2023 Summer Youth & Family Classes
Classes in order by age group. Registration for all summer programs opens April 3rd at 9am! Classes fill quickly.
Fees are nonrefundable. Please let us know if you will be unable to attend as we often have waiting lists. Scholarships are available!
If you are a current member of the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, you get $5.00 off each summer class! When you register, please enter the coupon code that you received in the mail. If you need to renew your membership or become a member of the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, click here!
Fees are nonrefundable. Please let us know if you will be unable to attend as we often have waiting lists. Scholarships are available!
If you are a current member of the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, you get $5.00 off each summer class! When you register, please enter the coupon code that you received in the mail. If you need to renew your membership or become a member of the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center, click here!
Summer Adventure Scholarships - more info here
Full scholarships are available for all Nature Center classes under $60.00. Half scholarships are available for classes $60.00 and above. To receive a scholarship, students must write a few sentences about why they want to attend a specific summer adventure class and thank the scholarship donors.
Please submit your request and paragraph at the Interpretive Center before you register for the class. Include name (parent and child), address, phone number, email address, and age/birthdate (child). We will place your child in the class at the adjusted price. When registration opens on April 3rd, you will log in to your account to pay the balance. Scholarships are offered on a first-come, first-served basis (one scholarship per child). For more information, call 507-437-7519 or email info@hormelnaturecenter.org
Scholarships cannot be applied to online registrations, so please bring your child's scholarship essay with you to register in person at the Interpretive Center.
2022 Scholarship Donors: Austin Audubon; Friends of the Hormel Nature Center; Mable Hjelmen; Julie and Duane Champlin: In honor of George Hartson, Memorials-Genevieve Thompson and Richard “Gundy” Gunderson
Thank you, donors!
Please submit your request and paragraph at the Interpretive Center before you register for the class. Include name (parent and child), address, phone number, email address, and age/birthdate (child). We will place your child in the class at the adjusted price. When registration opens on April 3rd, you will log in to your account to pay the balance. Scholarships are offered on a first-come, first-served basis (one scholarship per child). For more information, call 507-437-7519 or email info@hormelnaturecenter.org
Scholarships cannot be applied to online registrations, so please bring your child's scholarship essay with you to register in person at the Interpretive Center.
2022 Scholarship Donors: Austin Audubon; Friends of the Hormel Nature Center; Mable Hjelmen; Julie and Duane Champlin: In honor of George Hartson, Memorials-Genevieve Thompson and Richard “Gundy” Gunderson
Thank you, donors!
We may occasionally photograph participants during Nature Center events and use those photographs for City of Austin publications. If you would prefer that your child not be photographed, you may request this in writing.
Birth-2 years
Beautiful Bugs with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages Birth-2 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 10:00-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Time for buggy fun as we learn about interesting insects through interactive songs, projects and outdoor exploration.
Ages Birth-2 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 10:00-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Time for buggy fun as we learn about interesting insects through interactive songs, projects and outdoor exploration.
Birth-3 years
Earth Day: Tree-mendous Trees and Amazing Animals Near and Far with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages Birth-3 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, April 22; 10:00-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Listen to stories in the treehouse about trees and their inhabitants while making a project. Hike in the forest and use your senses to explore.
Ages Birth-3 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, April 22; 10:00-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Listen to stories in the treehouse about trees and their inhabitants while making a project. Hike in the forest and use your senses to explore.
2-3 years
Streams to Seas with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages 2-3 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, May 22 & 23; 3:30-4:30 p.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Take a hike to discover interesting plants and animals in our local waterways on day one. Day two learn about sea creatures, play in the water tables, and make an ocean project.
Ages 2-3 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, May 22 & 23; 3:30-4:30 p.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Take a hike to discover interesting plants and animals in our local waterways on day one. Day two learn about sea creatures, play in the water tables, and make an ocean project.
Bear Hunt Adventure with Adrianna Meiergerd [Register]
Ages 2-3 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 10:00-11:15 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
We all know what bears do when the weather turns cool and the snow starts to fall, but what do they do in the summertime? Bring your favorite teddy bear, and let’s go on a bear hunt adventure and learn together! This includes a picnic with your teddy bear.
