Nature Discovery Series

Join Hendricks County Park Naturalists for some Nature Discovery at McCloud Nature Park! Our programs not only complement each other but also allow participants to choose adventures that spark their interest and fit perfectly into their schedules. Let’s dive into the outdoors together!

For ages 7-12 ($5/participant) with a parent or guardian. This is not a drop-off program.

Advance registration required. 

Sessions last approximately 2 hours.

For assistance with registration or any questions about the Nature Discovery programs, please contact the Ray & Mary Benson Nature Center at mccloudnp@hcparks.net or at (765) 676-5437.


May: Naturalist Crossing: McCloud Horizons

Wednesday, May 20, 10 a.m.

Welcome! The naturalists invite you to explore a new “island”: McCloud Nature Park! There are many activities to complete at McCloud including fishing, bug collecting, fossil finding and more! We’ll explore each activity, just like in the classic game Animal Crossing. Don’t worry, you can leave your video games at home.

Advance registration required by May 15.


June: Pokémon Roundup!

Wednesday, June 17, 10 a.m.

Let’s catch ’em all! Join us at McCloud Nature Park to discover some real life “Pokémon” as we introduce you to our animal ambassadors. We’ll have the chance to go out and see what animals and bugs we can find in the park and even create our own Pokémon cards and a “Pokedex” of the critters we catch!

Advance registration required by June 12.


July: Fossil Hunters

Wednesday, July 15, 10 a.m.

Thousands of fossils lay on the shores of Big Walnut Creek at McCloud Nature Park! Though we are unlikely to find a T-Rex skull, we will search for Paleozoic marine fossils like crinoids and corals and learn how to identify them. Our naturalists will talk you through the ancient history of our land.

Advance registration required by July 10.


August: Seek at the Creek!

Wednesday, Aug. 12, 10 a.m.

There is so much to be found at Big Walnut Creek! Minnows, crayfish, fossils, cool rocks and more! Come out and take a dip in the creek while we explore all it has to offer. Our naturalists will have nets and catching tools, but feel free to bring your own. Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, and bring a towel and a change of clothes!

Advance registration required by Aug. 7.