6th Grade Trailblazers
Free Household Membership for all incoming 6th graders!
Starting middle school is a big moment, and nature can make it easier, calmer, and more fun. Time outdoors helps 6th graders reduce stress, boost mood and focus, build social skills, and even improve academic success.
That’s why the Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) is launching a first-of-its-kind pilot program: a free 6th Grade Trailblazer Membership for all incoming 6th graders in Kalamazoo, Portage, Parchment, and Plainwell Public Schools for the 2026-27 school year. This full household membership invites families to unplug, explore, and recharge together, screen-free, during this important transition year.
Sign up June 1–August 7
Membership runs September 1, 2026–September 1, 2027.
Benefits include:
- Free admission to KNC for duration of membership
- Member discounts on programs, events, and camps
- Free entry in June, 2027 to Air Zoo, Binder Park Zoo, Gilmore Car Museum, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and KNC as part of the Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership exchange!
Questions? Please contact (269) 381-1574 ext. 32 or email .
This form is currently closed for submissions.
Workshops & Events
Learn about the ancient tradition of wreath making. Paint a gourd birdhouse to bring home for a feathered friend. Head to the forest to gather materials for a hand-crafted meal using foraged delicacies.
At KNC, we invite people of all ages to reconnect with the natural world and rediscover your creative voice, no matter your experience level. Check out the calendar for a variety of upcoming programs!
KNC Camp
Play outside with us while we step into fun adventures! Splash around in Nature’s Playground, explore the gravel pits and horse around with friends. Older campers will explore onsite at the Kalamazoo Nature Center with the chance for offsite adventures, team-building challenges, and more.
Join us for Camp all year long with Summer Camps, Spring and Winter Break Camps, and Schools Out Day Camps!