We believe the future lives outdoors
Getting outside changes everything. At ODC Network, we’re building a nature-rich community, one where people and nature thrive. That starts by making it easier for people to spend time outside, whether that’s exploring local trails, enrolling in programs, or connecting through nature-based learning.
This page is your starting point. Find simple ways to get outside, get involved, and be part of what we’re building together.
What's New
Stories, ideas, and inspiration to help you spend more time outside.
Gwénbeshké: Celebrating Indigenous Culture, History, and Community with ODC Network
The Gwénbeshké Celebration returns on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at ODC’s Cultural History Center.
How We’re Building Nature-Based School Environments That Help Students Thrive
ODC Network is a trusted, hands-on partner to lead schools through the full spectrum of nature-based engagement opportunities.
What Is a Watershed—and Why Should You Care About Ours?
Everyone living in the greater Holland or Zeeland area lives in the same watershed.
Get Outside
Start small. Attend a community program, walk a local trail, or spend more time outside with your family.
Or go further. Bring outdoor learning to your school, redesign your yard with native plants, travel the world on a conservation expedition, or partner with us to restore land at your home or workplace.
We’re building a nature-rich community together, inch by inch, acre by acre.
Unplugged: Disconnect to Reconnect
Resources from our Speaker series
We’re setting down screens and stepping outside. This spring, thousands joined us for a speaker series tackling the negative effects of screen time—and the restoration and repair time outdoors can bring. Join us in turning a moment into a community movement.
Events and Programs for everyone
Events
Calendar of Events
|
Sunday
|
Monday
|
Tuesday
|
Wednesday
|
Thursday
|
Friday
|
Saturday
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
2 events,
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […]
-
Have you ever wondered what snakes eat? What about frogs? Snakes and adult frogs are carnivores and only eat other animals. Come to the ODC this summer to find out […] |
0 events,
|
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Our Volunteer League (nicknamed "VoLes") is a service club for teens to experience what it takes to maintain a natural area and captive wildlife. This program is designed for 12 […] |
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Learn about the reptiles, amphibians and birds that can be found in Michigan with a naturalist from the Outdoor Discovery Center. Live animals will be used in this family friendly […] |
3 events,
-
Looking for a fun way to learn, enjoy nature, and spend time with your family? Join us for a family-friendly birding hike! Walk along the trails with one of our […]
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […]
-
Stop by the De Witt Birds of Prey Center during this open house style program and watch a naturalist feed our resident raptors. You will learn about the habitats these […] |
0 events,
|
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Join us as we introduce students to the incredible world of invertebrates! Participants will learn what makes an animal an invertebrate, explore the major invertebrate groups, and discover the incredible […] |
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Bring your little tykes out to discover the wonders of nature! Each program is a hands-on experience that will spark curiosity and create unforgettable memories for both you and your […] |
1 event,
-
Have you always wanted to try out archery? Now is your chance! This program is geared for anyone ages 10 and up. We will go over the basics of archery […] |
2 events,
-
Stop by the Eldean Wildlife Exhibit during this open house–style program and watch a naturalist feed our resident mammals. You will learn about the habitats these animals call home, their […]
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience.Parents can […] |
2 events,
-
Paddle the Kalamazoo River with naturalists from the ODC Network. Kayaks, paddles, and vests are provided. The group will launch from the New Richmond Bridge Park (north entrance) and paddle […]
-
Our Volunteer League (nicknamed "VoLes") is a service club for teens to experience what it takes to maintain a natural area and captive wildlife. This program is designed for 12 […] |
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Dates: Class is every Monday, August 17-September 28, from 9-11 am (Excluding September 7, which is Labor Day)Ages: 18 years or older.Cost: $60 per participant - Scholarships are available, if financial assistance is […] |
2 events,
-
It’s time to round up the little ones and come out to the Outdoor Discovery Center for Explore a Story! We’ll be introducing kids to the outdoors through books and […]
-
Participants will paddle from Pink Creek to Pine Creek Bay, exploring a scenic stretch of Lake Macatawa while focusing on the fascinating aquatic life that inhabits these waters. Along the […] |
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Hike the dune trails of Shore Acres township park as we search for incredible insects. Join a naturalist as we venture through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden […] |
2 events,
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […]
-
Have you ever wondered what snakes eat? What about frogs? Snakes and adult frogs are carnivores and only eat other animals. Come to the ODC this summer to find out […] |
2 events,
-
Join us for a birding hike around a local birding hotspot! Walk with one of our naturalists who will guide you through the trails. Our naturalist will help you learn […]
-
Explore the art and science of catching butterflies! Become amateur lepidopterists as we spend the morning in the meadow. Learn proper netting techniques, safe and humane insect capture, and methods […] |
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Join us for a fun-filled adventure at Winstrom Park! Bring the kiddos out to enjoy a lively storytime with one of our naturalists, and meet some of our amazing captive […] |
1 event,
-
Ever wondered what sets a bird of prey apart from other birds? Now’s your chance to discover the secrets of these incredible hunters! Join us as we get to know […] |
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Join us for this advanced beading class - sponsored by Park Township - where we will use hooks to create fringe earrings. We will be using seed beads, needles and […] |
2 events,
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […]
-
Stop by the De Witt Birds of Prey Center during this open house style program and watch a naturalist feed our resident raptors. You will learn about the habitats these […] |
0 events,
|
|
0 events,
|
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Learn about the reptiles, amphibians and birds that can be found in Michigan with a naturalist from the Outdoor Discovery Center. Live animals will be used in this family friendly […] |
0 events,
|
1 event,
-
Volunteer with the Allegan Conservation District for the opportunity to help remove autumn olive, an invasive shrub threatening our local ecosystems. During this program, you’ll learn to identify autumn olive, […] |
3 events,
-
Join us for a morning birding hike around a local birding hotspot! Walk with one of our naturalists who will guide you through the trails. Our naturalist will help you […]
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […]
-
Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents […] |
2 events,
-
Hike the trails of Cooper-Van Wieren as we search for some incredible insects. Join a naturalist as we venture through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden lives of […] |
