A New Chapter Begins at ODC Network
Over 25 years ago, ODC Network began as a single nature center. Since then, the organization has flourished into a leader in connecting conservation, education, and outdoor access—all inspired by the belief in the power of nature to improve lives. Through years of growth and change, the Outdoor Discovery Center, ODC Network’s flagship campus and the place where it all began, has continued to evolve alongside the organization itself.
Now, a new chapter begins.
From the Spoelhof Family Visitor Center and DeVisser Family Discovery Pavilion to the newly created Haworth & Klow Family Imagination Forest, the spaces that welcome visitors to ODC have been thoughtfully reimagined to create opportunities for exploration, discovery, and outdoor play for all ages. Designed to inspire curiosity and connection, these spaces invite visitors to splash in flowing water, climb beneath the trees, wander winding pathways, gather with friends, and simply slow down.
“The transformation of this property gives our visitors a world-class outdoor experience—with spaces built for adventure, discovery, and the kind of learning that only happens in connection with nature,” said Travis Williams, CEO of ODC Network. “More importantly, these spaces reflect what we’ve learned over the past 25 years: when people have opportunities to play, explore, and connect outdoors, communities are stronger and people thrive.”
On June 20, we’re opening the doors, and we’d love for you to be among the first to explore.
What's New
Three spaces have been transformed, each designed to bring visitors closer to nature and to each other.
The Haworth & Klow Family Imagination Forest
Designed to immerse visitors in the forest itself, The Haworth & Klow Family Imagination Forest invites climbing, balancing, and exploration among trees that were planted at ODC’s founding. Elevated platforms, handcrafted rope features, and natural play elements create opportunities for adventure and discovery at every turn.
Visitors can splash in a recirculating stream shallow enough for curious feet and small hands, scramble over rocks, and dig in the sand at the forest floor.
At the heart of the experience is an expansive silver maple log. ODC’s own team spent a week carefully hollowing it out by hand to become a tunnel spanning the stream. Two people, a chainsaw, and a vision for what it could become.
Visitors don’t simply observe the forest — they experience it from within.
The DeVisser Family Discovery Pavilion
The DeVisser Family Discovery Pavilion has been enhanced as a gathering place for community and connection. A place to rest, reflect, and find your next adventure, because getting outside is better together.
The Spoelhof Family Visitor Center
Originally built in 2015, the Spoelhof Family Visitor Center has been thoughtfully updated with exhibits designed around a single, powerful idea: that humans and wildlife are deeply interconnected, and that each of us plays a role in the health of the natural world around us.
Visitors can explore living fish, reptiles, and a resident owl; step inside a cave structure; and experience a full-scale birdhouse that gives you the perspective of typical avian residents—moments designed to spark curiosity and sense of belonging to the natural world.
The new exhibits make the visitor center a particularly rich destination for school field trips, giving students and teachers a hands-on, experiential way to explore STEM topics like ecosystems and animal classification.
You’re Invited to Explore
Our Grand Reopening event takes place Saturday, June 20 from 9am to 12pm, with activities, food, and fun for the whole family. Can’t make it that day? The Outdoor Discovery Center trails and outdoor spaces are open daily from sunrise to sunset, while the main Visitor Center operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday–Friday, and 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays
Bring your family. Get your socks wet. We can’t wait to share it with you.
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