Empowering Connections to Nature and Each Other
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through positive outdoor experiences. Since 1978, we have inspired individuals to care for the earth and each other. More than 16,000 visitors each year participate in our nationally accredited programs, discovering opportunities to explore, learn, and grow in nature.
Our Mission and Vision
Vision: A world where people live in harmony with the earth and each other.
Mission: To provide transformative outdoor experiences that empower individuals to care for the earth and each other.
Our Campus
Nestled in the picturesque hills of southeastern Minnesota, our 250-acre campus features restored prairies, hardwood forests, and breathtaking views of the Root River Valley. Visitors of all ages engage in hands-on adventures like high ropes challenge courses, canoeing, and wildlife encounters. These experiences foster teamwork, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to the natural world. From first-time student field trips to family bonding weekends, Eagle Bluff creates lasting memories and meaningful connections to nature.
Why Our Work Matters
In today’s screen-dominated world, children spend less than 10 minutes daily in unstructured outdoor play.1 This disconnect from nature impacts creativity, mental health, and environmental awareness. At Eagle Bluff, we combat this “nature-deficit disorder” by offering immersive experiences that inspire curiosity, reduce stress, and encourage environmental stewardship.
Our programs focus on:
- Building community, respect, and stewardship for the environment
- Teaching teamwork and problem-solving skills
- Enhancing environmental awareness and academic knowledge
- Creating positive outdoor experiences that spark a passion for nature
- Fostering curiosity and appreciation for the natural world
Our Programs
Eagle Bluff’s programs harness the transformative power of nature to inspire and educate. Designed to foster life skills, teamwork, and environmental stewardship, our offerings include:
- Nature Preschool: Nature-based early childhood education for children ages 3 to 5.
- Outdoor School: Immersive, nationally accredited half- and multi-day outdoor learning trips for K-12 students.
- Summer & Family Camps: Adventure camps for all ages that build life skills and deepen connections to nature.
- Environmental Education Fellowship: A year-long graduate program training future outdoor educators.
- Wildlife Education: Conservation-focused programming featuring animal ambassadors, including birds of prey, reptiles, amphibians, and skunks. These animals also participate in outreach programs, bringing conservation education to communities beyond our campus.
- Seasonal Events: Year-round activities, including high ropes challenges and guided outdoor explorations, for all ages.
- Team-Building Adventures: Fun, goal-driven activities that strengthen teamwork and bonds within any group.
Our Team
Eagle Bluff’s team consists of passionate educators, expert naturalists, and dedicated administrative professionals. Our collective commitment to excellence in ensures every participant benefits from a personalized, engaging, and transformative experience.
Founding and History
Children need to get back to nature…
That is the belief of our founder, Joe Deden. As a student Joe studied the Forestry program in Germany, working alongside students from schools who stayed in youth hostels. These students were learning to care for the environment by being educated about the environment in the environment. And it hit him— he had to make this same opportunity available to students in his home state of Minnesota!
Your Impact
Donors are vital to Eagle Bluff’s mission. With your support, we ensure that outdoor education is accessible to all, reaching underserved communities and empowering future environmental leaders. Together, we create thriving communities and protect our planet for generations to come.
Your continued generosity helped thousands of participants experience the transformative power of nature. Your contributions fuel our mission and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
