Nature and survival programs
Nature and survival programs
Learn about the wonders of nature in Calgary’s parks and open spaces. Our outdoor programs introduce participants to birdwatching, hiking, outdoor survival skills, and plant and animal identification. The skills learned will prepare you for a lifetime of enjoying the outdoors anywhere.
Benefits of nature and survival programs
- Independence
- Resiliency
- Curiosity
- Communication, problem solving and decision-making skills
- Good stewardship habits
- Ecoliteracy
- Pride in our parks and natural spaces
- A sense of identity and community
Fall registration dates
Due to repair closures and annual maintenance and cleaning, registration has been split into two waves. Facilities currently closed for repairs:
- Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
- Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
- Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre
- Wave 1 - Programs, classes and lessons begin in September.
- Wave 2 - Programs, classes and lessons begin in October but could change based on reopening dates.
- 6 a.m. — Online (virtual waiting room opens at 5:30 a.m.)
- 8:30 a.m. — By calling the Customer Service Centre at 403-268-3800 (option 1)
- During business hours — At any City-operated Aquatic & Recreation or Arts facility
Types of nature and survival programs
You can register online or by calling 403-268-3800.
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Out birdwatching courses will introduce you to some of the 270+ species of birds that call Calgary home. They include visits to some of Calgary’s natural areas and are led by birding experts.
Ages: 7+ years
Prerequisite: None
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You and your toddler will explore nature together through a variety of outdoor walks, play and songs. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 1 –3 years + adult
Prerequisite: None
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In this single class, kids will be introduced to a variety of survival skills, nature and outdoor activities. They will enjoy activities like fire and shelter building, s'more making and archery. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 5 -12 years
Prerequisite: None
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Kids will take part in a variety of outdoor fall nature activities and survival skills. They will enjoy activities like fire and shelter building, s'more making and archery. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 5 -12 years
Prerequisite: None
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Campers will be introduced to a variety of nature education and survival skills. Camp activities can include shelter and fire building, s'more making, animal track identification and sports. This program is held outdoors. All supplies and equipment are provided.
Age: 5 -12 years
Prerequisite: None
About our nature and survival program Instructors
Staff are certified in Intermediate First Aid and CPR, High Five® Principles of Healthy Child Development, and receive additional City of Calgary training.
What are nature and survival programs like?
Filled with activities that will help your child learn more about themselves, others and the world around them. Depending on the program, your child can expect to:
- Explore in an outdoor setting.
- Learn about natural habitats.
- Identify plant and animal species.
- Develop skills in things like, birdwatching, shelter building, map reading, orienteering, fire building and archery.
Programs are typically 2 hours long.
Come prepared
- A refillable plastic or metal water bottle.
- Any necessary medication or medical equipment (such as an epi-pen).
- A light snack (nut free).
- A backpack/bag.
- Weather-appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, boots, footwear, sweater/jacket, etc.
