Make the outdoors your new learning environment

Free education programs are offered throughout the year for children with varying interests and ability levels. Most programming takes place outdoors and allows students to experience nature by seeing a variety of plants and animals and exploring fields, forests, ponds and gardens. Metro Parks’ staff can also bring educational programs directly to your classroom or group free of charge.

Programs are designed with student academic achievement and environmental responsibility in mind, and may be adapted for a group’s special needs or interests.

Program Descriptions

Find the best program for your group

Programs help to reinforce Ohio’s science and social studies education standards and may be adapted for a group’s special needs or interests. Ages and date ranges indicated on the Program Topics Listing and Location chart are suggested for optimal learning experiences.

Two boys look beneath a large stone to see if they can find anything interesting hiding underneath. From pre-kindergarten camp, Peek-a-Boo and Pre-K Too at Highbanks.
Photo: Laura Canegali

SCHEDULING A PARK FIELD TRIP

Metro Parks’ programs fill quickly. Please try to make your reservations at least one month in advance by calling the appropriate park. If you need further assistance or would like information about tram programs please call 614-891-0700.

Battelle Darby Creek – 614-878-7106
Blacklick Woods – 614-861-8759
Blendon Woods – 614-895-6221
Clear Creek – 740-969-9001
Glacier Ridge/Homestead – 614-971-5211
Highbanks – 614-846-9962
Inniswood – 614-895-6216
Sharon Woods – 614-865-4507
Three Creeks – 614-409-9914

Photo: Barbara Nye

Photo: Susan Boggs

What information do I need to schedule a program?

When scheduling a visit to your Metro Parks, please be prepared to provide the following information:

  • Several preferred dates already cleared with your administration (including transportation provider).
  • Multiple preferred options for program topics.
  • Multiple preferred options for the park you would like to visit.
  • Number of children and adults attending. We prefer groups with a minimum of 15 participants and can sometimes accommodate larger groups of up to 200 students with advance notice.
  • School or group name and grade level (if applicable).
  • Contact name, phone number, school address and email address.

Programs at your location

Let us bring nature to you

Metro Parks’ staff can bring educational programs directly to your classroom or group free of charge. When you contact us to schedule your program, the education staff will work with you to choose a topic that best meets your needs, and help you choose an appropriate time frame with consideration to subject matter and program location. The best time to schedule visits to your site is November-March. To schedule, contact the park nearest your site.

Family looking at insect collection at Slate Run.
Photo: Andrea Krava

For a complete listing of programs, locations, dates offered and recommended participant age

View our Programs Listings Chart

News & Upcoming Education Programs

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Get Outside, It’s Your Nature!