Science, Exploration, and Hands-On Experiences
Next Generation Science Standards Hands-On Activities
On- & Off-Campus adventures to Engage StudentsNext Generation Science Standards Hands-On Activities
Astronomy
Nighttime Stargazing Adventure
At Sly Park, the night sky unfolds in all its splendor, revealing a universe of wonders rarely seen from city lights. In the clear, crisp air of the mountains, Sly Park offers breathtaking views of celestial bodies—brilliant stars, shimmering galaxies, and ethereal nebulae, each waiting to tell their story. Through one of our powerful telescopes, students can journey light-years away to witness the mysteries of space, learning about the Moon’s rugged surface and the science behind twinkling stars. Astronomy night becomes an unforgettable voyage into the cosmos!
Students attending an overnight program at Sly Park will have an opportunity, if they choose, to participate in Astronomy Night Activities on clear sky nights.
The Sly Park observatory's telescopes include an 11" Celestron, a 17 1/2 " Newtonian, two 8" Newtonians and six 6" reflectors, all of which offer breath-taking views of the heavens. During the daytime, sunspots and solar prominences can be viewed with our hydrogen alpha filter.
Daytime Space Exploration in Sly Park’s Starlab Planetarium
All students in our 4 & 5 Day Programs will get the opportunity to step into our outdoor Starlab Planetarium, where the wonders of the cosmos unfold before your eyes. As the dome darkens and the stars begin to twinkle, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of celestial marvels and ancient stories.
The Sly Park Environmental Education Center’s planetarium offers an engaging and immersive experience that aligns with California’s Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). It supports and enhances students’ understanding of key astronomical concepts, directly addressing NGSS standards with lessons about:
- Earth’s place in the universe. Students observe and investigate patterns of seasonal changes in the night sky, aligning with standards that focus on celestial movements and Earth-space relationships.
- Scale and proportion. The planetarium provides a unique model to explore the concept of scale in the universe, helping students grasp the vast distances and sizes involved in astronomical studies.
- Patterns and cycles. Students can identify and analyze patterns in celestial objects’ behavior over time by observing the movement of stars, planets, and constellations.
- Systems and system models. The planetarium serves as a model of the night sky, allowing students to understand how different celestial bodies interact within the larger system of the universe.
- The Starlab planetarium projects the night sky indoors where students learn about constellations, legends from many different cultures, and concepts that help them understand astronomy.
Stargazing Events
Sign up for the McDonald Observatory's SkyTips newsletter to receive stargazing highlights, upcoming StarDate radio program descriptions, and other McDonald Observatory news.
Astronomy Links
Ecology
Sly Park Creek Ecology - Hike
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of creek ecology at Sly Park. Our hands-on macro-invertebrate investigation activity transforms students into young scientists as they explore the intricate web of life in riparian ecosystems and their watersheds.
Students will experience scientific exploration, sampling techniques, inquiry-based learning, ecosystem health, and the human impact on the natural environment. Students will learn valuable scientific skills and a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things in our waterways. They’ll leave with a newfound understanding of creek ecosystems and their vital role in our environment.
Forest & Fire Ecology
Students engage in an immersive exploration of riparian and mixed conifer forest ecosystems within our forest ecology program. Our trails traverse areas that have undergone varying levels of fire exposure, fire suppression, and fuel management, offering a comprehensive understanding of forest dynamics.
Through hands-on learning and sensory awareness activities, they will engage in inquiry-based exploration that reveals the intricate interactions between abiotic (non-living) and biotic (living) components of the forest.
This immersive study deepens students’ appreciation for nature while fostering a sense of responsibility toward preserving our precious woodlands.
Wildlife Ecology Center
Sly Park is located within a diverse ecosystem that includes creeks, forests, and fields. Our comprehensive wildlife ecology program—enhanced by the unique Sly Park Ecology Center—offers an immersive learning experience that brings nature to life. Students will discover ecosystem diversity, energy transfer, structure and function, and the crucial role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance. Hands-on learning experiences include observing living and preserved wildlife specimens up close, interactive games to illustrate ecological concepts, and scientific discussions to share and analyze findings.
Through these engaging, hands-on experiences, students develop a scientific perspective on wildlife and ecosystems, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its delicate balance.
Invertebrate Studies
Invertebrate Investigations/Field Study
Students dive into the fascinating world of forest floor ecosystems with our Feild Study/Invertebrate Investigations activity. This hands-on experience transforms students into junior scientists as they explore the vital role of small creatures in our natural world.
Students will discover how to use scientific sampling to collect terrestrial invertebrates and other tiny organisms, and then uncover facts about their critical importance in the ecosystem. Through this immersive investigation, students gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life in forest ecosystems and the significant impact of even the smallest organisms on our environment.
STEAM Room
STEAM Room
In the Sly Park STEAM Room, students dive into a world of creativity and problem-solving through a series of interactive stations focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM). They’ll learn about the engineering design process by engaging in hands-on activities that guide them through the various stages—brainstorming ideas, prototyping, and testing solutions.
Students can unleash their creative sides by designing and producing a Sly Park silk-screened shirt, a cherished tradition that allows them to express their individuality and ingenuity.
Discovery Lab
During their time at Sly Park, some groups will have the opportunity to visit our Discovery Lab. In this setting, student lab teams will either utilize dissecting microscopes to explore hydrated moss samples in detail or engage with iPads equipped with GLOBE collection apps to gather data on the air, sky, or forest, contributing to real-world scientific studies.
