Star Stories

Friday, March 28, 6:30-8:30pm

Join us for an evening of stars. We will learn about astronomy and the stories people have put into the stars over the millenia. We will come up with our own stories for the stars as well as act out some of the Greek myths tied to the constellations while sitting by a campfire. This is a family friendly program designed for ages 5+.

Cost: $5 per person

Speaker: Kate is a third year Fellow at Dunes Learning Center. One of her favorite parts of programs is leading night hikes, and she likes to focus them on the stars whenever possible.


Herpetology Hike: Frogs, Salamanders, and Turtles, oh my!

Saturday, April 5, 9am-12pm

Search for reptiles and amphibians, learn about their hidden lives, and familiarize yourself with some of Indiana Dunes National Park's most exciting critters. This introduction to the world of herpetology includes an interpretive talk on Reptiles and Amphibians led by Alex “Burdy” Burdsall and a hands-on "herping" hike within the National Park. This session is family-oriented and geared for ages 10+.

Families will take home a goodie bag with a guide to local reptiles and amphibians, as well as information on protecting and creating herp habitat in your community.

Speaker: Alex “Burdy” Burdsall is a third year Fellow at Dunes Learning Center. He loves to hike and particularly loves herping!


Forest Bathing

Sunday, May 18, 1-4pm

Enjoy a fully guided practice in the art of Shinrin~Yoku (Forest Bathing) with Cynthia Smith. Forest Bathing has been proven to provide many benefits for the spirit, mind, and body. This program is an invitation to be in nature that brings one closer to the “nurture of nature.”  Upon registration, a list will be provided to help you prepare for your experience. Hot tea will be provided.

Cynthia Smith is an experienced Forest Bathing guide. She is also a meditation and restorative yoga teacher of 26 years.  In her love of nature, she finds sanctuary and enjoys sharing this deep and honored connection with others.


Arts activities made possible by the Indiana Arts Commission, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.



Dunes Learning Center events are supported by our 2025 Corporate Event Sponsors, including BP America, Cleveland Cliffs, Franklin Pest Solutions, Friends of Indiana Dunes, Keramida Inc., Mark J. Mihalo Family Dentistry, NIPSCO, Shinka Sustainability Consultants, and Wickcraft Boardwalks.