Nature classes are one of the most popular asks I get and I usually include them in the Top Things to do in Vegas with Kids post. Want to crack a geode, learn about bats or wols, earn your junior ranger badges or just enjoy educational and fun snow day activities? Go to the calendar here.
There are many nature classes in and around the Las Vegas valley and Henderson area for kids of all ages. From the Wetlands Park to the ranger-led programs in the Spring Valley Mountain Range, you can learn about local geography, flora and fauna, fossils and more. There are more classes around town in the Events Calendar. For a list of local volunteer park clean up days go here to Get Outdoors Nevada (it’s a fun time, too!).
Want to explore the region? A good day trip that is just two hours from town is the Calico Ghost Town, one of the most active ghost towns you can find. The Lost City Museum is just 45 minutes from town and there are also many cool hiking spots in and around the region for families with kids of all ages to explore and enjoy.
Free Las Vegas Games, Journals and Study Units
If you want to expand on your nature class with activity sheets and fun things to do at home, here are a few I recommend:
A nature walk photo and observation journal can be used anywhere you find natural curiosity! Explore the outdoors in your backyard or Mt. Charleston and record your findings with notes and photos. Also makes a great part of a nature study unit or keepsake of what you did this season.
Anytime
“Bats Fly” Grab & Go kits
Nevada Department of Wildlife
3373 Pepper Lane
Come pick up your kit during regular office hours before they are all gone. Kits are designed to highlight different wildlife species and habitats found in Nevada. Each kit includes a wildlife or nature-themed activity that can be completed at home. All materials and instructions are provided. Kits are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Tuesdays
Natural History Museum
900 Las Vegas Blvd N.
2:30-3 p.m.
Included with Museum Admission or Membership
Wetlands Explorers
Clark County Wetlands Park
10-11:30 a.m.
Ages 3-8. Fee: $5 Sign up at programs.ccwetlandspark.com
Outdoor exploration for kids! Young adventurers explore the Park and learn about plants and animals through fun activities.
Every Friday- Sunday
Crack a Geode
Springs Preserve
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
$5 members, $6 non-members with paid general admission
Young archeologists can use tools and excavating equipment to dig for buried treasures in the Fossil Dig activity. Break open a jumbo rock to discover the sparkling surprise inside, and take your treasure home!
Saturdays and Sundays
Conservation for Kids
Springs Preserve
11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Free for members or included with general admission
No reservations required.
Drop into the Sustainability Gallery Classroom on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for 15- to 30-minute fun and interactive activities for kids that explore the importance of conservation.