In both cases, students collaborate with a lab partner, potentially from another school, and practice documenting their findings through science journal entries. This hands-on approach not only enhances their scientific skills but also fosters a deeper connection with the natural world.
At Sly Park, students are encouraged to embrace science, cultivating curiosity, discovery, and a lasting bond with the Earth.
More Activities & Adventures
More Activities & Adventures
Challenge Wall
Challenge Wall
At Sly Park, our indoor climbing wall offers three distinct routes, each designed to provide varying levels of difficulty. This setup encourages students to challenge themselves, pushing their limits while promoting social and emotional growth. Two of the routes are equipped with Auto-Belay devices, while the third utilizes standard climbing belay equipment, operated by a professionally trained Sly Park instructor.
Our dedicated Sly Park teachers, along with visiting staff, foster a supportive, relationship-centered learning environment. This approach not only enhances the student experience but also strengthens group dynamics, helping students form meaningful connections with one another.
The challenge wall serves as more than just a physical test; it provides an opportunity for Sly Park instructors to guide students in self-assessing their relationship with struggle, determination, and the perseverance required to overcome challenges
Evening Programs
Evening Programs
Sly Park program does not end after dinner. There are several activities before bedtime. The evening schedule has been refined over the decades to help keep students engaged, to offer support to the tired and homesick, and to allow each student to experience a night hike one night during their time at Sly Park.
Students have Cabin Time following dinner to allow time to rest, shower, and intermingle within the cabin.
The All-Campus evening programs follow cabin time. They are are as follows:
Games Night the first night of program, all cabins participate in fun relays and Tug-of-War.
Class Song Night the second night of a 5-day program, all students get on stage with their class and sing a song they have prepared together.
Science Carnival the second or third night of program, students attend a Science Carnival in the gym.
Eco Cabin Skits the final night of program, each cabin gets on our stage to present an ecology-themed skit.
Following the All-Campus Evening Program, students go with their teachers from their schools for an evening check-in on how the week is going. Some students each night will venture through the forest with their Sly Park Teacher on a night hike.
All students reconvene at the end of the night as one large group before heading to get a cookie, any nighttime medications, and head to their cabins.
Sly Park’s days are long and filled with activities deep into the evening. Evening programs provide a campus-wide opportunity for all students to engage in several All Campus activities. These activities allow multiple avenues for students to develop relationships and a sense of belonging at Sly Park.
These experiences help foster a positive climate and culture at Sly Park and leave students with a more enriching experience.
Hikes & Trails
Orienteering
In our Orienteering program, students work in teams of two or three to master the art of navigation using a compass and GPS unit. Together, they will embark on an exciting adventure as they navigate a course marked by controlled waypoints.
Students can build team collaboration and navigation skills, learn topographical analysis techniques, and compare their observations of the environment using critical thinking and investigative abilities.
Sly Park has recently received iPads for use in the orienteering program. Moving beyond simply navigating, students will be able to record data, sometimes sharing with the GLOBE program actually being field scientists collecting data for NASA scientists to use.
Night Hike
Join us for an interactive group hike that invites students to experience the magic of the night. Under low- or no-light conditions, students will engage in scientific observations, uncovering the mysteries of nocturnal life and the cosmos.
Students can learn about nocturnal animal adaptations and how they’ve evolved to thrive in darkness. They’ll build sensory awareness as they navigate along the trail using sight, sound, and touch. Hikers can gaze at the stars, identify constellations, and discover the rich tapestry of nighttime folklore that has shaped human understanding of the natural world.
Jenkinson Lake Hike
The Lake Hike to Jenkinson Lake is a stunning five-mile round-trip journey through the picturesque Eldorado National Forest, leading you to the serene Jenkinson Lake Group Camp areas and the beautiful Crystal Cove.
As students hike to the lake, they’ll discover scenic vistas, lush forests, and tranquil waters. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, making it an ideal spot for observing the fish, eagles, ospreys, and migratory waterfowl that are part of a thriving ecosystem.
Cedar Park
The Cedar Park trail features a beautiful, paved, one-mile walking path that winds through the stunning Eldorado National Forest. This accessible trail invites students to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a leisurely stroll. During their hike, students can keep an eye out for the energetic squirrels darting through the trees and the deer grazing nearby. The area is also home to numerous bird species and native plants.
The Cedar Park trail is a great place to witness forest regrowth following a wildfire as the park was burned to prevent the Caldor Fire in 2021 from crossing Sly Park Road.
Native American Studies
Native American Studies
Step into our Native American Interpretive Center (NAIC) and embark on a journey through time. This immersive space showcases authentic artifacts that honor the rich heritage of local tribes who once called our region home. Students will develop practical skills and gain insight into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Native American cultures.
At the NAIC, students engage in a thought-provoking exploration of Native American cultures and their relationship with the environment. Our center offers a variety of engaging, hands-on activities that bring ancient skills to life, including fire-building, arrowhead knapping, acorn grinding, and ancient engineering and craftsmanship techniques.
Survival by Design
Survival by Design
In our Survival by Design activity, students engage in a hands-on experience that combines team building with the practical skills of shelter construction. Working in teams, students will design, build, and evaluate an emergency survival shelter.
During the design and building process, students will learn how to collaborate with others, navigate specific design constraints, and use heat-transfer principles to improve the effectiveness of their shelter designs. Students gain valuable survival skills and strengthen their ability to collaborate and innovate.
