About Eagle Bluff
Founded in 1978, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is a nonprofit dedicated to creating transformative outdoor experiences for people of all ages. Through hands-on, nature-based programs, we inspire curiosity, connection, and stewardship while helping people build meaningful relationships with the natural world and one another. Each year, more than 13,000 participants engage in our nationally accredited programs, discovering opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive outdoors.
Mission
Empowering people to care for the earth and each other.
Vision
A world where people live in harmony with the earth and each other.
Core Values
- Collaboration
- Community
- Growth
- Stewardship
- Excellence
Who We Are
Founded in 1978, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is a nonprofit dedicated to creating transformative outdoor experiences for people of all ages. Through hands-on, nature-based programs, we inspire curiosity, connection, and stewardship while helping people build meaningful relationships with the natural world and one another. Each year, more than 13,000 participants engage in our nationally accredited programs, discovering opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive outdoors.
1978
A Vision Takes Root
Founder Joe Deden returned to Minnesota inspired by outdoor education programs in Germany, where students learned through immersive experiences in nature. His vision laid the foundation for what would become Eagle Bluff.
1980
A Foundation is Formed
Originally incorporated as the Root River Hardwood Forest Interpretive Center, the organization began with a mission centered on environmental education, sustainable land management, and connecting people to the natural world.
1992
A Campus Begins to Grow
The opening of the John Schroeder Renewable Resources Building transformed Eagle Bluff into a day-use nature center and introduced the first Tree Tops High Ropes Course, creating new opportunities for experiential outdoor learning.
1997–2000
Becoming Eagle Bluff
After acquiring land for a residential campus, the organization officially became Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center and launched major expansions, including overnight facilities, the Professional Naturalist program, and the Discovery Center with classrooms, climbing walls, and wildlife education spaces.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Eagle Bluff serves more than 13,000 participants annually through programs including Outdoor School, Summer Camps, Nature Preschool, Wildlife Education, Team-Building Adventures, and year-round public programs that inspire people of all ages 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 Outdoor Experiences Matter
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:
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.
- Outdoor Education Fellowship: A year-long training program for young professionals.
- Public Events: Year-round activities, including high ropes challenges and guided outdoor explorations, for all ages.
- 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.
- Team-Building Adventures: Fun, goal-driven activities that strengthen teamwork and bonds within any group.
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:
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.
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.