escape. engage. explore.
Recurring Programs
Self-Guided
enjoy nature
Geocaching
Bonnet Springs Park has partnered with Trek Ten Trails, a program of the Friends of the Parks Foundation, to place a geocache somewhere on Park property, and we’re calling on all brave explorers to locate it! Visit the Friends of the Parks Foundation website to learn more about the exciting adventure of geocaching and access the Bonnet Springs Park fact sheet. This geocache can be found with or without a GPS unit and is located along one of our many ADA accessible trails!
step into a story
StoryWalk®
At Bonnet Springs Park, we value education and encourage discovery at all levels. With StoryWalk®, this innovative and interactive way of reading allows you to step into stories you know and love, listen at your own pace, and discover bits of nature around you- all while listening to your favorite children’s books! Take a walk around the park using our StoryWalk® signs for guidance, and awaken the storyteller in you!
Recurring Saturday Programs
First Saturday of the Month
Birding On The Boardwalk
Start each month with an opportunity to hone your birding and wildlife-sighting skills at the Blanton Family Lagoon from 10AM – 12PM. Binoculars and birding guides are provided to assist with your exploration of the plants and animals that call Bonnet Springs Park home. Each month we will focus on a different species of native bird found at BSP. Join us at the Blanton Family Lagoon Observation Deck. This event is free and open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
Second Saturday of the Month
Nuts About Nature
Join us for an exciting morning filled with hands-on activities focused on nature and the environment every second Saturday of the month. Nuts About Nature provides the opportunity for you to discover the wonders of nature through a variety of themed activities. Stop by the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center from 10AM – 12PM to join in on the fun! These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
Third Saturday of the Month
Cultural Connections
Join us on the 3rd Saturday of each month to explore connections between cultural heritage, the environment, and scientific inquiry. Each month will have new and engaging hands-on activities designed for a wide range of learners that connect cultural practices to the environment and related sciences. Stop by the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center from 10AM – 12PM to join. These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
Fourth Saturday of the Month
STEM In The Park
Stop by the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center from 10AM – 12PM on the 4th Saturday of each month to explore topics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! Participate in hands-on activities to put your STEM skills to the test! These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
Fifth Saturday of the Month
Art in Nature
Join us at the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center on the 5th Saturday of the month from 10AM – 12PM to discover how art and science converge in beautiful ways. Art in Nature encourages you to connect with nature, make scientific observations, and then create art based on your experiences. These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
Every Saturday of the Month
Classroom Drop-In
Continue your learning on our morning topic during Classroom Drop-in from 1PM – 3PM at the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center Classroom. Participate in a hands-on activity with a focus on STEM or environmental science. These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
School's Out Education Programs
PCSB Early Dismissal Days
Exploration Station
Join BSP from 2 – 4PM for a pop-up, hands-on learning experience. Exploration Stations take place in spots throughout the park so tune in for a location update. These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
These events occur from 2 – 4PM and follow the Polk County Public School’s early dismissal schedule.
PCSB Student Days Off
Adventure Days
School may be out but learning never stops at Bonnet Springs Park! Join us from 10AM – 2PM near the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center for Adventure Day programming. Join us for a unique opportunity to learn about a wide range of science topics through interactive performances, activity stations, and hands-on demonstrations. These free events are open to guests of all ages with adult supervision.
These events are on no-school weekdays and follow the Polk County Public School’s academic calendar.
Homeschool Programs
First Wednesday of the Month
Homeschool Days
Join us for Homeschool Days, happening on the first Wednesday of every month! This program is designed for homeschool groups and families as an alternative to field trips. In this drop-in style program for all ages, you will experience hands-on activities, interactive experiences, and educational opportunities aligned with Florida state standards.
Evening Programs
Sporadically
Evening Explorers
Wait until the sun begins to set and then join us at the park for a night that uses your five senses in new and exciting ways! Evening Explorer events will be scheduled periodically through the year, from 6 - 8PM and will have fun themes that are perfect for families of all ages to experience the park just like our nocturnal animal friends.