Discover the secret lives of bugs who live in and around Dragonfly Pond.

Give your kids a summer of outdoor adventure and learning with FREE educational programs from the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area! Our popular Jr. Rangers program (ages 5-11) is back in both Salida and Buena Vista, offering engaging activities that help kids connect with nature. For our youngest park enthusiasts, Tots on Fridays (ages 2-4) provides a special interactive experience in Salida – just remember, an adult needs to be present for these nature-filled Fridays! All programs are free, educational, and perfect for fostering a love for the outdoors.  Don't miss out!  Spaces are limited, so please be sure to register in order to secure your spot.

Join Upper Arkansas O.U.T. (Outdoor Understanding for Teachers), formerly known as T.E.N., for 3 ½ days exploring the Upper Arkansas watershed. The class will focus on the importance of watersheds to nature and the people in Colorado. Topics will include water & natural resources management, aquatic wildlife such as beavers and fish, soil connections, and permaculture. We will also connect nature and water to art and mindfulness. Participants will visit local sites in the Upper Arkansas Valley and be exposed to a variety of hands-on activities that apply to science, social studies, math, history, art, and language arts. The goal of O.U.T. (Outdoor Understanding for Teachers) is to help teachers promote student understanding and appreciation of science and the natural environment through local, field-oriented education opportunities in the schools and in-school curriculum.  This event is taking place at various locations including Twin Lakes, Trout Creek Pass,  Hutchinson Ranch, and Coaldale.

Explore outside using all of your senses.

Give your kids a summer of outdoor adventure and learning with FREE educational programs from the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area! Our popular Jr. Rangers program (ages 5-11) is back in both Salida and Buena Vista, offering engaging activities that help kids connect with nature. For our youngest park enthusiasts, Tots on Fridays (ages 2-4) provides a special interactive experience in Salida – just remember, an adult needs to be present for these nature-filled Fridays! All programs are free, educational, and perfect for fostering a love for the outdoors.  Don't miss out!  Spaces are limited, so please be sure to register in order to secure your spot.

Look up and learn about what you can see at night in the sky.

Learn how to fly fish! All equipment is provided.

Learn how to hike safely and have a good time while doing all of the activities required to become a Jr. Ranger.

Learn what to do if you get lost while spending time outside. Great outdoor safety tips for all ages!