Nature Education

Connect with the natural world through exciting indoor and outdoor nature programs, interactive displays, captive animal exhibits, educational health and wellness opportunities at Red Oaks Nature Center in Madison Heights or Wint Nature Center within Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston.

A variety of programs are open to the public and appointment-based services are available to serve families, adults, children, school groups, homeschool students, scout groups, and more.

Program Information

How to Register

Call 248-858-0916 during business hours to register and pay by phone. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.

Register in person at the Red Oaks or Wint nature centers or at the parks office, 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford during regular business hours. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Red Oaks and Wint nature centers have American Sign Language interpreters available during specific programs as noted on the Nature Education Program Schedule. Please call Red Oaks Nature Center at 248-585-0100 or Wint Nature Center at 248-625-6473 for more information.

Braille is included on animal displays at the nature centers.

Need an interpreter or accommodation? Please let our staff know!

Additional Resources

Outdoor Discovery Camp

Date:

08/03/2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Immerse your child in the wonders of nature

Outdoor Discovery Camps are week-long summer day camp experiences for children ages 6-11. Available at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston, Red Oaks County Park in Madison Heights and Waterford Oaks County Park in Waterford, each week will focus on a different nature theme with unique daily outdoor activities guided by experienced staff.

Camps will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday the weeks of Aug. 3 and 10. Additional child care will be available from 3-5:30 p.m.

Depending on the camp location, campers will experience a variety of outdoor recreation experiences like kayaking, archery, golf, gardening, fishing, biking, climbing, orienteering and more.

Outdoor Discovery Camps are offered in partnership with MSU Extension.

Details:

Campers will enjoy hiking adventures, create nature-based projects, and gain a sense of belonging in the natural world
Call Chief of Nature and Outdoor Education Ashlie Smith at 248-705-7212 for more information