by orionontv | Mar 4, 2026 | Informational
March is an exciting time to explore outdoor spaces and learn more about the nature all around us at Wint Nature Center. Birds and wildlife often begin their spring preparation despite the weather conditions, so you never know what you’ll see this time of year. Located in Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston, Wint Nature Center naturalists will help you make the most of your time outdoors. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:
- Explore the science of Geology during the Let’s Be Geologists Mini Camp from 1-3:30 p.m. March 7. Learn about how rocks are made, the different characteristics of rocks and much more by looking at real specimens and participating in hands-on activities. Plus, start your own rock collection. All supplies are included. This program is suitable for ages 5-10 years old. A release form is required with registration. Cost is $15/child
- Children ages 3-6 can enjoy nature fun as they increase their love for the outdoors during the monthly Puddle Jumpers program from 10:30-11:30 a.m. March 13. A naturalist will engage children with a story, nature talk and a related hands-on activity. Each child will make a craft to take home. March’s theme is At the End of the Rainbow. Cost is $5/child
- Ring in the maple season with our new mobile sugar shack! Explore the world of maple with a hands-on lesson on its history, science and geography during two sessions of To the Sugar Shack from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 2-4 p.m. March 14. See the sugaring process from tree to table and taste the result. This program is suitable for all ages. Cost is $10/person
- Learn about the history of maple sugaring during the Homeschool Series Program To the Sugar Shack from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 18. From Native American legends and pioneer tools to modern techniques, you’ll learn how to turn sap into syrup (and eventually sugar) while trying your hand at tapping a maple tree and exploring our new sugar shack. Cost is $10/child/session. Sessions are designed as a drop-off program for youth. All students are welcome, including those from a traditional homeschool, pod or virtual learning setting. A release form must be completed with registration
- “Sala-meander” your way down to Wint Nature Center to look for salamanders, frogs, fairy shrimp and many other animals during the Vernal Pool Stroll program from 7-9 p.m. March 28. Vernal pools are known as the “coral reefs” of Northern forests. This program is suitable for school-aged children and adults. Cost is $5/person
- ECHO (Early Childhood Hour Out) brings together parents, grandparents, nannies and caregivers from 10:30-11:30 a.m. every Thursday. This program features a caregiver-led activity provided by nature center staff and coffee, tea and conversation with other caregivers, strengthening community connections. Optional activities may take place outside. This program is free and no preregistration is necessary. Caregivers must supervise children at all times. Siblings are welcome
Preregistration with payment required by calling 248-858-0916 weekdays or 248-625-6473 during nature center hours or register online anytime.
Wint Nature Center
Wint Nature Center, located within Independence Oaks County Park, provides hands-on natural history exhibits, a captive live animal collection and an outdoor sensory garden as well as a bird feeding station and natural viewing area. Year-round educational programs presented by park naturalists are available to the public. American Sign Language interpreters are available during specific programs as noted on the Nature Education Program Schedule. Specialized nature programs include in person and virtual field trips, naturalist-led hikes and Wild Birthday Parties. Community Outreach Programs include nature presentations and nature information and touch tables. A portable inflatable planetarium can be booked either at the nature center or as an outreach program.
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