One Saturday a month (winter and fall)
Nature Days
What do a salmon scale and a tree ring have in common? What critters live in our wetland? Explore these questions and more at Columbia Springs’ Family Nature Days! Start at our Visitor Center for maps, information, and activities. Choose your own adventure around our forests and enjoy volunteer-led activities, games, and Guided Walks!
Nature Events
Dates & Times
2024 Winter Nature Days
Check in table in front of the Visitor Center
10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
January 27th – Winter
February 24th – Love of Salmon
March 23rd – Spring at the Springs
Fall Nature Days
Check in table in front of the Visitor Center
10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Oct 26th – Fall Fest
Nov 23rd – Super Plants
Dec 14th – Nature Connected
Can’t make it to the event? Check out the Columbia Springs Portal to Nature and Fun! This resource includes curated science and nature content for all community members to enjoy. The content ties to the themes of the Nature Days and is updated at the beginning of every month.
Nature fun Days
FAQ’s
What are Nature Days?
They are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town! Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature.
What is the cost to attend?
These events are free thanks to our generous sponsors!
If you won’t be able to attend but would like to donate in support of this event, please click here!
Where are Nature Days?
Nature Days happen at Columbia Springs, which is a 100-acre natural site, historic fish hatchery, and outdoor education center.
It is located at 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA, 98368. Free parking is available.
Are the activities indoors or outdoors?
Both; some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
What should we wear and bring?
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Will the event be cancelled if it rains?
Nope! The event will go on rain or shine. Just dress accordingly. And often we find that we see more critters out and about when it rains, so it’s not always a bad thing.
In the unlikely event that there is severe weather forecasted, we will make a decision by 5 p.m. on the day before the event. Cancellation information will be posted on our social media pages and our website.
Is your site stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved.
You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Learn More
Questions?
Interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteer for one of our events? Looking for other ways to get involved?
Contact our Community Engagement Specialist.