Darke County Parks’ Outdoor Adventure and In-classroom Programs are designed to offer teachers a way to enhance Ohio’s curriculum standards and incorporate inquiry-based learning activities. Through hands-on exploration, students are encouraged to make discoveries about the natural world and evaluate their findings.

Trips to the Nature Center: Click here to schedule

  • Adapted to Survive - Grade K

  • Resources; Naturally - Grade 1

  • Who Lives Here? - Grade 2

  • Life Cycles (Spring/Fall versions) - Grade 3

  • Energy Through Ecosystems - Grade 5

  • Nature’s Sweet Treat - Grades K - 6 (Late Feb - Early March ONLY)

Naturalists in the Classroom: Click here to schedule

  • Changing Seasons - Grade K

  • Getting Ready for Winter - Grade 1

  • Water Cycle - Grade 2

  • Rock Cycle - Grade 3

  • Ohio Wildlife Timeline or Ohio Geologic Timeline - Grade 4

  • Meet the Solar System - Grade 5

Trips to the Historic Bear’s Mill : Click here to schedule

  • Guided Tours of the Historic Bear’s Mill - Grade 2+

  • Pioneer Days - Grade 4 (county-wide school program)

Field Trip Funding Options: