On the first Saturday of each month, Rice Creek offers free, seasonal nature programs open to the public. The 10:30 a.m. program is offered through our Junior Naturalist series for children and their families. 1 p.m. program is open to everyone and geared at a general audience.

This March, celebrate maple season with Rice Creek Naturalist Linda Knowles as we learn about maple trees and maple syrup production. Participants will  get to help tap a tree and try the fresh sap and taste-test maple products. Remember to dress for the weather and tick prevention. Boots are highly recommended. 

• 10–11:30 a.m.: Junior Naturalist series program, designed for children and their families
• 1–2:30 p.m.: Nature Discovery series program, geared toward a general audience and open to all

Individuals seeking accommodations to attend this event should reach out to Rice Creek staff at rcfs@oswego.edu at least one week before the program start date. Any other questions can be directed to this same email address.

About the Junior Naturalist Series

Budding junior naturalists and their families are invited for monthly themed programs at Rice Creek Field Station, involving nature walks and related activities. Environmental educators, current/retired K-12 teachers, will be your guides to exploring the change of seasons, animals and plants, habitats and natural communities of Rice Creek Field Station, a 350-acre natural area and wildlife preserve operated by SUNY Oswego. Once children attend 5 programs, they will be inducted as a "Rice Creek Junior Naturalist."

Participation is free for children and their families, and all are welcome. Please note that children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Children should dress to be comfortable for about 1.5 hours spent both indoors and outdoors. Rain boots are highly encouraged in late fall, winter, and spring due to variable and muddy trail conditions.

Student Transportation

Student transportation is not available on 3/7 as our van is reserved for a class field trip.

Accessibility statement

We welcome people of all abilities to Rice Creek Field Station. Rice Creek's main building and parking areas are ADA accessible. The Purple Trail, scheduled to open in April 2026, is built to comply with U.S. Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines. 

Although we strive to create inclusive programs, not all programs will be accessible to all individuals. Please reach out to us at rcfs@oswego.edu or (315) 312-6677 to inquire about accommodations. We would be happy to work with you.