February 6, 2026
Did you know, every summer since 2021, we host workshops in city parks? On Tuesdays throughout the summer, we head out to Crescent Drive Park and led a bunch of workshops on various topics, all connected to nature.
In 2026, we decided to bring back some fan favourites like Tree Identification, and Nature photography. While also introducing you to new workshops, including Make a Prairie Garden, How to ID Mushrooms, Bug Identification, How to camp, into to geocaching, and junk journaling! Scroll to see what we have planned!
What is Nature Club?
For anyone new to the CPAWS world, you might be wondering, what is nature club? Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just starting to explore Manitoba’s wild places, CPAWS Manitoba’s Nature Club is here to help you connect with nature, meet new people, and experience the incredible beauty of our province.
Since 2020, more than 20,000 people have taken part in our events — from forest bathing and family hikes to outdoor skills workshops and nature photography. We offer inclusive programming for all ages and abilities because we believe nature is for everyone. Spending time in nature is known to reduce stress and enhance your sense of well being. Our goals are to provide learning opportunities, foster nature connections and give people a sense of community, with like minded people. We are a safe space to explore, and try new meaningful experiences.
“People need to be in nature in order to love nature. Our Nature Club exists to develop people’s curiosity and respect for the natural world,” said Deb, Volunteer and Nature club Coordinator. “It is important to us to reduce barriers to these opportunities and let individuals, families, and friends come together to form strong connections with the beauty and wonder of Manitoba and maybe learn something new in the process,” she said.
Why We Do Nature Club
Our Nature Club hikes are more than just a way to explore Manitoba’s beautiful landscapes—they are a step toward protecting Manitoba’s lands and waters. By spending more time in nature, we deepen our connection to the land, fostering a greater appreciation for the ecosystems we aim to conserve.
Every hike is an opportunity to witness the breathtaking diversity of our province’s lands and waters. Through these experiences, we cultivate a sense of stewardship, inspiring participants to support efforts that protect Manitoba.
“I love the variety of CPAWS events and how they are educational”, said a Nature Photography Workshop Attendee.
When people experience nature firsthand, they see its value not just as a resource, but as an irreplaceable part of our lives and identity. In 2025, 58% of attendees said CPAWS events make them feel more connected to nature.
“Enjoy the group hikes with my family to explore new areas, and different parts of places we’ve been to before,” said a Nature Workshop Attendee.
2026 Workshops
June 6-Make a Prairie Garden
In this workshop, we’ll take a walk to explore the native plants in Manitoba, learn about the diversity benefits for pollinators and our ecosystem, and pick up some seeds to start our own prairie gardens.
June 16-Nature Photography
Get up close and explore the textures and colour of your subjects throughout the park and discover expert tips for capturing incredible images on your next outdoor adventure.
June 23-How to ID Mushrooms
Join us for a workshop where we explore how to identify Manitoba mushrooms, hosted by Donna Kurt.
June 30-Bug Identification
Fantastic bugs and where to find them! A novice’s guide to the amazing insects that share our city and province with. Come join us for a hands-on opportunity to actually observe some cool bugs!
July 7-Intro to Tree Identification
Join us to explore and identifying native Manitoba plants and trees. During this workshop, participants will explore and practice using free apps, field guides, and other tools to begin their journey into tree identification.
July 14-Bird Walk
Join us for a nature club birding workshop in Crescent Drive Park with The Delta Marsh Bird Observatory. We will wander the trails looking for birds and chat about migration and how songbird banding can shed light on the mysteries of migration.
July 19-Prairie Walk and Talk
Embark on a fascinating journey through the remnant prairie grass as we collect prairie seeds. We will explore along the Headingley Grand Trunk Trail, guided by passionate Ecologist Bryana Nicolas.
July 21-Forest Bathing
Join us for a Nature Club workshop at Crescent Drive Park, as we explore mindfulness, movement, and connecting to the natural world with host Joanne Keeping
Intro to Orienteering
Dive into the exciting world of Orienteering. It’s like a treasure hunt meets a nature walk, where you use a special five-colour map to find hidden checkpoints throughout the park.
Aug 4-How to Camp
Join us to break down Camping 101 in a fun, low-stress way. We’ll cover the basics—what to pack, how to set up a tent without the struggle, and how to start a fire.
Aug 11-Intro to Geocaching
Join us to learn the basics of geocaching—where to look, what to look for, and how to track down your very first cache. Then we’ll put those skills to the test as we head out together to explore the area and find a real geocache.
Aug 18-Nature Through Theatre
Join this fun and interactive workshop for drama-based activities to help kids explore science and the environment in creative and memorable ways. While the event is kid-focused, it’s open to all ages.
Aug 25-Junk Journaling
Ever look at a ticket stub or a pretty piece of packaging and think, this is too good to toss? That’s the magic of junk journaling.
Sept 13-Prairie Walk and Talk
Embark on a fascinating journey through the remnant prairie grass as we collect prairie seeds. We will explore along the Headingley Grand Trunk Trail, guided by passionate Ecologist Bryana Nicolas.
Our Friends
A huge thank you to all our Nature Club participants for making this year possible! Your enthusiasm, participation, and thoughtful feedback have been instrumental in helping us grow and improve year after year.
We want to extend our gratitude this year’s nature club hosting partners:
- How to Build a Prairie Garden with Bryana Nicolas
- Nature Photography with Riley Martin
- How to ID Mushrooms with Donna Kurt
- Bug Identification with Alex
- Bird Walks with Delta Marsh Bird Observatory
- Prairie Walk with Bryana Nicolas
- Forest Bathing with Joanne Keeping
- Intro to Orienteering with Orienteering Manitoba
- Intro to Geocaching with Geocache Manitoba
- Nature Through Theatre with Green Kids
And of course, a shout out to the CPAWS Manitoba Team who makes these events happen; Deb, Carly, Katie, Juliana, and Elyce, and all the amazing volunteers.
How to Learn More
See all of our event listings, including free group hikes.
Learn tips and tricks for getting outside in our How To Guide.
Thanks to all of our 2025/2026 Nature Club funders for making these events happen. Thanks to The Winnipeg Foundation, Telus Community Grant, and Building Sustainable Communities Program by the Manitoba Government.
CPAWS Manitoba’s Outdoor Education Program is made possible with funding from Manitoba Habitat Conservancy (MHC) through the Conservation Trust. Established by the Province of Manitoba, the Conservation and GROW Trusts support lasting, nature-based solutions that protect wildlife habitat and help address climate change, supporting opportunities for youth to connect with and learn from nature.