Schedule of Events

What makes a bird of prey different from other birds? Using our collection of live birds, you will learn the life history of several species including hawks, owls and falcons. There will be a chance to get an up-close look at the birds and explore artifacts including skulls, wings, talons and feathers.
Registration required

Fee: $5 per person/FREE to members

Have your little tyke learn about the changing seasons as winter turns to spring. Animals and birds are returning from their winter home and the ground is starting to thaw as plants are beginning to sprout. Dress for the weather as we will be going outside to explore.

Registration required

Free: $4 per child/FREE to members

CANCELLED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER
Visit Sanctuary Woods to explore the sights and sounds of spring. This time of year brings migrating birds, beautiful wildflowers, and active mammals. We will hike the lower loop and upper loop of this amazing dune ecosystem to see what animals and plants are ready for spring.

Registration required

Fee:FREE - program sponsor Laketown Twp.

Program location: Sanctuary Woods, 4749 66th Street, Holland, MI
 

The purpose of “Nature School” is to introduce the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, games, books, songs, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience.

Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment.

Registration required and limitedhttp://outdoordiscovery.doubleknot.com/event/nature-school-april-5/2273284

Location: Founders Hall Classroom, 4214 56th Street, Holland, MI 49423

Fee: $10 per child or $5 per child for members (per class)

THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER
Explore the nature preserve with a naturalist in search of two bird species most people don’t see: American Woodcock and Wilson’s Snipe. Dress in dark clothing and be prepared to be outside the entire time. Flashlights are welcome. Meet at the Visitors Center for a brief introduction before going outside.

Registration required

Fee: $4 per person or FREE for members

It's time to round up the little ones and come out to the ODC for Explore a Story!
We'll be introducing kids to the outdoors through books and outdoor adventures. We'll read books, take hikes, meet animals, and have lots of fun. Dress for the weather because we'll be heading outside to see what the world has in store for us! Every session will be different, so you won't want to miss a single one.

Ages: 0-6 yrs with parent

Registration is not required but appreciated.

Fee: $4 per child/FREE to members

We're teaming up with Saugatuck Brewing Company to get the Saugatuck Dunes ready for the summer season! We'll provide you with garbage bags, rubber gloves, and a trail map - all you need to bring is your hiking boots!
After your section of the trail is done, head over to SBC for beer & snacks! Everyone who participates will receive complimentary snacks at the brewery; anyone 21+ will also receive two $1.00 pint vouchers redeemable at SBC.

Program location: Shore Acres Park, 6602 138th Ave. Holland, MI 49423

Registration not required but appreciated

Fee: FREE - program sponsor Saugatuck Brewing Company

“VoLes” (Volunteer League) Club for Teens

Middle and High School age students looking for volunteer hours, or who are interested in learning more about the work and mission of the Outdoor Discovery Center, are encouraged to join the new “VoLes” Volunteer League! This program is designed for 12 to 18 year olds who will work with a staff member on a variety of indoor and outdoor tasks. We will spend time caring for our captive wildlife, improving the nature preserve by removing invasive species and installing native plants, and a number of other activities that further our goal of connecting people with nature.

Registration required

VoLes Club Meetings are scheduled for one Friday afternoon and one Saturday morning of each month. Spring, Summer and Fall sessions are available, no prior experience or participation required to sign up.

There is no fee for this activity, however a signed Behavior Guidelines Agreement and Photo/Liability Release Form are required.

Explore the nature preserve with a naturalist in search of two bird species most people don’t see: American Woodcock and Wilson’s Snipe. Dress in dark clothing and be prepared to be outside the entire time. Flashlights are welcome. Meet at the Visitors Center for a brief introduction before going outside.

Registration required

Fee: $4 per person or FREE for members  

The purpose of “Nature School” is to introduce the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, games, books, songs, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience.

Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment.
Registration required and limited

Location: Founders Hall Classroom, 4214 56th Street, Holland, MI 49423

Fee: $10 per child or $5 per child for members (per class)

As a part of our ongoing maintenance and management, we offer a number of volunteer opportunities to help maintain these properties. These volunteer opportunities are open to the public, registration for each work day is appreciated. We actively manage our restored 155 acre nature preserve in Fillmore Township (Holland) in addition to properties along the Macatawa River Greenway (Holland area) and the Rabbit River in Heath Township (Hamilton). We appreciate the community volunteers provide time and energy and know their help is crucial to successful habitat management.

In volunteering with the us, a person will gain valuable work experience related to conservation and ecological restoration. Volunteers will get hands on experience with practical aspects of natural resource management including plant identification and best management practices for working with native flora and common Midwest invasive species.

Depending on the task at hand, volunteers may find themselves cutting and removing invasive species, planting seeds or trees, or assisting with chemical or biological control of problematic species.

We are looking for motivated, hardworking individuals to further our mission to connect people with nature.

This work day's objective: pulling invasive species! 

Program Location: Rabbit River Preserve, 4401 135th Ave.  Hamilton, MI

Register Today!

Wake up with the birds as you hike the trails with a naturalist in search of spring migrants like warblers, vireos, flycatchers and shorebirds. Binoculars and field guides are available for loan. Meet at the Ottawa Beach Road parking lot.
Registration required

Fee: FREE

Program Location: Stu Visser Trails, 923 Ottawa Beach Rd. Holland, MI

Program Sponsor: Park Township