Carrie Murray Nature Center facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Carrie Murray Nature Center |
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| Type | nature center |
| Location | 1901 Ridgetop Road Baltimore, Maryland |
| Created | Late 1980s |
| Operated by | Baltimore City Government |
| Website | carriemurraynaturecenter.org |
The Carrie Murray Nature Center (CMNC) is a special place in Baltimore, Maryland. It's the only nature center in Baltimore City. Here, you can learn all about nature and the environment. It's run by Baltimore City Recreation and Parks.
The center has live animals and outdoor bird areas. There are also indoor exhibits to explore. It's located inside the huge Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park. This park is one of the biggest city forests east of the Mississippi River.
About 30,000 people visit the nature center every year. This includes families, school groups, and summer camps. They offer many fun programs for all ages.
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About the Nature Center
The Carrie Murray Nature Center was created thanks to a kind gift. Eddie Murray, a famous baseball player from the Baltimore Orioles, made a big donation. He is even in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
The center was officially opened in 1985. It was named after Eddie's mother, Carrie Murray. Ms. Murray was a very strong and gentle person. She taught her twelve children important values. These included caring for family, respecting nature, and being responsible.
The nature center hopes to share Ms. Murray's spirit. They want to inspire everyone to care for nature and each other.
Fun Programs and Activities
The Carrie Murray Nature Center offers many exciting ways to learn about nature. Here are some of their popular programs:
Outdoor Discovery Adventures
In these programs, kids use their senses to explore nature. They go hiking and discover the natural world around them. Afternoons include fun nature-themed art and activities. You also get to meet some of the center's live animal ambassadors!
School Field Trips
Schools can visit the nature center for field trips. These trips teach about science, nature, and the environment. Students learn outdoors, go hiking, and explore Gwynns Falls Leakin Park. It's a great way to learn outside the classroom.
Schoolyard Visits
Can't make it to the center? The nature center can come to your school! They bring live animals and lead fun activities. You can discover plants, insects, and other wildlife right in your schoolyard. It's like a mini nature trip at your school.
Weekend Nature Programs
Every Saturday, the center offers special programs. These are often free or low-cost. They are guided programs for all ages. It's a perfect way to spend a weekend learning about nature.
Animal Encounters
Want to get up close with animals? You can interact with live animals from the center's collection. A naturalist will teach you about them. You'll also see animal artifacts. You'll learn how scientists group animals based on their bodies and behaviors.
Summer Nature Camp
Summer camps at the center are all about outdoor exploration. Campers look for birds, insects, and animals in the forest. They also discover fish in the stream. Fun nature arts and crafts are part of the camp experience.
Wild Haven Forest Immersion
Wild Haven helps young children connect with nature. It's a program for preschool and childcare. Kids have the chance to learn and play outdoors. Being in nature has many benefits for children. This program started in 2018 and expanded in 2020.
Volunteer Opportunities
High school students can earn service hours at the nature center. They work on projects that help the center. Students can also create their own projects. It's a great way to help the community and learn about nature. These opportunities happen on the first Saturday of each month.
Partners
The nature center works with many partners. These partnerships help them share the wonders of nature. They reach more people in Baltimore and beyond.
