Engage & Explore

At BCNC, we have multiple outlets to explore and engage up-close-and-personal with nature. We are nestled on over 50 acres of mixed hardwood forest with trails that also connect to the adjoining city-owned Cochran Mill Park. You will find a variety of ecosystems that include a host of interesting flora and fauna, unique geological features such as creeks, exposed granite outcrops, and even a pond beside our creek. Native and non-native organisms reside at the Center including various reptiles, birds of prey, arthropods, and bats. Our staff and volunteers are passionate and dedicated to bringing accessible, meaningful environmental education to our local community.

Learning Opportunities

Click the links below or Contact Us to learn more about how to participate in one of our various learning opportunities.

FOR GROUPS

Includes schools, homeschool groups, clubs, community groups, etc.

• FIELD TRIPS - 90-minute programs in which K-12 students participate in rotations on chosen environmental topics. We also have Extended Day opportunities that can cater to your specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
• OUTREACH - We travel to you for events and programs. These are flexible to the time of the event or program, as well as still providing choice of topics.
• PROJECTS & RESEARCH - Students and Scouts are welcome to develop and implement projects and research in partnership with the center.
• VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
  Volunteers at BCNC range in age, backgrounds, and experiences. Willingness to learn and an open heart to our mission are the main qualities for a volunteer. 
• EVENT HOSTING - Reserve our space for an event (birthday parties, weddings, conventions, etc). We have an indoor exhibit room, a large wrap-around porch, boardwalk and dock, and covered outdoor pavilion overlooking the pond.​​
• COMING SOON! CAMP KITS - Themed "nature camp" resources curated to be used in classrooms and homes! Explore wherever you are through inquiry-based, cross-curricular lessons that integrate our local ecosystem and BCNC's resident animal ambassadors.​​

FOR COLLEGES & PROFESSIONALS

• INTERNSHIPS
  We welcome students in higher education to fulfill research/industry credit or experience hours. Interns can explore a wide variety of applications. Past and present interns at BCNC have pursued careers as veterinarians, educators, foresters, technicians, and more.
• ​TEAM/STAFF RETREATS​
  We are located 20 minutes south of Atlanta nestled in rural forest. Quaint natural surroundings, local hiking trails, and hands-on experiences make for a unique team-building setting.
• RESEARCH LOCATION
  We have 50+ acres comprising mixed hardwood forest, a pond, creeks in the ACF river basin, and exposed granite outcrops. We welcome those who might want to use our facilities and partner in science research or land management projects.
• COMING SOON! PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
  • ​For Teachers - Professional development opportunities to help teachers across various grade and content areas to get hands-on exploration in various topics such as cross-curricular integration of nature, socioemotional learning through nature, and inquiry-based and project-based learning.
  • For Science Professionals​ - Participate in opportunities that promote and facilitate the role of science professionals in effective science communication through collaboration, events, and activities in the local community. #scicomm 

Do you have an idea?

We have a variety of ways to help people of all ages cultivate an understanding, awareness, and appreciation of native wildlife and ecosystems. In addition to the items above we periodically host events and partner with local community members. Contact us if you are interested in partnering with Bear Creek Nature Center for education, professional development, or local environmental initiatives.

CONTACT US