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.
How ODC Network Is Helping Shape the Future of Early Childhood Education in Michigan
Over the past several years, ODC’s Early Childhood team has quietly become one of the most influential voices in Michigan on what nature-based early childhood education looks like and how it gets implemented.
The Reconnection Challenge Starts Now
We’re launching the Reconnection Challenge—a series designed to get you and the people you love outside, moving, and genuinely together.
Growing What Others Can’t: ODC and Rebel Cultures Are Changing How Restoration Works
There’s a problem quietly limiting conservation work: you can have the land, the expertise, and the will to restore a habitat—and you still might not be able to get the plants you need.
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
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2 events,
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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 […]
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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 […] |
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2 events,
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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 […]
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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 […] |
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Discover how nature’s dinner table really works! Join us for our monthly homeschool program, where you will get to explore food webs and learn how plants, animals, and decomposers are […]
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Join us for a fun-filled adventure at Virginia Park! Bring the kiddos out to enjoy a lively storytime with one of our naturalists, and meet some of our amazing captive […] |
1 event,
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First time paddlers will enjoy the casual exploration of Dumont Lake from single or double kayaks. Look for wildlife including birds, reptiles and amphibians with your naturalist guide. Personal water […] |
1 event,
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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 […] |
2 events,
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Get ready for a wild adventure! Families are invited to join a naturalist at a creek near Green Lake for a fun-filled exploration of amphibians, insects, and all kinds of […]
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Join us for a crafting session - sponsored by Park Township - filled with fun summer-themed projects! We’ll take inspiration from the sights, colors, and textures of the season, using […] |
3 events,
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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,
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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 […]
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Come wet a line during this catch-and-release free fishing day. All materials are provided including fishing poles, tackle, and bait. This is an open format program where participants can fish […] |
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2 events,
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Get ready for a wild adventure! Families are invited to join a naturalist at Farview Park for a fun-filled exploration of amphibians, insects, and all kinds of amazing aquatic life. […]
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Participants will paddle from Pink Creek to Pine Creek Bay, exploring a scenic section of Lake Macatawa. Along the way, participants will learn about local river wildlife, ongoing efforts to […] |
2 events,
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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 […]
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Hey grown-ups - ever wanted to shoot an arrow at a dinosaur? Or a polar bear? Maybe even a giant mosquito? Now’s your chance! Join us at the ODC to […] |
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1 event,
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We’re excited to announce that Evening at the ODC is returning to the Outdoor Discovery Center at a new time of year! This special evening celebrates the impact of ODC […]
$150
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2 events,
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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 […]
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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,
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Join us for the Grand Reopening of the Outdoor Discovery Center! Over the past year, we’ve made exciting updates to our facilities, and now it’s time to celebrate! Bring your […]
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Get an up close look at the Kalamazoo River ecosystem as we paddle through its waters on this unique birdwatching kayak adventure! As we paddle, we will focus on identifying […] |
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1 event,
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Join us for a fun-filled adventure at Wolters Woods! Bring the kiddos out to enjoy a lively story time with one of our naturalists, and meet some of our amazing […] |
2 events,
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Join us for a relaxed morning hike at New Richmond Bridge Park. We’ll explore the trails while observing local plants and wildlife. A naturalist will be on hand to answer […]
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Stop by during our monthly Open Hours at the Cultural History Center to check out exhibits, ask questions, play games, and chat with staff and fellow community members. A large […] |
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1 event,
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Paddle Littlejohn Lake with naturalists from the ODC Network. Kayaks, paddles, and vests are provided. The group will launch from the beach and paddle around the shore line. Lakes are […] |
2 events,
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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 […]
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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 […] |
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2 events,
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In celebration of Independence Day, the whole family is invited to meet one of our nation’s most iconic symbols in the feather. Get an up-close look at our resident bald […]
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Join us for a crafting session filled with fun summer-themed projects! We’ll take inspiration from the sights, colors, and textures of the season, using nature as our guide to create […] |