Events

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 presentation that is great for all ages. Time to handle some of the wildlife may be conducted during the program or at its conclusion depending […]

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 learn identification techniques and more while identifying birds on the walk. All experience levels are welcome.Binoculars will be provided.It is suggested to download Merlin Bird […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to […]

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 these small animals. Get a closer look at their life cycles, habitats, and unique traits that make them so extraordinary. All the materials you’ll need […]

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 child! This fall we will be learning about wildflowers, creeping critters, and animal signs.For ages 7 and under. Guardians stay with the class.Registration is required. Register […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help […]

Fall is the perfect season to dive into the incredible world of insects! Join a naturalist as we venture through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden lives of these small animals. Get a closer look at their life cycles, habitats, and unique traits that make them so extraordinary. All the materials you’ll need […]

Plants and their seeds need to grow. Seeds spread using a variety of methods so they do not compete with their parent plant. Students will discover the many different ways seeds travel through demonstrations, hands-on activities, and a hike.This drop-off program is geared for home schoolers ages 6 - 12. Please bring a water bottle […]

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 outdoor adventures. We’ll read stories, take hikes, meet animals, and have lots of fun. Dress for the weather, this program is outdoors.For ages 1-7.Guardians stay with […]

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 our resident raptors – including hawks, owls, and falcons. You'll have the opportunity to see these magnificent birds up close, and explore their amazing features, […]

Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them.Walk the trails of Bysterveld Park with one of our naturalists. Learn about the abundant wildflowers that grow in the meadows and the large trees you can find in the forest. Wear […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to […]

Get an up close look at our Macatawa River ecosystem as we paddle through its waters on this unique birdwatching kayak adventure! As we paddle, we will focus on identifying by sight and by sound the various bird species that call our river home. We will also learn the roles they play in making this […]

Gwénbeshké (Turning Over a New Leaf) Celebration.Join us as we celebrate the care, creativity, and community effort that brought the ODC Network's Cultural History Center to life. This special gathering honors Anishinaabe history and culture while marking an exciting new chapter for the Center.Myriah Williams, M.Ed., Potawatomi Pokagon Band Citizen and ODC Cultural and Environmental […]

Held at Diamond Springs Golf Course, located in Hamilton, this is an event to bring people together, network, and generate revenue for ODC’s mission! During this unique scramble-style event, golfers will have the opportunity to learn about all aspects of ODC Network and get up close to live Birds of Prey! All funds raised will […]

Held at Diamond Springs Golf Course, located in Hamilton, this is an event to bring people together, network, and generate revenue for ODC’s mission! During this unique scramble-style event, golfers will have the opportunity to learn about all aspects of ODC Network and get up close to live Birds of Prey! All funds raised will […]

Join us for an hour-long guided walk as we explore the fascinating world of fungi right here in Michigan. We’ll stroll through the area looking for mushrooms and other fungi while learning what fungi are, how they differ from plants and animals, and the important roles they play in our ecosystems. Along the way, we’ll […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help […]

Don't forget to bring your Park Passport when you head to Rabbit River Preserve! You'll get a stamp at this delightful free open house event, which counts as an extra park visited. Plus, you can grab some fun swag and have the wonderful chance to see an animal up close!  Fee: FREE - no registration […]

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 drop off their 4-6 year old or stay with the class. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to […]

Step into the woods after dark for a thrilling night-time adventure! As we walk under the stars, you'll use your senses to discover how much you can feel, hear, touch, and even see in the dark. Along the way, you'll learn how nocturnal animals rely on their heightened senses to navigate the night and survive. […]