Homeschool Programs
Looking for engaging ways to connect learning with nature? Our Homeschool Programs offer seasonal opportunities for families to explore science and the outdoors together. With small-group experiences tailored for young learners, each program supports curiosity, connection, and nature discovery.
NEW PROGRAM: Water-Wise Wonderers
Join us for a four-week outdoor learning adventure designed specifically for 1st–5th grade homeschoolers!
Water-Wise Wonderers invites children and their parents into the world of freshwater through hands-on science, creative exploration, and nature-based play. Rooted in conservation, curiosity, and mindfulness, this program builds week by week, starting with the basics of water and ending in student-led discovery and action. At the end of Week 4, each student will receive a completion certificate and a special glass-bottom boat patch.
-
Program Details
- Dates: September 22, October 6, October 20, and November 3
- Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Audience: 1st–5th Grade Homeschoolers (younger siblings welcome)
- Parent/Guardian Participation: Required
- Group Size: Limited to 20 children and guardians
- Cost: $40 per person for all 4 sessions (children and adults must purchase tickets)*
- *Siblings under age 2 may attend for free with a participating parent.
-
Weekly Themes & What to Expect
-
September 22 (Session 1) – Water 101
Explore why water matters, where it comes from, and how it connects us to one another across the globe.
-
October 6 (Session 2) – Organisms, Water, and Habitats: Coexistence in Nature
Explore how people and animals depend on water (and each other!) to live and thrive.
-
October 20 (Session 3) – Threats to Water & Water-Wise Solutions
Understand water pollution and become part of the solution.
-
November 3 (Session 4) – Water Connects Us All: Field-Based Exploration
Celebrate what we’ve learned and make our own water discoveries with a creek-side adventure focused on water quality exploration and nature art.
-
Why Join Water-Wise Wonderers?
This unique program blends science, storytelling, mindfulness, and art to deepen your child’s connection to water and the natural world. With a small group format and highly interactive lessons, children will walk away with lasting memories, knowledge, and a sense of stewardship.
Ready to Dive In?
Spots are limited! Register today to reserve your place in this enriching homeschool experience. For questions, please contact the booking office at springlaketours@txstate.edu.
Let’s wonder, wander, and protect water—together.
Monthly Themed Programs
Dive into discovery with our monthly Homeschool Program!
Each month brings a new theme designed to spark curiosity and connect students with the natural world. Held on select Mondays, these immersive, hands-on classes invite homeschool families to explore the wonders of our environment above and below the water’s surface.
Each session includes interactive learning activities and a guided glass-bottom boat ride that reveals the hidden world beneath the water. Together, we'll explore how all living things are connected through the vital role of water in ecosystems.
-
Program Details
- Morning Session: Check-in begins at 9:45 a.m. (limited to 40 participants)
- Afternoon Session: Check-in begins at 1:45 p.m. (limited to 20 participants)
- Cost: $12 per person (children 2 and under are free)
- Pre-registration is required.
- All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are required for both children and adults.
-
Fall 2025 Monthly Themes
-
September 8, 2025 – Wonders of Water!
Dive into the science of water and explore how it shapes our world, supports life, and connects all living things.
-
October 13, 2025 – Eco Detective
Uncover the hidden lives of animals by exploring the clues they leave behind—tracks, feathers, nests, and scat!
-
November 3, 2025 – Celebrating the Land
Celebrate the deep connections indigenous cultures have with the land through traditional plants, stories, songs, and movement.
-
-
Spring 2026 Monthly Themes
-
February 9, 2026 – Wetland Exploration
Explore the diverse plants and animals that thrive in wetland habitats, and discover how they contribute to maintaining a clean and thriving ecosystem.
-
March 2, 2026 – Eco-Explorers
Become a scientist for the day by investigating ecosystems through observation and nature journaling!
-
April 6, 2026 – Birds of a Feather
Take flight into the world of birds and migration patterns.
-
May 4, 2026 – Pollinator Party!
Explore the essential role of pollinators and how they keep our ecosystems thriving.
-
Join us for an unforgettable learning adventure that brings science, nature, and fun together in one exciting monthly program!
-
Parking Information
Visitors' vehicles are required to display a permit in the Meadows Center parking lot. One-day temporary permits are available for $3 at the pay-and-display station located near the ticket kiosk.
-
Cancellation Policy
We require five business days' notice if you would like to reschedule or cancel your reservation for a refund. If, for any reason, we must cancel the tour (bad weather, etc.), you will be allowed to reschedule for a future program date or receive a full refund. Refunds will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. If you cannot attend your reserved program due to an extenuating circumstance, each case will be evaluated by Meadows Center staff for an opportunity to retain your program credit for a future date.