Guided Field Trips at RGNC
The Nature Center offers free guided programs for school, youth, and adult groups.
For Youth Programs:
Group size is limited to no more than 60 kids and no less than 8 kids. Schools may have up to 3 classes visit at one time (class ≈ 25 kids plus chaperones). No more than one class at a time in the Visitor Center.
For Adult Programs:
We can accommodate no more than 60 people and no less than 8 people. If your group is larger than 25, we will split you into smaller groups.
Our current guided programs:
- Pond Exploration: This program offers learners of all ages a hands-on opportunity to explore pond ecosystems by observing and identifying macroinvertebrates like dragonfly larvae and aquatic beetles using nets, trays, and microscopes at the Discovery Pond.
- Bosque Exploration: This program focuses on bosque ecology and desert adaptations. In this program, we hike through the bosque to the Rio Grande, along the way highlighting plants, animals, and important history crucial to understanding the bosque ecosystem.
- Sensory Exploration: This program encourages learners to discover the beauty and intrigue of nature by using all of our senses. We will notice the colors all around us, feel the bark of Cottonwoods, smell the scents of the bosque, and listen to the sounds of birds.
If you do not wish to have a guided program, we also encourage self-guided group visits. If you are interested in bringing a group for a self-guided field trip, please fill out the form and check Self-Guided.
Requests for group visits for children must be received at least four weeks in advance of the requested date. One form is needed for each visit. Complete the form below and submit it via email. You will receive an email confirmation within a week of submitting your request.
For any questions concerning group visits to the Rio Grande Nature Center, please call the Visitor Center Front Desk at 505-344-7240.