Ages 2-3 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 10:00-11:15 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
We all know what bears do when the weather turns cool and the snow starts to fall, but what do they do in the summertime? Bring your favorite teddy bear, and let’s go on a bear hunt adventure and learn together! This includes a picnic with your teddy bear.
3-4 years
Nature Art with Adrianna Meiergerd [Register]
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 24; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Who wants to bring the Nature Center home with them? I know I do! We’ll use plants and different items from the Nature Center to create works of art. Painting and sun prints are just the beginning! You’ll be bringing masterpieces home to remind you of the Nature Center!
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 24; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Who wants to bring the Nature Center home with them? I know I do! We’ll use plants and different items from the Nature Center to create works of art. Painting and sun prints are just the beginning! You’ll be bringing masterpieces home to remind you of the Nature Center!
Gardening and Garden Yoga with Meredith Maloney [Register]
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, July 7; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Join the Nature Center in our gardens to discover what gardens are and why they are so important. Learners will have the chance to see what we grow in our Nature Center gardens, harvest vegetables, and discover how to keep a garden healthy. Learners will practice Garden Yoga, a gentle exercise to celebrate all that gardens have to offer.
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, July 7; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Join the Nature Center in our gardens to discover what gardens are and why they are so important. Learners will have the chance to see what we grow in our Nature Center gardens, harvest vegetables, and discover how to keep a garden healthy. Learners will practice Garden Yoga, a gentle exercise to celebrate all that gardens have to offer.
Incredible Insects [Register]
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 18; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
What makes an insect an insect? The more you know about how insects interact with the world around them, the less scary they become! We will learn about honey bees and monarch butterflies and why they are so important. The class will explore what a pollinator does and why our food is so dependent on these teeny tiny, amazing insects!
Ages 3-4 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 18; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
What makes an insect an insect? The more you know about how insects interact with the world around them, the less scary they become! We will learn about honey bees and monarch butterflies and why they are so important. The class will explore what a pollinator does and why our food is so dependent on these teeny tiny, amazing insects!
3-5 years
Beautiful Bugs with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages 3-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 6:00-7:00 p.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Time for buggy fun with spiders versus insects. Scoop the pond and hike to discover cool creatures.
Ages 3-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 6:00-7:00 p.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
Time for buggy fun with spiders versus insects. Scoop the pond and hike to discover cool creatures.
4-5 years
Little Explorers: Hand in Hand in Nature with David Stokes [Register]
Ages 4-5 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday June 19, 20, & 21; 9:30-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
David Stokes is a father, educator, naturalist, entertainer, and Nature Center favorite! This class is especially designed for a parent/grandparent to spend one-on-one “quality time” in nature with their 4 or 5 year-old child. Please dress for the weather and bring a camera!
Ages 4-5 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday June 19, 20, & 21; 9:30-11:00 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
David Stokes is a father, educator, naturalist, entertainer, and Nature Center favorite! This class is especially designed for a parent/grandparent to spend one-on-one “quality time” in nature with their 4 or 5 year-old child. Please dress for the weather and bring a camera!
Sssspectacular Snakes with Akiko Nakagawa [Register]
Ages 4-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 6; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
A little spooked by snakes? Fear not! Learn all about these wonderful creatures and why they are important for the ecosystem. Explore the native snakes of Minnesota and discover how they live their lives without arms or legs.
Ages 4-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 6; 9:00-10:30 a.m. • Class requires an accompanying adult
A little spooked by snakes? Fear not! Learn all about these wonderful creatures and why they are important for the ecosystem. Explore the native snakes of Minnesota and discover how they live their lives without arms or legs.
Wonderful World of Birds with Meredith Maloney [Register]
Ages 4-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday & Wednesday, July 25 & 26; 9:00-10:30 a.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Students investigate what makes birds different from other animals, and why they are so special. Students will learn how to use both their sight and hearing to identify common birds found in Nature Center woods, and how to use tools like binoculars and identification guides to do so. Students will leave this course as competent and curious birders.
Ages 4-5 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday & Wednesday, July 25 & 26; 9:00-10:30 a.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Students investigate what makes birds different from other animals, and why they are so special. Students will learn how to use both their sight and hearing to identify common birds found in Nature Center woods, and how to use tools like binoculars and identification guides to do so. Students will leave this course as competent and curious birders.
