A Natural Destination for Discovery

Enriching lives and inspiring an ethic of care for Wisconsin's Northwoods through the facilitation of connections among people, nature and community.

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The current Nature Nook is now CLOSED to allow us to transition into the new building. Thank you for your patience as we work towards finalizing the new nature center!

Discovery Hall featuring new interactive nature center, welcome center, classrooms, and more all scheduled to open May 2023!

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Calendar of Events

The North Lakeland Discovery Center is a destination and resource for lifelong learning and outdoor recreation. Our active and engaging site enables us to provide creative and cutting edge programs for a diverse audience.

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Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers play an important and invaluable role at the Discovery Center. We offer lots of different and fun ways for our volunteers to increase their knowledge in environmental sciences and share their expertise and experiences with the public. Please check out our list of volunteer opportunities that range from trail maintenance to assisting with children's and adult educational programs.

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Facility Rentals

Picture a serene lakeside setting in Vilas County's Manitowish Waters that can accommodate your group of up to 100 for an overnight stay, and much more for your big event on the grounds.

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Become a Member

The North Lakeland Discovery Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit environmental education center in northern Wisconsin dedicated to connecting people to nature. All membership levels include discounts on programs, free onsite use of watercraft and snowshoes, newsletter and program guides.

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Citizen Science

Take part in scientific research. One of the best ways to learn about something is to study it. By helping us in our Citizen-Based Monitoring programs, not only do you provide valuable data to agencies all around the state but you get to experience the world in new ways, explore new areas of the Northwoods, and even learn about your own backyard.

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Schools & Youth Groups

The Discovery Center has earned a reputation as one of the premier education centers in Wisconsin. Our naturalists are deservedly well-known for their enthusiastic program delivery and hands-on learning opportunities.

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Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are some of the largest threats to the health of our Northwoods lakes. Invasive species are plants, animals, or pathogens introduced to an area where they do not naturally occur.

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Trails Report

The latest conditions for our Skiing, Snowshoeing, hiking and Biking trails.

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- Online Video Learning -

Discover At Home

Our new FREE video series, featuring volunteer and facility spotlights and interesting things going on at the Discovery Center.

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Discover On Demand

Discover on Demand is a once per week hour-long online lecture from one of our program staff that will run until the "Safer at Home" order ends.

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