June is Glowing

June has arrived, and with it, the vibrant pulse of life at Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve is in full swing! We are absolutely thrilled to share the enchanting experiences from our recent school field trips, where children of all ages immersed themselves in nature’s wonders, forging connections and discovering the incredible ways the great outdoors nurtures our well-being. As we bid farewell to the school season and eagerly welcome the summer, our landscape is blossoming at a breathtaking pace! We invite you and your family to join us for our creative summer camps, embark on explorations with our adventure packs, or simply bask in the beauty of nature with a delightful picnic under the sun. Our dedicated staff is hard at work crafting magical spaces, vibrant gardens, engaging programs, and so much more! No matter how you choose to embrace the radiant spirit of Winnie’s natural haven, we can’t wait to welcome you for a visit soon.

Let’s create unforgettable memories together!

Sincerely,

Executive Director, Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve

School's Out and Summer's In!

This spring of 2025, Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve (WPNR) welcomed thousands of school children to engage in hands-on exploration of our diverse ecosystems, where they enthusiastically searched for insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and a myriad of other wildlife. Our nurturing and inviting atmosphere fosters a safe and supportive environment that is conducive to collaboration and teamwork, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the invaluable lessons that nature imparts. With our educational programs running from April to October, we provide a unique opportunity for teachers to facilitate impactful learning experiences that highlight the importance of environmental stewardship. By emphasizing experiential learning, we not only cultivate curiosity but also create lasting connections with nature that resonate deeply with both educators and their young audiences. We invite teachers and educators to partner with WPNR to enhance their students' educational journeys through outdoor exploration.

Welcome Summer Student Staff

The heartbeat of the Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve (WPNR) this summer is filled with enthusiasm and anticipation as we warmly welcome back Bailey, along with newcomer Aidan, both passionate Environmental Science undergraduate students from Saint Vincent College. Their unique talents and expertise will significantly enhance our summer initiatives, contributing to a variety of projects including landscape upgrades, animal care, and program enhancements. Their involvement not only signifies a commitment to improving the guest experience at WPNR but also exemplifies the valuable collaboration between WPNR and Saint Vincent College, fostering educational opportunities that benefit both our students and the community. We invite everyone to join us in welcoming Bailey and Aidan to our team that inspire a lasting love for nature.

Learning Center Barn Closure

Our Leaning Center Barn will be CLOSED to the public from Thursday, June 5 through June 13, 2025 for heating and air-conditioning upgrades in our facility. Continue to enjoy our trails, gardens, and outdoor exploration areas during this time. See you on June 17th!

Garden Gaze Day

Summertime Series for Little Learners

NST Registration

Hike and Write

Amazing August Play

Summer Shines Already!

As early June unfolds, Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of color and life, echoing the words of John Steinbeck: “In early June the world of leaf and blade and flowers explodes, and every sunset is different.” The landscape bursts forth with vibrant shades of green, shimmering gold, soft pink, and warm orange, creating a stunning backdrop for the myriad of creatures that come alive in this enchanting space. From the tiniest insects buzzing about to the graceful birds flitting overhead, every corner of WPNR is teeming with activity, inviting families to embark on delightful adventures. The end of the school season brings a sense of wonder, as unexpected surprises await along the winding trails. Come and experience this captivating transformation, where every step reveals new delights and ignites a passion for the outdoors in visitors of all ages!

All Good Things Come...

As summer approaches, we are diligently engaged in mending, upgrading, and nurturing our landscape and infrastructure, all in eager anticipation of the countless adventures that await you. Your support and patience during this transformative period are invaluable to us, and we are profoundly grateful for your essential role in fostering a love for the natural world. Thanks to recent grant awards, we are excited to announce a diverse array of enriching experiences designed specifically for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Our commitment to optimizing our resources ensures that each visit will provide unforgettable learning opportunities for all ages. Together, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant community that values and protects our environment, reinforcing the importance of connecting with the natural world around us.