There’s no better way to get your children outside and build memories together in the great outdoors than Wild Together. Join Oxbow staff for this experiential family learning series on nature, adventure, and survival skills. This “learn-together” program explores practical tips and tricks for youth and their adults to help you feel more confident and connected outdoors. Discover how to get closer to nature—and what it takes to thrive in the wild! Children must be at least 8 years old to participate with their adults.

This brand-new series will be offered yearly, focused on different outdoor topics. Practice building a survival shelter out of natural and man-made materials. Learn different techniques to start a fire while camping. Explore with orienteering using the aid of a compass and maps. Try your hand at making the perfect cast while fishing. Learn proper paddling techniques while on the water and more! Depending on the activity, classes will take place at various St. Lucie County Preserves. To learn more about St. Lucie County preserves, please visit the Preserves of St. Lucie County webpage.

Pre-registration is required; space is limited for this unique opportunity. Classes are 3 hours each and will be held monthly, October - May. $15/session per participant. The link to register is at the bottom of this page. This program is for adults and their youth. No single participant will be allowed. When registering, please list the others you are participating with. All participants need to be registered.

Upcoming Classes:

January 17 - 9a.m. - 12p.m. - Backpacking 101 at Bluefield Ranch Preserve

Learn what to pack for a short hike or an overnight trip as we talk about the essentials you need to stay safe and comfortable. We will then go for a hike as we talk about the ecosystems at Bluefield Preserve and how we can protect the environment every time we go outside. Please be prepared to walk a few miles during this program.

February 21 - 9a.m. - 12p.m. - Birding/Animal Tracking at Indrio Savannahs

Ever wonder what bird was calling from the bushes or what animal left those tracks behind? We will explore Indrio Savannahs preserve as we look to find what creatures have been out by looking for scat, tracks, and who might be flying around. 

March 21 - 9a.m. - 12p.m. - Kayaking at Becker Preserve

Practice your paddling skills as we learn how to be safe on the water, proper paddling techniques, and how to get the most out of your time on the water. Personal flotation devices, kayaks, and paddles are provided.

April 25 - 9a.m. - 12p.m. - Ethnobotany at Steven J. Fousek Preserve

Ethnobotany is the traditional knowledge and customs of a culture around the use of plants. Learn how humans have used plants found in the Florida landscape throughout our history. We will learn how to identify common plants, what they were used for in the past and what plants we still use today as we hike the preserve system.

May 16 - 9a.m. - 12p.m. - Saltwater fishing - D.J. Wilcox

Learn how to make the perfect cast as we try our hand at saltwater fishing at D.J. Wilcox Preserve. We will cover safe casting techniques, what lures to use, fish species, differences between salt and freshwater fishing and other fishing essentials. We will see what’s biting as we fish the Indian River Lagoon

Shared equipment and bait will be provided, but you can bring equipment.

No experience is necessary, but a valid fishing license is required for anyone over 16 who wants to participate in the active fishing portion. License can be purchased online at: https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/freshwater-fishing/

Please register at the St. Lucie County Educational Programs site.

Important Information:

Cancellation more than 24 hours in advance will be granted a full refund. No refunds for cancellation less than 24 hours before the start of class. To cancel, call 772-785-5833.

Questions? Give us a call 772-785-5833 or email oxbow@stlucieco.gov.