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.

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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.

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Why Outdoor Learning Matters

Our outdoor learning programs are built on the idea that environmental education is about more than learning facts about

plants, animals, and ecosystems. It is about developing curiosity, confidence, connection, and a sense of responsibility for the

places we call home.

When kids spend meaningful time outdoors, they have the opportunity to move their bodies, challenge themselves, slow down, unplug, and experience the benefits of being connected to nature. They build physical skills and confidence while developing resilience, independence, creativity, and a greater awareness of their own well-being.

Our programs—from KEEN Nature Academy and Outdoor Fridays to EcoExplorers, Adventure Club, stewardship projects, overnight yurt experiences, and summer camps—give young people many different ways to explore and engage with the outdoors.

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Sometimes that means discovering a new species, conducting a field investigation, or learning how an ecosystem works. Sometimes it means hiking a new trail, building a shelter, navigating with a map and compass, sleeping under the stars, or simply sitting quietly and noticing what is happening around you. Through these experiences, young people learn that the natural world is not just something to study. It is something to experience, care for, and be part of. We believe that time outdoors can support children's physical health, mental well-being, and sense of belonging, while environmental education helps them understand the connections between people, communities, and the ecosystems that sustain us.

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Our goal is to help young people grow into curious explorers, confident outdoor adventurers, thoughtful scientists, and lifelong stewards of the natural world. Because when children know a place, love a place, and feel that they belong in a place, they are more likely to care for it.

We don't just want kids to learn about the environment.

We want them to experience it, connect with it, and discover that they have a role in caring for it.