about
faq's
Are your programs for kids only?
Are your trails accessible to the public?
Are there volunteer or membership opportunities?
What are the requirements to become an ONSC field instructor?
Is ONSC open to the public?
Not specifically. ONSC operates contract-based field science programs for area public and private school groups continuously through the academic year and summer science camps during summers. For security reasons, we are not open for public access while programming is in operation. See below for trail access or contact us for more information. Our office hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.
Do you offer summer camps?
Absolutely! ONSC offers a full range of age-appropriate residential summer programming for kids ages 8 to 18. Activities range from hiking and backpacking to caving and canoeing, all while learning about the plants, animals, and geology of the Ozarks. See our summer camps page for more information and to sign up
Are your programs for kids only?
No. We offer adult and family programming on a variety of topics. In the coming year we will hold nature photography workshops, family naturalist camps, and more. See our programs page and calendar of events for more information.
Are your trails accessible to the public?
While we are not specifically open to the public for tours or free programming (see above), our 7.5 miles of trail in the Bear Hollow Natural Area are open to the public for hiking on weekends. Hikers may park at the small parking area outside our gate and walk 3/4 mile to our main parking area. The trailhead and a kiosk are located in the main parking lot. ONSC assumes no responsibility for hikers, their personal belongings or vehicles, or their safety while on trails. Please note that our gate will be locked at 5:00 PM on weekdays; you risk being locked in if you park inside our gate.
Are there volunteer or membership opportunities?
Of course! Please see our Memberships page for more information on becoming a member of ONSC.
Where are you located?
We are located 3 miles east of AR Hwy. 23 between Huntsville, and Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Please see our driving directions page for specific directions.
What are the requirements to become an ONSC Field Instructor?
All ONSC Field Staff are required to hold a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in the natural sciences from an accredited college or university. Majors may include but are not limited to biology, zoology, geology, ecology, wildlife or fisheries biology, and environmental sciences. Instructors should have a palpable enthusiasm for sharing the wonder of the natural world with a diverse audience and be able to do so in all weather and field conditions. Check our Employment Opportunities page to check for vacancies.