Nature Education
Three Rivers is home to hundreds of species of animals indigenous to the native woods, prairies and wetlands. If you want to get up close and personal or learn a little more, try visiting one of the nature centers. Learn about the unique characteristics of different wildlife species, conduct your own science experiments or even pet a wild animal.
places to explore Nature education
upcoming events
Homeschool Programs
Ongoing | Multiple Locations
Students can fulfill curriculum needs and personal interests while developing an understanding of science, the natural world, art and more!
All Programs and Events
See all upcoming nature education programs and events.
Nature Centers Closed
Nature centers and program centers are closed to the general public to accommodate summer camp and programming needs. See all of our operational updates.
Through social media, we're bringing the outdoors to you! Tune in to explore nature, meet farm animals, try new art projects and more.
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.
Nature School is an outdoor-based preschool program led by Three Rivers at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park for children ages 4-6. Registration for the 2020-2021 school year is open!
In Three Rivers, having fun doesn't have to cost a thing. From free parking to free activities to free programs and events, find your adventure!
Birding in the Parks
Hundreds of bird species have been spotted in Three Rivers parks. Use this checklist and observation guide to record your sightings!
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 69–71: Prairies
Prairies used to cover 18 million acres of Minnesota. Today, just over 1 percent is left. Listen in as we explore the importance of prairies and how we are working to protect them.
The Three Rivers Blog
Giving Wood Ducks a Home in Three Rivers
By: Steven Hogg
Wood ducks are one of the most spectacular birds in North America. Learn what Three Rivers is doing to provide the space they need to nest and thrive in our parks.
How We're Protecting Purple Martins at Three Rivers
By: Angela Grill
Purple martin numbers are in decline in the Upper Midwest. But with the help of dedicated volunteers, Three Rivers has successfully increased the martin populations in our parks.
This year has presented unique challenges for educators around the world. Learn how one of our environmental educators adapted to teaching in the pandemic and what new strategies she used to benefit her students.
Other things to do
Art Education
Camping
Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and wake up with the sunrise. Camping is the stuff memories are made of and at Three Rivers, you’ll find all the fun of camping without the long car trip. Campgrounds are located at Baker, Carver, and Cleary Lake.
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.