4-6 years
Streams to Seas with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages 4-6 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, May 22 & 23; 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Take a hike to discover interesting plants and animals in our local waterways on day one. Day two we’ll learn about sea creatures and play in the water tables and make an ocean project. Then explore bioluminescence through stories and art.
Ages 4-6 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, May 22 & 23; 6:00-7:00 p.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Take a hike to discover interesting plants and animals in our local waterways on day one. Day two we’ll learn about sea creatures and play in the water tables and make an ocean project. Then explore bioluminescence through stories and art.
Celebrate Earth! with Julie Hecimovich [Register]
Ages 4-7 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, April 22; 1:00-2:00 p.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Compare local forest creatures to those of a Rainforest and build an umbrella tree. Listen to stories about incredible biodiversity in National Parks and around the world. Hike to explore a local Minnesota forest and play games.
Ages 4-7 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, April 22; 1:00-2:00 p.m.
• Class requires an accompanying adult
Compare local forest creatures to those of a Rainforest and build an umbrella tree. Listen to stories about incredible biodiversity in National Parks and around the world. Hike to explore a local Minnesota forest and play games.
6-7 years
Nature Detectives with David Stokes [Register]
Ages 6-7 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday, June 19, 20, & 21; 1:30-3:00 p.m.
As an educator and entertainer, David will keep you laughing and learning about nature. This class is specially designed for 6 or 7 year-old children to spend “quality time” in nature, with the option of bringing a parent/grandparent. Please dress for the weather. Registered participants only. Parents are welcome, but not required.
Ages 6-7 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday, June 19, 20, & 21; 1:30-3:00 p.m.
As an educator and entertainer, David will keep you laughing and learning about nature. This class is specially designed for 6 or 7 year-old children to spend “quality time” in nature, with the option of bringing a parent/grandparent. Please dress for the weather. Registered participants only. Parents are welcome, but not required.
Junior Rangers: Sensational Superpowers of the Animal Kingdom with Akiko Nakagawa
Ages 6-7 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday & Wednesday, June 13 & 14; 9:30-11:30 a.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday & Wednesday, June 13 & 14; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(select one of the 2 sessions)
Have you ever wanted to have a superpower? I know I have! Learn all about the amazing animals who have gained abilities that we think of as superpowers! Learn about the power of flight, the ability to regrow limbs, super-senses, and more!
Ages 6-7 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday & Wednesday, June 13 & 14; 9:30-11:30 a.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday & Wednesday, June 13 & 14; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(select one of the 2 sessions)
Have you ever wanted to have a superpower? I know I have! Learn all about the amazing animals who have gained abilities that we think of as superpowers! Learn about the power of flight, the ability to regrow limbs, super-senses, and more!
Can You Blend In? [Register]
Ages 6-7 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Learn all about the many creatures of the Hormel Nature Center and how they've adapted to blend in with their environment. Our outdoor explorers will use the resources provided to them in order to dress up and try to blend in with our environments.
Ages 6-7 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Friday, August 4; 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Learn all about the many creatures of the Hormel Nature Center and how they've adapted to blend in with their environment. Our outdoor explorers will use the resources provided to them in order to dress up and try to blend in with our environments.
7-8 years
Monarch Magic
Ages 7-8 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday, July 25; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday, August 1; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
Delve into the amazing life of the Monarch butterfly and search for Monarch eggs and caterpillars around the Nature Center to take home and raise yourself!
Ages 7-8 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday, July 25; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday, August 1; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
Delve into the amazing life of the Monarch butterfly and search for Monarch eggs and caterpillars around the Nature Center to take home and raise yourself!
8-9 Years
Discovering Decomposers with Adrianna Meiergerd
Ages 8-9 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday & Wednesday, August 1 & 2; 9:30-11:30 a.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday & Wednesday, August 1 & 2; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
What lives in the dirt? What makes gardens grow? Decomposers of course! Come learn all about different critters laying just below the surface at the Nature Center. Fungi and earthworms are just the start! Bring some mud boots, because things are about to get messy!
