1831 Traver Road Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105 | Phone 734-997-1553 |
All public operations are limited to select programming until further notice. Check this page for the latest information.
Cub Scouts
Due to ongoing site maintenance, we are hosting 2-hour scout programs at nearby Gallup Park and Furstenberg Nature Area. Scouts have the opportunity to explore prairie, woods, and wetlands as they work to earn their badge. Please email info@lesliesnc.org or call 734-997-1553 for more information.
Scout Overnight programs are temporarily suspended.
Scout Workshops
New this year! Looking for an opportunity for your scouts to explore the outdoors? Curious about participating with multiple troops in Ann Arbor’s natural spaces? We will offer scout workshops monthly to better fulfill requirements for different badges and adventures. Sign-up below!
An adult is required for every 5 scouts. Registration is required for all children including siblings.
Program | Rank | Location | Date & Time |
Fur, Feathers, and Ferns | Bear | Gallup Park | 2/15 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM |
Critter Care - cancelled | Bear | Gallup Park | 3/28 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Paws on the Path - cancelled | Wolf | Furstenberg Nature Area | 4/25 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Tigers in the Wild | Tiger | Furstenberg Nature Area | 5/23 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
Private Workshops
We offer programs for Tigers, Wolves, Bears, and Webelos. Your troop may choose a two-hour program or an overnight program from the topics listed below. We will complete most, if not all, of the requirements but the badge itself is not included. Come join us for a wonderful experience enjoying the great outdoors!
Program | Meets Badge | Description |
Hiker |
Tigers in the Wild; |
Scouts will learn how to properly prepare for a hike in the woods, and then hit the trails! Through activities, games, and a hike we will discover what is “essential,” and how we can “leave no trace” all while exploring the wildlife—both in Black Pond Woods and in the Critter House— we are trying to protect! |
Camper |
Wolves Call of the Wild; |
Join us for an evening adventure! Scouts will learn how they can properly prepare for an a camp-out adventure by learning how to cook dinner over a fire, practicing pitching a tent, practicing knots, planning for the weather, reviewing the "Leave No Trace" ethics, and going on a guided night hike. This program must be scheduled as an overnight. Troops should bring a simple meal to cook over the fire--click here for suggestions. LSNC provides sticks and s’mores supplies. |
Finding your Way | Wolves Finding Your Way; portion of AOL Camper |
Learn how to navigate the trails at LSNC! Scouts will learn how to use a compass, create their own maps, and go on a scavenger hunt using their new skills. |
Fur, Feathers, Ferns | Bears Fur, Feathers, Ferns |
Scouts will take a hike on the Black Pond Woods trail and discover what plants and animals call this place home, while also exploring how cultivated plants thrive in Project Grow’s gardens. Scouts will get the opportunity to meet and observe one native species up close and learn about the adaptions it has that allow it to survive and thrive.
The planting of vegetable or herb garden portion of this badge must be completed at home, but we can get you started! |
Into the Wild | Webelos Into the Wild | Scouts will learn the importance of observation and identification as they explore the special habitat of Black Pond Woods and take a trip out to our vernal pond. Scouts will be introduced to the method of nature journaling and the S’s of birding to practice in their own back yards. |
Into the Woods | Webelos Into the Woods | Where would we be without trees? Scouts will discover the vital role these plants play in an ecosystem and our own lives! Through a variety of activities and a guided hike, scouts will explore and identify the trees of Black Pond Woods.
To complete this badge, scouts must plant a tree before or after the program. |
Ready to schedule a program?
- Scout Program Request Form
- Call 734-997-1553 or e-mail info@lesliesnc.org with the following information:
- Leader name, phone number, and e-mail
- Troop name
- Group size
- Program choice
- Ideal dates
2-Hour Cub Scout Program Overview
Duration | 2 hours | |
Cost | $10 per scout | |
$120 minimum | ||
Group Size | 17-34 | |
Scout Levels | Tigers, Wolves, Bears, Webelos | |
Badges | Tigers in the Wild, Paws on the Path, Call of the Wild, Bear Necessities, Finding your Way, AOL Camper, Fur, Feathers, Ferns, Into the Wild, and Into the Woods | |
Location | Leslie Science & Nature Center--Critter House, Raptor Enclosures, and Black Pond Woods Trails | |
Parking | Limited, carpool if possible | |
Lunch or dinner add-on | $25 for additional 30 minutes before or after program |
Want more details? See our Scout F.A.Q. on our main page.
- Click here for more information on our Overnight Programs.
We hope to see you soon!
Interconnected
When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world. - John Muir