About Us

Discovering the wonder and science of nature

NatureBridge provides hands-on environmental field science education for children and teens in some of the most magnificent classrooms—our national parks.

Founded as Yosemite Institute in 1971, today more than 600 schools and 30,000 kids, teens and, teachers participate each year in our national park-based overnight field science programs in Yosemite, Golden Gate, Olympic, Santa Monica Mountains, Channel Islands, and Prince William Forest.

Providing access for all students

We provide nearly $2 million annually in scholarships to more than 35% of our schools in order to reach more students from underserved communities.

Making an impact

Our field science educators teach, inspire, motivate, and engage students and are the core of our organization. Many have advanced degrees and bring with them a wide range of professional experiences, including scientific research, classroom teaching, and outdoor education.

Changing lives

We dream big because children deserve it. Help make environmental field science education a part of every child’s life.

More than 70 percent of our income is earned through our field science programs and  conference and family programs that subsidize our mission. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit we rely on generous donations to support scholarships, the development of new curricula, and program enhancements.