By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
Are you looking for a fun, hands-on way for your youngster to learn and explore outdoors?
College Station Parks and Recreation offers two interactive nature programs for 7–13-year-olds at the Gary Halter Nature Center that encourage curiosity, creativity and discovery. From exploring local ecosystems to learning how nature inspires engineering, each class provides engaging experiences led by knowledgeable educators.
Classes are $5 for residents and $6 for non-residents, with registration available through the class day. Participants should dress for outdoor activities, wear closed-toed shoes and bring water. If weather is extreme, activities will be moved indoors.
Here’s a look at the programs:
Walk Like An Engineer
Sundays, Feb. 15, March 22, and April 19 | 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Discover how engineers design amazing things by learning from nature. Led by bio-inspired engineering experts from Texas A&M and nature educators, the program explores a new exciting topic each month through creative thinking activities and hands-on exploration.
Junior Master Naturalist
Sundays, Feb. 22, March 29, and April 26 | 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Explore the native ecosystem alongside local experts, conduct nature experiments, and enjoy hands-on outdoor activities with new friends. Each class highlights different parts of the natural world to help young naturalists develop curiosity, skills, and an appreciation for their surroundings.
Check out the Recreation Connection Activity Guide for nature programs for the entire family, including Birding 101, Nature Center Star Party, Monarch March, Lick Creek Park in the Dark, and more.
For more information, contact the Gary Halter Nature Center at 979-764-6216 or parks@cstx.gov.
About the Blogger
Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 19 years, including 12 years as marketing coordinator. She also served 1.5 years as the marketing and community engagement specialist for the City of Bryan from 2023-25. A Bryan native, Nesbitt earned a bachelor’s degree in health & kinesiology from Sam Houston State.
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