Field Trips and Group Programs
Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry staff and trained volunteers will lead your group in a guided program. Programs may be held at Genesee County Park & Forest, DeWitt Recreation Area, or at your school or group's location. We offer a variety of educational and recreational activities, whether you're looking for a fun outdoor adventure or a standards-based lesson!
Programs can be adjusted to fit your students' needs and learning objectives. Our goal is to provide accessible, inquiry-based outdoor learning experiences for all students. Contact us to discuss options and availability.
Program Fee
- Programs 1 - 2 hours long: $5/student, minimum fee of $75
- Programs 2.5 - 5 hours long: $7/student, minimum fee of $100
- Outreach fee of $25 is charged in addition to program fee for classroom programs. A mileage fee per current federal mileage rate is charged for locations over 15 miles from Genesee County Park & Forest
- School staff and chaperones are included at no cost
Chaperones
There must be a minimum of one adult chaperone per 15 youth. Chaperones must be prepared to participate in activities and are responsible for the management of the group. Chaperones are included at no additional program fee.
Lunch Facilities
Groups may choose to stay at the park for lunch after their program. A pavilion reservation is included at no additional program fee. The Interpretive Center classroom may be available for lunch, by request.
Weather
Participants must be prepared for all weather! Please ensure that your students know to dress for the weather and be ready to spend time outdoors. Students should wear appropriate footwear, extra layers, and bring a water bottle when they come to the parks for their field trip. In the case of severe weather, programs may be rescheduled, cancelled, or provided with an indoor alternative at the discretion of parks staff.
Group Size
Please note that we can accommodate a maximum group size of 65 students. If your group is larger, you may need to schedule multiple days for your program.
Seasonal Programs
- Kayaking at DeWitt Recreation Area can be offered from May - October. Students must be ages 12+. Kayak, paddle, and PFD rental is included. Maximum group size is limited.
- Snowshoeing can be offered at Genesee County Park & Forest during the winter months. Child size and adult snowshoe rental is included. Maximum group size is limited.
Program Topics
Ecology Hike
All Ages, Length: 1 - 3 hours
Students hike the trails and learn about food webs, seasonal ecology, ecosystems, human impacts and more! Program emphasizes the development of observation skills and wonder at our complex natural world. Winter programs focus on wildlife signs and animal adaptations.
Insects and Honeybees
All Ages, Length: 1 hour
Students gain an understanding of life cycles, interdependence, and natural resources as they discover the fascinating world of insects. Lesson can include an insect catching activity in the meadow or a focus on honeybees with our live bee demonstration and a sweet treat.
Geocaching
All Ages, Length: 1 - 2 hours
Science, Math, Engineering, and Technology are tools we use to make a better world! Students use GPS units to find treasures and learn about the environment. Program themes range from invasive species to wildlife, by request.
Habitat Study
Grades 4 - 10, Length: 2 - 3 hours
Teams of students' study three different habitats using scientific tools to collect data, perform sampling, and explore the diversity of plants and animals in each. Students draw conclusions on the differences and similarities between the habitats based on their data and observations.
Animal Adaptations
Grades 1 - 8, Length: 1 hour
Students observe and identify how the physical traits and behaviors of animals' form adaptations that help them survive in their habitat through an interactive indoor lesson and a guided hike. Meet and greet with Ruby the Red-eared slider is optional.
Wetland Ecosystems
All Ages, Length: 1 - 3 hours
Students learn about the unique wetland ecosystems at the Genesee County Park & Forest by using nets to capture and examine the diversity of aquatic life. Concepts of life cycle, energy flow, food webs, and adaptations are covered, as well as human impacts on water quality.
Plants and Seeds
Grades 1 - 3, Length: 1 hour
Students learn about seeds and plant adaptations through hands-on demonstration with a variety of native species and a fun outdoor game. Guided hike is optional. Indoor activity to create a model plant out of recycled materials is optional.
Mammals of New York
Grades 1 - 8, Length: 1 hour
Students use skulls, pelts, and animal specimens to observe and describe adaptations and the diversity of local mammals. Guided hike is optional.
