Outdoor Education and Recreation

About

The Outdoor Education and Recreation program’s purpose is to foster appreciation for nature through education, access and experiences in the outdoors. We provide conservation education and adventure recreation programs for our residents and surrounding communities.

Contact

For general inquiries, reach out to:
OutdoorEducation@columbus.gov
614-645-3380

Susan Sedlacko – Nature Programs Administrative Manager
SKSedlacko@columbus.gov

Sydney Duvall – Nature Programs Developer (Outdoor Recreation)
SADuvall@Columbus.gov 

Alex Miu – Nature Programs Developer (Outdoor Recreation)
AFMiu@columbus.gov

McKnight Outdoor Education Center

The McKnight Outdoor Education Center is a Net Zero facility and is the primary home for the Outdoor Education and Recreation program. Explore more about the McKnight Outdoor Education Center.

 

Upcoming Events

View Calendar

Programs

Archery

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Birding

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Canoeing

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Fishing

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Hiking

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Other Programming

Summer Camp

Spend the summer outside canoeing, creeking, fishing and building forts. Each week will have a unique theme structured around classic camp activities. Come enjoy camp outside!

Explore the Outdoor Recreation summer camps.

School Programs

Located on the west bank of the Scioto River at Griggs Reservoir, the McKnight Outdoor Education Center offers conservation education and adventure recreation programs through Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. Nature trails, caves, creeks and the Scioto River provide the perfect outdoor experience for your students to explore and discover the many wonders of nature.

Learn more about our school programs.

School Field Trip Information and Request Form

LIT Program 

(Previously called CIT Program)

Columbus Recreation and Parks Department’s Outdoor Recreation program is seeking volunteers, ages 13-17 for the Leader in Training (LIT) program. LITs work alongside summer day camp counselors to teach campers, play games, hike, fish, canoe and more. The LIT program is a great way to build confidence and gain experience in leadership skills. Teens must be motivated, enthusiastic, creative and willing to work with children in the outdoors.

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