Nature Education
Three Rivers is home to hundreds of species of animals and plants native to Minnesota woods, prairies and wetlands. If you want to get up close and learn more about the habitats and wildlife populations in our parks, try visiting one of the nature centers.
Our staff of naturalists are excited to share their knowledge and help park visitors interact with the natural world around them, from naturalist-led classes and opportunities to meet resident animals up close. During your visit, there are also plenty of engaging self-guided options, including scenic hiking trails and carefully curated seasonal exhibits.
Places to Explore Nature Education
All Programs & Events
See all upcoming nature education programs and events.
Nearly all of our program offerings can be adapted or modified. Please call 763-559-9000 (for relay services dial 711) or email access@ThreeRiversParks.org to request specific services or to discuss options.
Learn About the Outdoors
Our staff of naturalists is dedicated to sharing their knowledge and their love of nature, and to teaching the importance of environmental stewardship to visitors. Educational opportunities abound, from seasonal programs and events to customized group adventures.
Our Natural Resources division is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the health of the habitats and wildlife populations in our parks. Come explore on your own, or take part in one of our naturalist-led classes. It’s a fun, hands-on learning experience for the whole family.
Explore our wide range of nature education summer camps designed to help young naturalists connect with the world around them.
Be sure to check back here for updates on when offerings will be available online so you can start adding nature education camps to your wish list.
Through social media, we're bringing the outdoors to you! Tune in to explore nature, meet farm animals, try new art projects and more.
Nature School is an outdoor-based preschool program led by Three Rivers at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park for children ages 4-6.
Birding in Three Rivers
Hundreds of bird species have been spotted in Three Rivers parks and birding is a popular activity for many visitors.
Learn more about birding or use this checklist and observation guide to record your sightings!
Discover the world of birding in the Young Birders Club! Learn all about native birds, and attend programs and events at nature centers in Three Rivers. Open to ages 9-12.
Help out your favorite nature center by volunteering at summer camp, watching over the resident animals or being part of the Naturalist Youth Leader Program.
We rely on the support of volunteers to maintain the high-quality programs and operations at our nature centers. You can become an important part of this effort.
The Wandering Naturalist
Episodes 261–263: Stories in the Snow
Fallen snow covers the landscape and becomes a blank canvas for new stories to unfold upon. Join Angela and Brandon as they learn about the art of reading animal tracks and signs, how animal signs connect to Lakota knowledge and what researchers have learned about the scavengers of deer guts with the help of Minnesota hunters.
Other Things To Do
Art Education
Silverwood Park and Gale Woods Farm offer nature-inspired art programs for children and adults.
Camping
Experience the joy of camping close to home with Three Rivers as you spend nights at our traditional campsites, group camping areas, a bike-in site, a horse camp or camper cabins, including ADA accessible options.
Educational Farming
At Three Rivers, those who might not have an opportunity to see the ins and outs of a real working farm get a chance to learn where their food comes from, meet some animals and explore farm life at Gale Woods.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a family-friendly, high-tech treasure hunt that combines respect for the environment with a sense of adventure.
History Exploration
Have you ever wondered what life was like for the people who lived here before us? Step back in time and discover their stories through the historic sites of the Grimm Farm, Noerenberg Gardens, the Historic Pierre Bottineau House, and The Landing. Evidence within the parks tells how people have lived, worked and played here for over 12,000 years.
Snowshoeing
Three Rivers offers trails of varying difficulty for snowshoers of all skill levels. It’s a great way for the entire family to take in the scenes of a Minnesota winter.
When open, snowshoe rentals are available online and are encouraged before arriving at the park.
Please note: Snowshoeing is not permitted on cross-country ski trails unless otherwise noted.
