Frequently Asked Questions

About Riveredge
About Volunteers/Volunteering
About Donating
Riveredge Programs

About Riveredge

What kind of trails are there?

There are over 10 miles of trails dedicated to hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. See the Trail Map for further information. We are sorry, but dogs are not allowed on Riveredge hiking trails.

How has Riveredge helped the Scientific community?

The Riveredge Sanctuary is prized by educators, naturalists and biologists for its exceptional diversity and serves as a regional resource for scientific research. Riveredge has hosted more than 40 studies, projects, inventories, monitoring programs, surveys, and other types of scientific investigations to date.

Just how big is this place, anyway?

Riveredge was one of the first nature centers in Southeastern Wisconsin, starting with 72 acres and a dream. Now, Riveredge has grown to almost 380 acres of natural sanctuary with 10 miles of trails, prairie establishments, forests, a sugar bush, ponds and marshes.

Are there any facilities for rent?

Yes, there are a few buildings and areas for you to have any type of gathering at! Please take a look at the Rental Page to find more information on the barn, classrooms and the coop we have available.

About Volunteers and Volunteering

How do I volunteer for Riveredge?

Thanks for asking! We appreciate all of our volunteers to no ends. Please check out the Volunteer Page and follow the directions there to volunteer with us.

Where can I volunteer?

There are so many ways to help us out! You can volunteer only at special events, only on the weekends or weekdays, only with research, only at the desk in the lobby or office, or only outdoors. Or anything else! Take a look at our Volunteer Page to find an opportunity that's right for you.

About Donating to Riveredge

What can donating do for me?

Those who support Riveredge with a contribution of $40 or more receive discounts on Riveredge programs, bookstore purchases and facility rentals, and receive our newsletter with the calendar of programs and events, as well as invitations to special events such as the Yule Log Dinner and the Maple Syrup Supper.

Can my company donate?

Yes, of course, we appreciate you asking! Any corporation or business can donate to Riveredge, and help us with many programs and educational events. The business will also gain many benefits from doing so! Learn how to donate here.

How do I donate?

There are actually a few ways you can go about supporting Riveredge! Check out this Donation Page to find the right one for you.

Riveredge Programs

What sort of programs do you run?

We have many children's progams, adult programs, scout, summer camp and school programs for people ranging from 3 years old to 103 years old! Click each link for information on the separate types of programs. Also, click here for the Calendar of Events.

Which schools come to Riveredge for programs?

Both public and private schools in Waukesha, Washington, Fond du Lac, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Dodge, and Sheboygan Counties participate in our hands-on environmental education programs correlated to Wisconsin standards. We also offer an Environmental Education Curriculum Framework program for schools that wish to provide their students with more extended and long-term environmental education opportunities. Northern Ozaukee School District and Eastbrook Academy (Milwaukee) currently participate in this Framework program. We also offer outreach programs at school nature areas, including regular programs at Thorson Elementary School in Cedarburg.

What kind of field trips can my school schedule through Riveredge?

There are too many to list here, all ranging from preschool art classes to educating eighth graders on water quality. Have a peek at our Program List and find one that is right for your class!