What’s Happening
Lo que está sucediendo
Help out, learn, build community and have fun!
¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!
Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.
Looking for something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!
El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.
¿Buscas algo especial para un grupo? Contacta directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada, así que contacta con el socio para obtener la información más actualizada. ¡Salgamos!
Sort Event List by:
Art in Nature | Community Event | Elders | Healing | Hiking | Park Updates | Plants | Pollinators | Recreation | Road Trips | Virtual Events | Volunteering | Water Fun | Wildlife | Workshops | Youth |
Click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information.
NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.
2026 SW WA Youth Photo Contest with Vancouver Audubon
Nature Photography both Urban and Wild Content 2026!
Vancouver Audubon Society (VAS), HD Aluminum Prints, and Columbia Credit Union are teaming up to sponsor the 2026 Youth Nature Photo Contest. In this photo contest’s 11 year history, this will be the first time photographs of nature will not be limited to Steigerwald Lake NWR, except in the Steigerwald category. VAS wishes to expand the boundaries where contest photos can be taken and invite a wider diversity of participants. Three of the four categories can be of nature found within the three counties VAS serves (Clark, Klickitat & Skamania).Youth Nature Photo Contest
Youth, ages 8-18 years of age, are invited to submit up to five photos of nature to be judged and be eligible for up to three cash prizes, 12″ by 18″ prints of their photos, and a free family membership to Vancouver Audubon Society (VAS). Photos must have been shot during the time period from June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026 and within the boundaries of Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat Counties.
Division Categories and Prizes:
Participants can enter a total of 5 JPEG formatted images to any of the following 4 categories:
Steigerwald Lake NWR Nature – This category is for nature photos taken on trails at Steigerwald Lake NWR. Photos can include wildlife, beautiful landscapes, or people enjoying nature.
Wildlife, Plants, & Nature – This category showcases native wildlife (birds, mammals, fish, insects, or spiders for example), plants, fungi, and other life found in Clark, Klickitat, and Skamania Counties. Photos can be taken in backyards, parks, or wild areas like Ridgefield NWR, Salmon Creek, or Burnt Bridge Creek Greenways.
People in Nature – This category highlights how people interact with nature. It’s not about portraits of people posing, but capturing candid moments of people enjoying and engaging with the natural world in positive ways. Photos can be taken anywhere people appreciate nature in Clark, Klickitat, and Skamania Counties.
Smartphone Nature – This category is for photos taken with smartphones or tablets of any nature in Clark, Klickitat, and Skamania Counties. It includes photos suitable for all the other categories. If the photo was taken at Steigerwald, then the rules of Steigerwald Lake NWR Nature category apply here too.
Winning Photos: Winners will be eligible for a maximum of three (3) cash prizes per contest year including “people’s choice” awards. If a participant wins more than three cash prizes, they will be awarded the three highest in total value, including the prints.
1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes for each category include a high quality 12×18” metal print of the photos that will be displayed at various locations around Clark County for the remainder of the year. Additional prizes include:
1st – $200 cash
2nd – $100 cash
3rd – $50 cash
Honorable Mention (2 in each category) – Large print 12×18″ print of photo on professional paper
People’s choice award in each category – $100. There are no restrictions for how participants muster votes for their photo, except each person is only allowed to vote once. Bring you best social media connection skills!
Learn more about the contest requirements and submission information HERE.
Vancouver Audubon Society's CAMERADERIE Youth Birding - Field Trip
Washougal River Greenway Trail
Washougal River Greenway Trail, Camas, WA 98607, USA
Young Birders brings together youth grade 6 through grade 12 or between the ages of 10-18 who have an interest in birding and conservation. Our group has combined efforts to reach more youth by creating a wildlife photography group called CAMERADERIE. This idea came from conversations with talented teen winners of our Youth Nature Photo Contest. They had participated in both Vancouver Audubon’s guided bird walks and the photo contest and realized the benefits of doing so. They have taken leadership and will be present for the meetings.
Monthly guided walks will allow participants to both learn how to see and identify wildlife and then how to successfully photograph them. We will try to schedule walk times most convenient to youth. An outcome of the walks will be youth having photographs. An online Zoom meeting will be about one week later so participants can share their best photos and get and give feedback to each other.
Photo by Ken Pitts of Cameraderie meeting at Salmon Creek Greenway in September.
See the schedule for locations, times, and how to sign up. Space on the nature walks will be limited to 15 youth and their parents or guardians. Please sign up for each outdoor walk. A Vancouver Audubon volunteer will contact you to confirm, or possibly put you on a waiting list if the limit has been reached.
If you have further question, or want to talk more about the group, please contact Shaunak Deshpande at this email: cameraderie@vancouveraudubon.org.
Deciduous Tree Communities Nature Day at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Nature Day exploring deciduous trees at Columbia Springs.
A day of hands-on science and nature experiences exploring the properties of deciduous trees!
This event is designed to be engaging for people of all ages – from preschool age kids to elementary, middle, and high school students, and adults. All ages and backgrounds are welcome. Just bring your curiosity and be prepared for some nature fun!
Drop by when it works for you. No RSVP required!
Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Accessibility: Columbia Springs has ADA parking and paved pathways throughout. Learn more about accessible accommodations at https://www.columbiasprings.org/visit/
Questions? Email events@columbiasprings.org
Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join the staff for a Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or how the hatchery works? What temperature do you think the springwater is as it comes out of the ground? Find the answers to these questions and more on a tour of our unique historic hatchery!
Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, or expert volunteer, as they trace the path of spring water through our unique site, and learn about the trout and salmon that grow up here along the way.
While all ages are welcome, tour content may be most engaging for older kids and adults.
Let us know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Accessibility: Columbia Springs has ADA parking and paved pathways throughout. Learn more about accessible accommodations at https://www.columbiasprings.org/visit/
Questions? Email apryl@columbiasprings.org
Spring Beak Nature Walk
Spring break is here, and the birds are singing! Join us at the Water Center in search of spring “beaks.” As the days grow longer, the wetlands come alive with birdsong. Nests are taking shape, bright feathers are flashing through the trees, and the busy season for baby birds is just about to begin.
It’s the perfect spring break outing for families with kids ages 6 and up. All youth need to be accompanied by an adult. Binoculars will be available to borrow.
Advanced registration required. Sign up today!
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
Klineline Kids Fishing Derby
The Klineline Kids Fishing Derby think our fishing event impacts the lives of the children we serve.
We see it in their happy faces; we hear from children and parents that return a second year. We see success in increasing numbers of children that participate each year, as well as increasing numbers of volunteers and sponsors who contribute in some way to make this community event a success. In fact, some of our members have been volunteering here for the last 30 years!
EACH TIME SLOT IS FOR 45 MINUTES. Kids may fish until their time is up, or they catch their limit of two (2) fish, whichever comes first.
MAIL IN REGISTRATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED BY APRIL 1, 2026
Registration goes live in February, register HERE
Klineline Kids Fishing Nonprofit was formed for the charitable purpose of assisting children, including low-income, under-privileged and disabled children to help themselves learn how to be more sustainable by being equipped and educated in the fundamentals of fishing. The Klineline Kids Fishing Nonprofit will facilitate further education on how to be safe while on or around bodies of water.
Klineline Kids Fishing Nonprofit organization seeks to create the stewards of our future fisheries by introducing the youth of our community to the joys and thrills of fishing as both an individual and family activity, while also becoming more aware of our amazing outdoor environment and natural resources.
For almost 40 years various organizations have hosted a kids and family fishing event at Klineline Pond. And for the past 9 years the Klineline Kids Fishing Nonprofit organization, its sponsors and volunteers, has organized and led the event and show local youth how to bait a hook, make a cast, land a fish, clean the catch and learn about our natural resources in an effort to engage today’s youth in fishing, one of America’s greatest past-times. Klineline Kids Fishing Non-profit organization believes that fishing is a skill that is meant not to be learned, but to be shared, passed on from generation to generation by those that love the sport and the great outdoors. In addition, the event features educational sessions hosted by our partners like Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, Clark Public Utilities, US Fish & Wildlife, Columbia Springs, Fire District 6, and sport fishing groups to help our youth learn more about fishing, our natural environment and to experience the joy of playing outdoors. In addition to the annual Klineline Kids Fishing event, Klineline Kids Fishing Non-profit provides fishing rods and reels to several other area kids fishing programs, including:
Columbia Springs Kids Fishing Festival
Fort Vancouver Kids Fishing
“I’m Hooked” @ Horseshoe Lake
Merwin Special Kids Fishing
Lake Merwin Kids Fishing
Streeters Resort @ Silver Lake
Woodland Moose Lodge @ Horseshoe Lake
Kids Fishing Festival with Columbia Springs
More information will be posted soon here: https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/
Camp Hope of SW WA - Summer Camps for kids
Outdoor Discovery Camps
Ages 9-17
Childhood has moved indoors, and youth today spend an average of 50 hours per week on a screen and less than 10 minutes a day outdoors. Meanwhile, childhood depression is on the rise. At Camp Hope we reverse those trends with outdoor education, adventure and fun.
Adventurous Learners: Spending time in nature is proven to improve children’s academic performance, focus, and behavior. Children also improve social skills as they explore the outdoors together. Our camps strive to inspire adventurous learning, and in turn, build confident leaders as they try new things and face their fears.
Camp Hope of SW Washington: Helping Youth Thrive
with Outdoor Education, Adventure and Fun
Save these DATES for 2026 Summer Camps:
June 17 - 19
July 6 - 8
August 17 - 21
Sign up for our newsletter to get updates and visit the website: www.camphope-wa.org/camps
Forest Walk at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Forest Walk at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered what wildlife call Columbia Springs or what types of native plants you can find along the trails? Find the answers to these questions and more on a guided forest walk!
Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, or expert volunteer, as they lead you on a walk on one of our trails to discover the magic of our site.
Forest walks are great for all ages!
Please note that our trails are not stroller friendly.
Let Columbia Springs staff know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
We will meet at 3:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!
Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.
Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.
For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.