Ages 8-9 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Tuesday & Wednesday, August 1 & 2; 9:30-11:30 a.m. [Register]
Session 2: Tuesday & Wednesday, August 1 & 2; 1:30-3:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
What lives in the dirt? What makes gardens grow? Decomposers of course! Come learn all about different critters laying just below the surface at the Nature Center. Fungi and earthworms are just the start! Bring some mud boots, because things are about to get messy!
8-10 Years
Intro to Fishing with Luke Reese [Register]
Ages 8-10 yrs • $25.00 ($20.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 13; 9:00- 10:30 a.m. &
Wednesday, June 14; 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Learn about the basics of fishing: how to string a pole, tie lures on, and casting on Tuesday. On Wednesday you will get a chance to put your skills to the test on East Side Lake. Fishing poles are provided or you can use your own. All fish caught will be catch and release.
Ages 8-10 yrs • $25.00 ($20.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 13; 9:00- 10:30 a.m. &
Wednesday, June 14; 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Learn about the basics of fishing: how to string a pole, tie lures on, and casting on Tuesday. On Wednesday you will get a chance to put your skills to the test on East Side Lake. Fishing poles are provided or you can use your own. All fish caught will be catch and release.
Astronomy [Register]
Ages 8-10 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, July 11; 8:30- 10:30 p.m.
Become a space explorer at the Sola Fide Observatory. Get a chance to spend time with the stars, read a night sky map, identify constellations, and use our big telescope to see objects in deep space that our naked eyes can’t see!
Ages 8-10 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, July 11; 8:30- 10:30 p.m.
Become a space explorer at the Sola Fide Observatory. Get a chance to spend time with the stars, read a night sky map, identify constellations, and use our big telescope to see objects in deep space that our naked eyes can’t see!
Nocturnal Nature
Ages 8-10 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Thursday, June 15; 8:30-10:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Thursday, July 20; 8:30-10:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
Delve into what nature does while we sleep. This class offers a variety of fun activities that let us discover the magic of nature at night. Learn which animals are out and about, go on a night hike, and more. Come explore the hustle and bustle of the Nature Center after dark!
Ages 8-10 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Thursday, June 15; 8:30-10:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Thursday, July 20; 8:30-10:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the two sessions)
Delve into what nature does while we sleep. This class offers a variety of fun activities that let us discover the magic of nature at night. Learn which animals are out and about, go on a night hike, and more. Come explore the hustle and bustle of the Nature Center after dark!
9-11 Years
Nature Photography with Morgan Converse [Register]
Ages 9-11 yrs • $30.00 ($25.00 for Friends members) Tuesday & Wednesday, July 12 & 13; 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Interested in photography, nature, and exploring? This class is for you! Join local photographer Morgan Converse and gain vital knowledge on composition, lighting, angles, and more as we visit some of the more remote areas of the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own. |
Guest Photographer Morgan Converse
|
Radical Raptors [Register]
Ages 9-11 yrs • $55.00 ($50.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 17; 9:30-11:00 a.m. - Hawk talk & games
Monday, July 17; 8:30-10:00 p.m. - Owl Prowl for participants and family
Tuesday, July 18; 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. - Day Trip to the National Eagle Center (bring lunch)
Discover the raptors of Minnesota here at the Nature Center and at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha! We will also be going on a hike in Wabasha, so wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
Ages 9-11 yrs • $55.00 ($50.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 17; 9:30-11:00 a.m. - Hawk talk & games
Monday, July 17; 8:30-10:00 p.m. - Owl Prowl for participants and family
Tuesday, July 18; 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. - Day Trip to the National Eagle Center (bring lunch)
Discover the raptors of Minnesota here at the Nature Center and at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha! We will also be going on a hike in Wabasha, so wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
Inside the Honeybee Hive with Erin Rupp [Register]
Ages 9-11 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 1:00- 3:00 p.m.
Erin Rupp from Pollinate Minnesota will be going inside our Nature Center hives with you right by her side suited up in bee suits. Learn about the fascinating ins and outs of everyday honeybee life.
Ages 9-11 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 1:00- 3:00 p.m.
