
A tinge of green is materializing. At the Mountain Campus, the snow is reserved to isolated patches, tucked in the shade of the Douglas Firs.
Bufflehead

March 22, 2025 AVAS Bird Walk

By Marketing • March 26, 2025
On a beautiful officially spring day and the first AVAS Bird Walk of Spring 2025, 15 participants observed a total of 26 bird species.
Spring 2025 River Campus

Spring 2025 – Nature Journal

By Marketing • March 21, 2025
The days are growing longer, the air feels a little warmer, and the landscape is coming to life with new growth and returning wildlife.
Maddie March 2025 Ranger Ramblings

March 2025 – Ranger Ramblings

By Marketing • March 11, 2025
Recycling and sustainability are important to cover while outdoor experiences are challenging during the cold of winter.
White-crowned Sparrow

February 22, 2025 AVAS Bird Walk

By Marketing • March 4, 2025
On the cold, snowy day with icy trails 9 participants identified 20 total bird species on a walk that was cut short due to the unpleasant conditions.
Noel February 2025 Ranger Ramblings

February 2025 – Ranger Ramblings

By Marketing • February 4, 2025
On the first day of the new year, families and nature enthusiasts embraced the outdoors and took literal steps towards a healthy lifestyle.
Bald Eagle

January 25, 2025 AVAS Bird Walk

By Marketing • January 28, 2025
Nine participants joined us on the cold and icy morning of January 25, 2025, to see 13 bird species including Bald Eagles!
Baby Owl

New Raptor Center Volunteer Meeting

By Marketing • January 17, 2025
The NWDC Raptor Center is welcoming new volunteers, age 14 years and older, into our Raptor Care Team! Please join us at our upcoming new volunteer meeting to learn more.
Ruby-Crowned Kinglet

December 28, 2024 AVAS Bird Walk

By Marketing • January 1, 2025
Thirteen participants joined us on the December 28, 2024, walk on a cold, clear morning and saw 19 bird species.
River Wading Visitors

Starting 2025: Free Parking at the River Campus

By Marketing • January 1, 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, we’re removing the $5 parking fee at our River Campus. Please support our commitment to equitable access for all by donating today!
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