WHERE: Science and Learning Center at Coldwater
COST: Sliding Scale
ACCOMMODATIONS: Bring your own tent or RV
MEALS: Provided
Camp Hope of SW WA - Summer Camps for kids
Outdoor Discovery Camps
Ages 9-17
Childhood has moved indoors, and youth today spend an average of 50 hours per week on a screen and less than 10 minutes a day outdoors. Meanwhile, childhood depression is on the rise. At Camp Hope we reverse those trends with outdoor education, adventure and fun.
Adventurous Learners: Spending time in nature is proven to improve children’s academic performance, focus, and behavior. Children also improve social skills as they explore the outdoors together. Our camps strive to inspire adventurous learning, and in turn, build confident leaders as they try new things and face their fears.
Camp Hope of SW Washington: Helping Youth Thrive
with Outdoor Education, Adventure and Fun
Save these DATES for 2026 Summer Camps:
July 6 - 8
August 17 - 21
Sign up for our newsletter to get updates and visit the website: www.camphope-wa.org/camps
Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!
Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.
Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.
For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.
WHERE: Science and Learning Center at Coldwater
COST: Sliding Scale
ACCOMMODATIONS: Bring your own tent or RV
MEALS: Provided
Family Adventure Camp on Mt. St. Helen's with MSHI
Explore the volcanic landscape of Mount St. Helens with the whole family!
Family Adventure Camp promises to ignite a sense of wonder about this majestic mountain while instilling a newfound confidence in outdoor exploration. Traverse scenic trails, engage in playful activities, unleash your creativity through art, and revel in hands-on experiences that promise to leave lasting memories. Tailored for both the young and the young at heart, our activities encourage teamwork and bonding across generations. So, bring your camping gear, lace up your boots and join us for three unforgettable days to uncover the wonders of the Pacific Northwest's most dynamic volcano! All meals provided.
Is the date you want sold out? Check out the other family adventure camp dates, add your name to our events waitlist, or check out base camp July 24-26.
For detailed information, visit our family adventure camp program description.
WHERE: Science and Learning Center at Coldwater
COST: Sliding Scale
ACCOMMODATIONS: Bring your own tent or RV
MEALS: Provided
Camp Hope of SW WA - Summer Camps for kids
Outdoor Discovery Camps
Ages 9-17
Childhood has moved indoors, and youth today spend an average of 50 hours per week on a screen and less than 10 minutes a day outdoors. Meanwhile, childhood depression is on the rise. At Camp Hope we reverse those trends with outdoor education, adventure and fun.
Adventurous Learners: Spending time in nature is proven to improve children’s academic performance, focus, and behavior. Children also improve social skills as they explore the outdoors together. Our camps strive to inspire adventurous learning, and in turn, build confident leaders as they try new things and face their fears.
Camp Hope of SW Washington: Helping Youth Thrive
with Outdoor Education, Adventure and Fun
Save these DATES for 2026 Summer Camps:
August 17 - 21
Sign up for our newsletter to get updates and visit the website: www.camphope-wa.org/camps
Winter Wildlife Nature Day at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Nature Day exploring winter wildlife at Columbia Springs.
A day of hands-on science and nature experiences exploring how wildlife survive and thrive during the winter!
Drop by when it works for you. No RSVP required!
This event is designed to be engaging for people of all ages – from preschool age kids to elementary, middle, and high school students, and adults. All ages and backgrounds are welcome. Just bring your curiosity and be prepared for some nature fun!
Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Accessibility: Columbia Springs has ADA parking and paved pathways throughout. Learn more about accessible accommodations at https://www.columbiasprings.org/visit/
Columbia Springs - Family-Friendly 1/2 Day Trail Maintenance work party with WTA
Come spend the morning sprucing up the trails at this gem of an education center! There will be a variety of tasks appropriate for children (ages 7+) and adults.
The Columbia Springs Environmental Education Center has three main trails that range from 1/16 of a mile long, to 1/3 of a mile. It is is a delightful little park that houses a fish hatchery (complete with feeding pond), a small greenspace, and three little trails that are friendly to even the littlest hikers.
Project Description: Our main goal here is to maintain several small loop trails at the Columbia Springs Education Center. There will be a variety of tasks including using digging tools to maintain the walking surface of the trail, using cutting tools to remove vegetation from the trail, spreading gravel at several boardwalk approaches, or simply hand-pulling invasive plants from near the trail. If you have a question about whether this would be fun for you or a child you would like to bring with you, please contact SW Regional Coordinator stasia honnold at shonnold@wta.org
Hiking Information: Total hike is no more than 1.5 miles on flat terrain. Not all trails are ADA accessible and include dirt surfacing.
Schedule:
9:00 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine
Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day
12:00 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead
We will not take an official lunch break, but snack breaks are highly encouraged!
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.
What it Takes to Do This Work Party:
Bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need.
Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain
Recommended for ages 7 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18.
What to Wear - Required:
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Work gloves
Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
Long pants
Recommended:
Sturdy work or hiking boots
Long sleeved shirt
A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.
What to Bring:
Snacks and plenty of water
Rain jacket and pants
Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
A pack to carry your personal gear
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
More Information:
WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367
Registration Required: Join Work Party