Erin Rupp from Pollinate Minnesota will be going inside our Nature Center hives with you right by her side suited up in bee suits. Learn about the fascinating ins and outs of everyday honeybee life.
Survival Week with Derek Barkeim
Ages 9-11 yrs • $85.00 ($75.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Monday through Friday, June 26- 30; 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Monday through Friday, July 10-14; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. [Register]
Session 3: Monday through Friday, July 10-14; 1:30-4:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the three sessions)
Spend five days learning wilderness survival and awareness skills to equip you for your next outdoor adventure! Practice building shelters, using primitive traps, creating friction fires, identifying wild edibles and medicinal plants, and lots more with guest instructor Derek Barkeim. On Friday, get lost in the woods with Nature Center naturalists while you learn orienteering by mastering how to use a compass and completing a compass course.
Ages 9-11 yrs • $85.00 ($75.00 for Friends members)
Session 1: Monday through Friday, June 26- 30; 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. [Register]
Session 2: Monday through Friday, July 10-14; 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. [Register]
Session 3: Monday through Friday, July 10-14; 1:30-4:30 p.m. [Register]
(Select one of the three sessions)
Spend five days learning wilderness survival and awareness skills to equip you for your next outdoor adventure! Practice building shelters, using primitive traps, creating friction fires, identifying wild edibles and medicinal plants, and lots more with guest instructor Derek Barkeim. On Friday, get lost in the woods with Nature Center naturalists while you learn orienteering by mastering how to use a compass and completing a compass course.
10-11 years
Cedar River Canoe Trip [Register]
Ages 10-11 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Friday, July 21; 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Explore the beautiful Cedar River and parts of Mower County you may have never seen before, with a naturalist guided canoe trip. You do not need to know how to canoe to go on this trip!
Ages 10-11 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Friday, July 21; 9:00-11:30 a.m.
Explore the beautiful Cedar River and parts of Mower County you may have never seen before, with a naturalist guided canoe trip. You do not need to know how to canoe to go on this trip!
10-12 years
Monarch Tagging [Register]
Ages 10-12 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, August 22; 1:30-3:30 p.m.
In conjunction with research being done through the Monarch Watch organization, students will learn to catch, tag, record, and release monarchs before they start their 2,000-mile migration to Mexico. Many monarchs tagged at the Nature Center over the years have been recovered in Mexico!
Ages 10-12 yrs • $15.00 ($10.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, August 22; 1:30-3:30 p.m.
In conjunction with research being done through the Monarch Watch organization, students will learn to catch, tag, record, and release monarchs before they start their 2,000-mile migration to Mexico. Many monarchs tagged at the Nature Center over the years have been recovered in Mexico!
11-12 years
Canoeing the Root River & Exploring the Blufflands [Register]
Ages 11-12 yrs • $120.00 ($110.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 26; 9:00-10:30 a.m. - Canoe practice at the Nature Center
Thursday, July 27; 8:00 a.m. - Depart the Nature Center to explore Mystery Cave and Forestville State Park; then travel to Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center for group challenges, a high ropes course, dinner, and a hike. Please bring a lunch on July 27.
Friday, July 29; 3:00 p.m. - Breakfast at Eagle Bluff before canoeing part of the Root River; return to the JCHNC by 3:00 p.m.
Fee includes lodging, admission, canoe equipment, high ropes course, and three meals (dinner July 27, breakfast and lunch July 28). There are full scholarships available for this class.
Ages 11-12 yrs • $120.00 ($110.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 26; 9:00-10:30 a.m. - Canoe practice at the Nature Center
Thursday, July 27; 8:00 a.m. - Depart the Nature Center to explore Mystery Cave and Forestville State Park; then travel to Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center for group challenges, a high ropes course, dinner, and a hike. Please bring a lunch on July 27.
Friday, July 29; 3:00 p.m. - Breakfast at Eagle Bluff before canoeing part of the Root River; return to the JCHNC by 3:00 p.m.
Fee includes lodging, admission, canoe equipment, high ropes course, and three meals (dinner July 27, breakfast and lunch July 28). There are full scholarships available for this class.
Astronomy [Register]
Ages 11-12 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 20; 8:30-10:30 p.m.
