Youth Programs & Family Programs

Highlands Center Nature Camps are a meaningful way for children of all ages to spend time immersed in nature discovering the wonders of the Central Highlands. From the animals to plants to fungi and everything in between, our hope is to inspire children to develop a deeper sense of place and understanding of the natural world around them.

Field trips are offered to all students and are facilitated by HCNH education staff. Every field trip to the Highlands Center includes exploration, science education, hiking, and reflection.

You’re never too young to embrace the wonders of nature and to become a wise caretaker of the land. We are continually expanding our Early Childhood programs to encourage young children and their families to come play and learn together at the Highlands Center.

Our day programs immerse kids in the wonders of nature through hiking, experiments, games, and nature-based activities. Designed to spark curiosity and build a connection with nature, these programs let students discover wildlife, plants, and the natural world around them, one adventure at a time.

The Schoolyard Habitat Program is a partnership between the Highlands Center and local schools. Each year the Highlands Center works with a new school to implement the program by developing and maintaining a site-based outdoor native habitat and facilitating standards-based lessons in the habitat.

A free internship program for ages 14-17 years old that help develop leadership skills, strengthen group management skills, practice public speaking, establish deep interpersonal bonds all whilst developing a sense of place with the natural world.

Come on out to the Highlands Center for Natural History for Discovery Saturday! Learning Stations highlighting the many wonders of the Central Highlands will be set up throughout our Discovery Gardens. The learning stations provide each visitor the chance to learn and to become wise caretakers of the land.

Upcoming Presentations:

Bring your littles to the Highlands Center for some free family fun in the forest! We will meet at 10am in Forest Play to read stories, explore nature-related topics, go on hikes, play games, and do crafts! This program is designed for children ages 0 to 5 and their adult(s). This wonderful program is free, but does require pre-registration for each date as there are limited spots available.

3rd Wednesday of the month with exceptions- learn different facets of natural history in Arizona and sometimes beyond…..

Our Community Nature Study Series (CNSS) is one of our flagship Adult Programs brought to you in partnership with the Arizona Master Naturalists (AZMN) of the Central Highlands Chapter. Through this series, there is a wide range of enriching and enlightening subjects for the learner about the Central Highlands around us and sometimes beyond. No matter the topic, you will discover new and exciting facts about the natural world.

Upcoming Presentations: