FAQs

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 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 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. Programs this year include a wilderness first aid training series, a Dads in the Woods program over Father’s Day weekend, our second annual Women’s Yoga Retreat, the Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged mini-conference and our family-friendly Member Weekend. We also have some exciting new programs in the works, such as a possible nature photography workshop and winter beekeeping program. Visit our adult and family programs page as well as our special events section to learn more.

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 p.m. on weekdays; you risk being locked in if you park inside our gate.

Are there volunteer or membership opportunities?

Of course! Consider becoming a member of ONSC or joining the ONSC Corps. Learn more in the Get Involved section of our site, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. The very best way to stay in the loop is to receive our e-newsletters.

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.