Valley View Nature Learning Center

GARNA launched the Valley View Nature Learning Center in April 2025 as new community hub for youth and adult environmental education in the Upper Arkansas Valley. Located at the historic Valley View Schoolhouse just outside Salida, the center provides a dedicated space for hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and community connection.

The Valley View Nature Learning Center is owned by Chaffee County, and was restored with state funding to preserve the historic schoolhouse. GARNA is managing the building and grounds to host year-round programs, community gatherings, and interagency collaboration. The site includes flexible classroom seating, a tv screen for presentations, and outdoor learning stations.

The schoolhouse is available for local non-profit partners for meeting and program space for free, and by donation for for-profit organizations. Please contact director@garna.org if you are interested in reserving the space.

Youth Programs

The schoolhouse serves as a home base for several of GARNA’s signature programs. In the summer, it hosts GARNA's Nature Camp for kids ages 5–10, where children learn through both classroom activities and outdoor exploration. It also serves as a meeting point for summer Camp GARNA middle school programs and afterschool EnviroScientists.

Community Programs

In addition to GARNA-led programs, the center is available for use by community partners and local organizations. It serves as a shared resource for meetings, workshops, trainings, and events that promote environmental literacy, youth development, and community well-being. For more information or to schedule use of the schoolhouse, contact Jessica Downing at director@garna.org.

Valley View Nature Learning Center