We focus strongly on equity and inclusion, helping to connect underrepresented communities to impactful experiences in nature. We recognize that not all kids have equal access to the outdoors, and not everyone feels safe and welcome in outdoor spaces. We believe that the health and wellbeing of children, families, and communities improves when all people connect to the outdoors.
We are a network
NatureConnect believes that we are more powerful when we work together as a community. The 32 organizations that make up the Children’s Forest all have the same goal: to improve health and learning for all children in Central Oregon by getting them outside. Learn more about our amazing partners and how you can get involved.
Support our Work
NatureConnect believes that every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors. Time outdoors brings so many benefits including improving our quality of life, health, social wellbeing, and bringing joy into our lives. Every dollar that you invest in NatureConnect works towards making the outdoors more accessible and inclusive for children from underrepresented communities.
Planting Seeds for Families
Planting Seeds for Families
The Children’s Forest knows that connections to nature start with families. When your kids spend time outside, they grow smarter, happier, healthier, more attentive, and less anxious. The Children’s Forest is here to connect you with fun and simple ways to enjoy nature with your kids. Learn more here.
Forging Trails for Teachers
Forging Trails for Teachers
The Children’s Forest partners with teachers and schools to enhance learning through outdoor education, giving students a learning experience that textbooks can’t provide. Learn about outdoor education programs, field trip funding, and other resources here.
Upcoming Events
Latest News
NatureConnect seeks new Board Members
NatureConnect Central Oregon is recruiting community members to join our Board of Directors. NCCO’s Board is comprised of at least 7 members and our goal is for the Board to reflect […]
NatureConnect Assumes Operations of Historic Skyliners Lodge
NatureConnect Central Oregon is proud to announce that we will assume operational and fiscal responsibility for the historic Skyliners Lodge, effective July 1, 2025. The High Desert Education Service District […]
Indigenous Curriculum Project Takes Off
NatureConnect has been working with several of our partners and tribal community members over the last two years towards integrating Indigenous content and knowledge into our outdoor programs. This […]
Wild and Free: Bend Outdoor Summer Camps for Every Explorer
As a parent with two kids in elementary school, I know how difficult navigating the world of summer camps can be. It feels like every year, registration for summer camps […]
Winter Break BINGO
It’s winter break! Kids have two whole weeks off from school which means more time to spend outside. Check out our winter break BINGO card for a fun challenge! The […]
Outdoor Program Trends in Central Oregon
Warning: This post is data-heavy but still full of heart! We don’t usually focus on numbers when sharing about NatureConnect’s work, but today is an exception! For those who […]
Buy Tickets for Our Amazing Raffle!
NatureConnect Fest Raffle! Enter the NatureConnect Fest Raffle for a chance to win some incredible prizes while supporting our work of connect kids and families to nature. Raffle tickets […]
