Explorers Camp activities include: hikes, creek exploration, pond investigations, archery, fishing, arts and crafts, and more. Participants will be outside most of each day and will need to bring a lunch, water bottle, and an extra change of clothes and closed-toe shoes daily. Guest presenters, special activities, and off-site (field trip) experiences and are also planned throughout the summer. Details and other important information about the program and specific weekly activities will be emailed to registered participants prior to camp. All fees for camps taking place in June must be paid by May 15. All fees for July and August camps are due by June 15. Cancellations not received one week prior to camp are non-refundable and collectable, if unpaid. Payment and Form finalize enrollment. Extended hours available: 8:00 am – 5:30pm. 

Preschool & PreK Programs:
Our program is based on the conviction that children learn by doing:  hiking, climbing, digging, building and being outdoors regardless of the weather.  Nature Preschool offers children the opportunity to explore nature in a wildlife sanctuary, encountering diverse landscapes and animals during daily hikes and outdoor play. 

Preschool Program: Teachers use the Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines to plan experiences and add materials that enhance children's understanding of topics of interest while also incorporating activities through play for:

• Developing and strengthening communication skills.
• Developing independence and perseverance. 
• Recognizing letters, especially those in children's names.
• Learning math skills such as shapes, counting, quantities, sorting and comparing. 
• Self-expression through visual arts, music, movement, and pretend play. 

Ages: 3 and 4 year olds
Days and Times:  Tuesday & Thursday mornings 9:00 to 11:30

PreK Program:  This program is designed to support your child's transition from preschool to kindergarten and builds upon the Preschool Program curriculum with additional opportunities to work on letter recognition and printing, phonological awareness and journaling.

Ages:  4 and 5 year olds
Days and Times:  Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings 9:00 to 11:30 or afternoons 12:45 to 3:15 (please note new afternoon PreK time beginning in 2022-23 school year)  

For more information, please contact Candace Kastrup, Preschool Director at 402-441-8669. 

Pioneers Park Nature Center offers an array of events for all ages! Contact the Pioneers Park Nature Center for more information at (402) 441-7895.

Visit the Nature Center to learn about nature, hiking, and the plants and animals that you might encounter in Nebraska. Your hike leader will help you identify plants and animals and animals signs of animals while hiking and exploring the Nature Center

Hikes can be adapted for specific scout level requirements. Hikes must be arranged at least two weeks in advance.

Call 402-441-7895 for more info or to schedule your hike.