Guided Nature Trail Programs
Guided Nature Trail Programs enable children and adults alike to explore the world around us. Whether it’s scavenging for insects, or discovering what lives in the pond, you can become a nature detective! All programs can be modified for any age group. Their are several different themes you can choose from, including:
Observing My World
Activities include collecting seeds and leaves on a nature hike, sorting collected materials, viewing nature through a magnifying glass, and leaf rubbings. 1 ½ hour session
Critter Connection
Nature detectives go on an insect hunt, study how animals acquire food, and the physical adaptations animals have for eating. Investigate animal skulls and tracks. 1 ½ hour session
Water, Water Everywhere
Activities include wetland hopscotch, a study of erosion and how to control it, a water cycle demonstration, and understanding leaf transpiration. 1 ½ hour session
Weather Watching
Study clouds, solar energy, and basic weather monitoring equipment. Explore weather effects at RBNC while on a “Weather Watch Walk.” 1 ½ hour session
Outdoor Education Program
Outdoor lab emphasizing the importance of collecting data, taking good notes, and demonstrating safe practices during field investigations. Discuss environmentally appropriated and ethical practices. 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
The Aquatic Environment
Visit the pond to explore how water quality and availability affect plant and animal life. Assess water quality of the river and pond. Investigate water as a valuable resource. 1 ½ hour session
How to Get There…
This is a basic orienteering course appropriate for students in grades 3, 4, and 5. Your students need to bring their knowledge of basic math skills and a little enthusiasm to learn about this rapidly growing sport. We supply the maps, compasses, site and instruction. Allow 2 hours/session.
All curricula is geared to the TEKS
How do we schedule? Register your group by calling the Education Department at River Bend Nature Center. The River Bend office number is 940-767-0843 and our hours are Monday–Friday from 9:00am–5:00 pm. If you leave a voice mail please be sure to include the phone number and the best time to call. To ensure a favorable time, it is better to schedule as early in advance as possible, even 4-6 weeks if possible. Guided trail programs are available throughout the year. Your program date can be be confirmed by fax or e-mail.
What is the fee? $5 per student. There is a minimum of $50 (8 students). Teachers and designated chaperones are free. (Designated chaperones are one per group.) Additional visitors are $5 each.
How many of us can visit? The nature trail capacity for each field trip session is 50-60 participants. If a you have a larger group, please call early to make special arrangements.
What is the field guide to student ratio? Guides will be secured based on the number of students quoted: one field guide per 8-12 students.
What else should we know? Picnic tables, water fountains, and restroom facilities are available. You are welcome to stay after the program and eat lunch or snack. There is no additional charge, but a reservation is required for the pavilion. Please do not leave children unattended.
Please arrive on time, and depart on time. Confirmations of the date and time are sent prior to the field trip date. Please call the office, 767-0843, to let us know if buses are running late. Our field guide staff members report to duty based on the field trip schedule each day. We cannot lengthen the field trip if a group is late, our guides schedule may not allow them stay any longer than the schedule indicated.
Want to know about other programs we offer? Call us at 940-767-0843