Become a space explorer at the Sola Fide Observatory. Get a chance to spend time with the stars, read a night sky map, identify constellations, and use our big telescope to see objects in deep space that our naked eyes can’t see!
Ages 11-12 yrs • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Tuesday, June 20; 8:30-10:30 p.m.
Become a space explorer at the Sola Fide Observatory. Get a chance to spend time with the stars, read a night sky map, identify constellations, and use our big telescope to see objects in deep space that our naked eyes can’t see!
Intro to Trout Fishing with Luke Reese [Register]
Ages 11-12 yrs • $25.00 ($20.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 24; 9:00- 10:30 a.m. &
Tuesday, July 25; 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Did you know that the Minnesota DNR stock Wolf Creek in Todd Park with rainbow trout? Nature Center staff will teach you the basics of trout fishing; learning how to cast in a smaller area and learning how to use lures instead of bait. Fishing poles are provided or you can use your own. All fish caught will be catch and release.
Ages 11-12 yrs • $25.00 ($20.00 for Friends members)
Monday, July 24; 9:00- 10:30 a.m. &
Tuesday, July 25; 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Did you know that the Minnesota DNR stock Wolf Creek in Todd Park with rainbow trout? Nature Center staff will teach you the basics of trout fishing; learning how to cast in a smaller area and learning how to use lures instead of bait. Fishing poles are provided or you can use your own. All fish caught will be catch and release.
12-14 years
Nature Photography with Morgan Converse [Register]
Ages 12-14 yrs • $30.00 ($25.00 for Friends members) Tuesday & Wednesday, June 20 & 21; 5:30-8:00 p.m. Interested in photography, nature, and exploring? This class is for you! Join local photographer Morgan Converse and gain vital knowledge on composition, lighting, angles, and more as we visit remote areas of the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own. |
Guest photographer Morgan Converse
|
Shell Rock River Canoe & Fossil Hunting Trip [Register]
Ages 12-14 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, August 15; 9:00-10:30 a.m. : Canoe practice at the Nature Center
Tuesday, August 16; 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. : Canoe trip -Bring Lunch
Enjoy canoeing the Shell Rock River, then visit the Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve to hunt for fossils (to keep)! Weather and water levels may change the river destination and activities for this trip. Please bring a lunch on August 16.
Ages 12-14 yrs • $40.00 ($35.00 for Friends members)
Monday, August 15; 9:00-10:30 a.m. : Canoe practice at the Nature Center
Tuesday, August 16; 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. : Canoe trip -Bring Lunch
Enjoy canoeing the Shell Rock River, then visit the Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve to hunt for fossils (to keep)! Weather and water levels may change the river destination and activities for this trip. Please bring a lunch on August 16.
Survival Week with Derek Barkeim [Register]
Ages 12-14 yrs • $85.00 ($75.00 for Friends members)
Monday through Friday, June 26- 30; 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.
Spend five days learning wilderness survival and awareness skills to equip you for your next outdoor adventure! Practice building shelters, using primitive traps, creating friction fires, identifying wild edibles and medicinal plants, and lots more with guest instructor Derek Barkeim. On Friday, get lost in the woods with Nature Center naturalists while you learn orienteering by mastering how to use a compass and completing a compass course.
Ages 12-14 yrs • $85.00 ($75.00 for Friends members)
Monday through Friday, June 26- 30; 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.
Spend five days learning wilderness survival and awareness skills to equip you for your next outdoor adventure! Practice building shelters, using primitive traps, creating friction fires, identifying wild edibles and medicinal plants, and lots more with guest instructor Derek Barkeim. On Friday, get lost in the woods with Nature Center naturalists while you learn orienteering by mastering how to use a compass and completing a compass course.
Intro to Camping [Register]
Ages 12-14 yrs • $60.00 ($55.00 for Friends members)
Friday-Saturday, June 16-17; 5:00 p.m.-9:00 a.m.
Take your backyard “camping” to the next level and sleep in the wilderness at the Nature Center. Learn how to put up your own tent (provided by us), cook supper, and start a fire. We will also go on a 3 mile hike at the Nature Center, so bring your hiking shoes. Don’t worry, a camping trip isn't a camping trip without roasting marshmallows. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Supper and breakfast are provided.
