What We Do

NLDC is a nature-based education and community center. Our market is regional, appealing to people who live, own second homes, and vacation in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. An expanding market is organized groups interested in nature-recreation opportunities and programs. These include groups such as the Center for Conservation Leadership and WI Land+Water Youth Conservation Camp. The Center differentiates itself by:

• The diverse, undeveloped land surrounding us, providing an unparalleled teaching environment including lake, river, mixed forest and bog.
• Broad audiences not limited to specific interests, but that share commonality in their care and connection to our Northwoods environment.
• A strong, loyal membership base; and positive relationships with community businesses, schools and Towns.

Explore our current program offerings, and you will find learning adventures for adults, families and children – welcoming guests and members alike. From guided bird walks to canoe trips; pontoon cruises to cosmic campfires; and full-moon snow-shoe hikes to adult lectures and workshops; the North Lakeland Discovery Center provides lifelong learning and enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. In addition, we provide:

• Environmental Education Programs for school groups, libraries, and resorts.
• Monitoring and Research Projects including Town Aquatic Invasive Species efforts, lake level monitoring, and WDNR shoreline bird surveys.
• Facility Rentals and Programming for conservation clubs, campers, wellness groups, weddings, birthday parties, and family reunions.
• Club and Affiliate Support for groups including the Friends of the Van Vliet Hemlocks and the Discovery Center Bird Club. These partnerships expand our reach and positively impact natural resources and wildlife.
• Drop-in Activities and Trails, including a 16-station interpretive trail, state-of-the-art bog boardwalk and learning platform, geocaching, family backpack program, and a 22-station Breeding Bird Interpretive Trail Signage Program.