Our nature-based education site is a 10-acre outdoor oasis on the shores of the East Water (American River). The outdoor classroom amphitheater are used as an outdoor performance seating area with plenty of safe seating arrangements during student shows. Outdoor seating is an integral part of taking learning outside and, besides being used as a performance area, it is also a place for collective storytelling, fireside chats, nature observations, a casual socializing space, an extension of our outdoor classroom, and a safe space to host extracurricular teachers for specialty classes. The space is wheelchair accessible with nearby restrooms for convenience.
Children allow their creative expression to flow in this beautiful, natural playspace as they perform on stage with the outdoors as the ideal backdrop for their developing confidence and creativity. Be sure to join us at Show Time!
Nature-based classroom
Recently built covered seating structures provide both shade and shelter and plenty of other naturally shaded seating areas are sprinkled throughout the nature study area at River Bend. These tables are used for any seated work during the school day.
When we’re not on the move conducting field studies, hiking the river-hugging trails, fishing at the river, performing in the amphitheater, studying pond ecology, nature journaling in sweet solitude or biking the extensive bike path, we set up shop at the numerous picnic tables along the way. We bring our learning materials with us as we create, learn, play and grow together.
Additional, permanent restrooms are located very close to our main education sites. Other restroom facilities are nearby while on the hiking trails.
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
Restrooms
Plenty of well kept restrooms are available throughout the outdoor education site. In 2020, permanent restrooms with running water for hand washing stations were installed and are wheelchair accessible. Drinking fountains for refilling reusable water bottles are located outside of the restrooms.
Study benches for writing and other desk work line the nature study area and clipboards are carried when in the field. Each bench is sanitized and covered prior to use.
Nature encounters
We treasure our wild classmates! The daily wild sightings on the trails and at our outdoor classroom becomes a beloved part of our day and an integral motivation for deepening our life science studies and nature appreciation. We learn to peacefully and respectfully coexist with our wild friends. We are so grateful that this is our classroom!
Black Crown collective
A Perigee Microschool at River Bend