KEEN Outdoor Programming

Outdoor learning experiences that connect people of all ages to the landscapes, wildlife, and stories of Central Washington.

At KEEN, we believe that meaningful connections to nature begin with curiosity. Our programs are designed to help children, families, educators, and adults slow down, observe the world around them, ask questions, and become active stewards of the landscapes we call home.

Centered at the future home of the Yakima Canyon Interpretive Center Outdoor Learning Campus, our year-round outdoor learning programs combine science, creativity, exploration, and stewardship in one of Washington's most unique ecosystems: the endangered shrub-steppe.

Our approach goes beyond teaching facts about nature. We help participants develop the habits of scientists, artists, and lifelong learners by learning to notice seasonal changes, observe wildlife, investigate local ecosystems, contribute to community science, and care for the places that sustain us

Whether you're a homeschool family, a middle school student looking for adventure, an educator seeking classroom resources, an adult interested in nature journaling or community science, or a family looking to spend more time outdoors together, KEEN offers opportunities to connect with nature throughout the year.

Our Learning Pathways

Early Exploration

Families discover nature together through free community events, seasonal programs, and outdoor adventures that encourage curiosity and play.

Youth Outdoor Learning

Our Homeschool Nature Academy, Science Fridays, EcoExplorers, EnviroSleuths Outdoor School, and summer camps provide hands-on, standards-aligned learning that builds confidence, scientific thinking, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.

Community Science & Stewardship

Participants of all ages contribute to habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, pollinator surveys, phenology tracking, and conservation projects that improve Helen McCabe Park while supporting real scientific observation and environmental stewardship.

Lifelong Learning

Adults can continue their connection to nature through the Shrub-Steppe Journal Society, Shrub-Steppe Stories Book & Walk Club, volunteer stewardship days, community science programs, and seasonal workshops.

Learning That Gives Back

Every KEEN program contributes to the long-term restoration and stewardship of Helen McCabe Park and supports the vision of the future Yakima Canyon Interpretive Center. As participants learn about the shrub-steppe ecosystem, they also help care for it through habitat restoration, volunteer service, and community science.

By learning to notice, we grow to care. By caring, we become stewards of the landscapes that define Central Washington.

Join us as we explore, learn, and steward the natural world—together.