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.
Accessible Adventure: A Nature Program Built for Every Explorer
We believe in building nature programming for every age, ability, and comfort level.
A Fallen Tree from ODC Gets a New Life at ArtPrize
Most of the trees that succumb to an invasive species end up as stumps. This one is in an international art festival.
This Annual, Non-Native Flower Kicks Off Our Restoration Process. Here’s Why.
Cosmos play a specific role in how we approach a full-scale prairie restoration.
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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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 […] |
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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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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, […] |
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Once the sun goes down, animals that are specially adapted to life at night become active. Learn what features or skills allow them to be effective predators or to avoid […] |
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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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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 […] |
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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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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, […] |
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Join us in birding on October Big Day! October Big Day is a great way to join birders around the world in our love of birds! All experience levels are […] |
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Join us as we explore the exciting world of bird migration in Michigan! Participants will learn about the amazing journeys many birds make in order to find more resources throughout […] |
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Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them. This archery program will include a […] |
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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 […] |
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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 […] |
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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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Bring your entire family out for a safe and fun walk along the trails of the Outdoor Discovery Center. There will be wildlife encounters, games and candy. Don't miss seeing […]
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October 17th VoLes volunteers will assist with the Treats-n-Trails event at the Outdoor Discovery Center. Times are TBD, and volunteer opportunities will occur in shifts with a variety of activities […] |
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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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Enjoy a fun and relaxing night sipping on your favorite wine and following along to a guided painting session - no experience necessary! As you create your masterpiece, you’ll be […] |
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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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Discover nature using your senses at this family-friendly, open-house event for all ages! Explore a variety of interactive stations including animal encounters, nature observation, sounds, scents, and creative habitat-building activities. Participants […] |
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Get the family and explore outside with a fall scavenger hunt. Join one of our naturalists and hike the trails of Keppel Forest in search of colors, bugs, birds, plants […] |
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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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