Trees Indiana
At Trees Indiana, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative wonder that comes from connecting with the natural world. Since our founding in 2006, we have been dedicated to making that connection possible — especially for youth who might not otherwise have access to nature-rich spaces.
Trees Indiana’s Nature Explore Classroom has been serving students since 2014. Each year, hundreds of children visit this outdoor learning environment, using the natural world as a “window on the world” to build awareness, nurture responsibility, and develop confidence and leadership skills.
From the moment visitors arrive, the space invites exploration.
Crossing a small bridge at the entrance, students follow a winding path that leads to a welcoming gathering area. Native trees line the way, opening to a wide grassy hill perfect for running, jumping, and joyful rolling. A vibrant butterfly garden greets students just outside the woodland entrance — a gentle introduction to the discoveries that await.
Inside the woods, meandering paths connect thoughtfully designed activity areas devoted to climbing, building, natural art, music and movement, messy materials, and a discovery lane. Each space offers open-ended experiences that ignite imagination. Using only natural materials, children create “hamburgers” from leaves and dandelions or engineer a “bridge to New York” from sticks, hickory nuts, and bark gathered from the forest floor.
Teachers consistently remark on the power of this kinesthetic, hands-on learning environment. Students who are often quiet in the classroom come alive outdoors — collaborating, problem-solving, and expressing themselves with confidence. It is this transformation that keeps educators returning year after year.
By integrating experiential learning with meaningful connections to nature — and by leveraging strong community partnerships — Trees Indiana serves as a catalyst for youth development and positive environmental stewardship in urban communities.
