School and Group Programs

At Zion Nature Center we are dedicated to offering high quality environmental education programming, even during the CoVID-19 pandemic.  See our options below and contact us to schedule!

Parks Program Flyer


School Programs



The Zion Nature Center offers a variety of programs that align with current Indiana Science Standards from Preschool - 8th grade. All Zion Nature Center programs follow Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP). Our programming utilizes methods of inquiry and hands-on activities. Our programs can be offered in-person at our parks, in your schoolyard or on your facility property, or virtually through an online, interactive presentation.  

Common topics include:
  • Animal and plant life cycles
  • Adaptations
  • Food webs and energy transfer
  • Ecosystem science
  • Plant and animal classification
  • Native vs non-native animals and plants
  • Sustainability
  • And more!  We can customize a program to meet your needs!
The Zion Nature Center can provide your class with official Children of Indiana Nature Park environmental curriculum as a member of the Bicentennial Nature Center Network.

Traveling Teacher Trunks

Providing hands-on experiences can have a profound effect on learning. By involving students in a total learning experience their ability to think critically is significantly enhanced. In addition, studies indicate that it increases the student's motivation to learn and enhances their perception, creativity and logic. 

Thanks to a grant from Duke Energy Foundation we are pleased to offer Traveling Teacher Trunks to teachers in the surrounding area (Boone, Hamilton, Hendricks and Marion County). Each trunk provides your classroom access to quality natural resources, information and hands-on activities. Download our Education Program Guide for more information.

Available Traveling Teacher Trunks:

  • Senses and Seasons
  • Habitats and Ecosystems
  • Animal Adaptations
  • Nature Cycles
  • Indiana Rocks (completed by end of 2018)
  • Sustainable Indiana (completed by end of 2018)
seasons teacher box

Scout Programs

Join a Naturalist for a nature hike or complete requirements for a nature related badge or journey with Zion Nature Center. Private den or troop programs can be scheduled on Saturdays, over school breaks or weekday afternoons (Tuesday - Friday). We can even meet with your group virtually. For availability and more information contact the Zion Nature Center directly.

Boy Scouts, need help completing a Merit Badge? Our Park Naturalist is a Merit Badge Counselor for the following:

  • Bird Study
  • Nature
  • Geology
  • Plant Science     
  • Environmental Science
  • Reptile and Amphibian Study 
  • Forestry
  • Soil and Water Conservation
  • Gardening
  • Sustainability


Program Fees

2020 Group Program Fees
Program Type Fees
Virtual Field Trip $25 for 30-45 minutes; $40 for 45-90 minutes
Discover Your Schoolyard $50 per program; $40 for second program scheduled on same day. (only available within Zionsville municipal limits)
On-Site Program within
Zionsville Parks*
$2 per student; $50 minimum (Zionsville Community Schools)
$3 per student; $50 minimum (Zionsville Private School/Daycare)
$4 per student; $50 minimum (Out of Area School)
$3 per scout; $50 minimum (Zionsville Scout Group)
$4 per scout; $50 minimum (Out of Area Scout Group)
Teacher Trunks $10 for 2 week rental

*Due to COVID-19 concerns we are not currently scheduling programming within the Zion Nature Center.

Birthday Parties


Unfortunately, we are not currently scheduling any birthday party programs due to CoVID-19 concerns.  Check back soon.

Contact Us

  1. Zion Nature Center

    Email

    Physical Address
    690 Beech Street
    Zionsville, IN 46077

    Phone: 317-873-8950

    Hours
    Saturdays 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
    Sundays 12 - 5 p.m.

    Directory