Ages 12-14 yrs • $60.00 ($55.00 for Friends members)
Friday-Saturday, June 16-17; 5:00 p.m.-9:00 a.m.
Take your backyard “camping” to the next level and sleep in the wilderness at the Nature Center. Learn how to put up your own tent (provided by us), cook supper, and start a fire. We will also go on a 3 mile hike at the Nature Center, so bring your hiking shoes. Don’t worry, a camping trip isn't a camping trip without roasting marshmallows. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Supper and breakfast are provided.
12-18 years
Climbing Red Wing [Register]
Ages 12-18 yrs • $120.00 ($110.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, July 10 & 11; 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. : Indoor climbing practice
Wednesday, July 12; 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. : Outdoor climbing in Red Wing's
Participants in this special three-day climbing class will spend the first two afternoons at the Albert Lea Rock Gym for an intro to climbing, learning how to climb safely, and prepping to climb outdoors. On the final day, participants will apply these skills to an outdoor climb at Barn Bluff in Red Wing! Please bring a lunch and water on July 13.
Ages 12-18 yrs • $120.00 ($110.00 for Friends members)
Monday & Tuesday, July 10 & 11; 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. : Indoor climbing practice
Wednesday, July 12; 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. : Outdoor climbing in Red Wing's
Participants in this special three-day climbing class will spend the first two afternoons at the Albert Lea Rock Gym for an intro to climbing, learning how to climb safely, and prepping to climb outdoors. On the final day, participants will apply these skills to an outdoor climb at Barn Bluff in Red Wing! Please bring a lunch and water on July 13.
Family/Adult
Family Nature Photography with Morgan Converse [Register]
Family • $45.00 per family ($40.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 5; 5:30-8:00 p.m.
In this class, designed specifically for families, you'll learn the basics of nature photography while exploring the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own.
Family • $45.00 per family ($40.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 5; 5:30-8:00 p.m.
In this class, designed specifically for families, you'll learn the basics of nature photography while exploring the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own.
Family Monarch Tagging [Register]
Family/Adult • $25.00 per family ($20.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 26; 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Help with Monarch Watch’s research by learning to catch, tag, record, and release monarchs on their amazing 2,000-mile journey to spend the winter in Mexico!
Family/Adult • $25.00 per family ($20.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 26; 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Help with Monarch Watch’s research by learning to catch, tag, record, and release monarchs on their amazing 2,000-mile journey to spend the winter in Mexico!
Adult Nature Photography (16 +) with Morgan Converse [Register]
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, July 8; 5:30-8:00 p.m.
In this class, designed specifically for adults, you'll learn the basics of nature photography while exploring the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own.
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, July 8; 5:30-8:00 p.m.
In this class, designed specifically for adults, you'll learn the basics of nature photography while exploring the Nature Center. Cameras will be provided or use your own.
Adult Cedar River Kayaking Trip (16+) [Register]
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 5; 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Explore the beautiful Cedar River and parts of Mower County you may have never seen before, with a naturalist guided kayak trip. You do not need to know how to kayak to go on this trip!
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Saturday, August 5; 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Explore the beautiful Cedar River and parts of Mower County you may have never seen before, with a naturalist guided kayak trip. You do not need to know how to kayak to go on this trip!
Adult Inside the Honeybee Hive (16 +) with Erin Rupp [Register]
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 5:45-7:45 p.m.
Erin Rupp from Pollinate Minnesota will be going inside our Nature Center hives with you right by her side suited up in bee suits. Learn about the fascinating ins and outs of everyday honeybee life.
Adult • $20.00 ($15.00 for Friends members)
Wednesday, July 19; 5:45-7:45 p.m.
Erin Rupp from Pollinate Minnesota will be going inside our Nature Center hives with you right by her side suited up in bee suits. Learn about the fascinating ins and outs of everyday honeybee life.
Friends of the Hormel Nature Center membership benefits for 2023 include a $5.00 discount on each child’s fee for all Summer Adventure Programs (parent must be a member). Family/Adult classes are eligible for the $5 discount.
Click here for more Friends membership info and benefits.
Click here for more Friends membership info and benefits.
Additional summer programs made possible by funding from the State of Minnesota's Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund.