Custom Outdoor Learning Experiences for Schools and Communities
We help school and communities build lasting connections with nature through engaging outdoor learning experienes
Maine Outdoor School was a wonderful experience. Students learned about so many different topics and their joy at being outside during science was the highlight of my week! Our instructor was very knowledgeable and had such excellent classroom management skills that I was able to just stand back and enjoy watching my students have fun while learning and then extend their excitement of science into our regular classroom instruction. I would highly recommend this program!
Janelle Jones, Airline School 3rd-5th grade teacher, February 2025
Maine Outdoor School connects learners of all ages with the natural world through hands-on, place-based outdoor learning experiences. We partner with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to design programs that inspire curiosity, build knowledge, and strengthen connections to the outdoors.
Every program is customized to your location, goals, and participants — whether that means weekly school programs, community nature events, or guided outdoor experiences.
Customized outdoor learning programs at schools and local nature areas
Standards-aligned educational programming for PreK–12 students
Guided nature hikes and freshwater paddling experiences
Professional development for teachers and educators
Community programs in partnership with local organizations
Customized Outdoor Learning Experiences
Most people know that getting outside is healthy and fun, but struggle with meaningfully bringing nature’s benefits into their personal lives, classrooms, or organizations. That’s where we come in.
Hazel Stark
Maine Outdoor School (MOS) Founder
Maine Outdoor School programs are experiential, interactive, and rooted in the natural world. Participants learn by exploring, observing, and engaging directly with nature in ways that build lasting knowledge and confidence.
Every program is customized to the location and goals of the group, creating meaningful outdoor learning experiences that are engaging, memorable, and practical.
Experiential and hands-on, with participants actively exploring nature
Customized to each group's goals, location, and interests
Rooted in science and place-based learningDesigned to be welcoming and accessible for all experience levels
Led by highly qualified Naturalist Educators and Registered Maine Guides
What Maine Outdoor School Programs Look Like
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about working with Maine Outdoor School? Here are answers to some of the most common things people ask.
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We work with schools, nonprofits, community organizations, and private groups of all ages. Our programs are designed to be flexible and can be adapted for young children through adults.
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Most programs take place outdoors at your school, a nearby trail, or a local natural area. We bring the learning experience to you whenever possible, making it easier to participate without complicated travel plans.
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Yes. Our educational programs can be aligned with academic standards and classroom learning goals. We work with educators to design programs that support what students are already learning in school.
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Program costs vary depending on the length, location, and type of program. Pricing includes program planning, travel time, instruction, and follow-up. We are happy to provide a quote based on your needs.
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Yes. We regularly work with schools and organizations to identify funding opportunities and connect with partners who support outdoor learning programs.
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Our programs are led by experienced Naturalist Educators and Registered Maine Guides. Our team members hold safety certifications and have extensive experience working with students and community groups outdoors.
Who We Work With
We design customized outdoor programs for a wide range of groups, bringing meaningful nature experiences directly to the people we serve.
Schools & Educators
We partner with schools to deliver engaging outdoor learning programs that support academic standards and student development.
Perfect for:
Classroom enrichment
Field-based learning
Program series
Teacher collaboration
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Land Trusts & Organizations
We work with land trusts and mission-aligned organizations to create meaningful outdoor programs that connect communities.
Perfect for:
Community engagement
Public programs
Partnership projects
Grant-funded initiatives
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Visitors & Families
We offer guided outdoor experiences for individuals, families, and groups who want to explore Maine’s natural world with an experienced guide.
Perfect for:
Guided nature hikes
Freshwater paddling
Small groups
Custom outings
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Experience Maine Outdoor School