Nature Discovery Program

INSPIRING A CONNECTION TO THE OUTDOORS

Connecting Nashville Youth to the Outdoors

We partner with the Warner Park Nature Center to provide high-quality outdoor and environmental education experiences for Metro Parks Community Centers in Nashville.

The goal of the Nature Discovery Program is to get youth outside and excited about the natural world, help them develop a level of comfort in the outdoors, promote a connection to and appreciation of nature and wildlife, and foster a feeling of responsibility in caring for the environment.

Program Offerrings

Led By A Dedicated Team of Naturalists Making a Difference

Our Program Coordinator works alongside volunteers and Community Center Leaders to develop and implement over 80 programs throughout the year— After-school Nature Detectives Club, P.E.N. Pals Summer Camps, Fall Cookouts & Campfires.

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Nature Discovery Programs

The P.E.N. Pals (People Exploring Nature) summer camp program brings youth from Metro Parks Community Centers to the Warner Parks for a full day of nature exploration and outdoor adventure!

Youth follow their curiosity as they explore the meadow, pond, and garden ecosystems, hike through the forest, observe wildlife, kayak, learn outdoor skills, search for crawdads in the Little Harpeth River, and create lasting memories in nature.

This after-school program provides hands-on nature exploration, environmental education, and outdoor activities at various Metro Parks Community Centers, inspiring an awareness of nature and biodiversity in local communities.

‍Community center youth experience the Warner Parks during the fall season. Earlier sunsets and cooler temperatures mean it’s time to roast hot dogs, make s’mores, and enjoy time around the campfire.

Youth take a crepuscular hike through the meadows and forests of the Warner Parks, cook dinner and s’mores over a campfire, view the night sky, learn about nocturnal critters, and share songs and stories.

Did You Know?

The Nature Discovery Program serves over 1,000 youth annually.

From Afterschool Nature Detectives to P.E.N. Pals day camps and fall cookouts, the Nature Discovery Program hosts 83 annual programs and collaborates with 22+ Metro Parks Community Centers.