Frequently-Asked Questions for Schools and Groups
Eagle River Nature Center (907)694-2108
Do we have to pay for parking?
All vehicles parked at the Eagle River Nature Center must have a parking permit. Organized groups will be given complimentary Day Parking Permits as part of their program fee. All self-guided groups over 10 must make reservations and pay $1/person instead of the regular $5 fee/vehicle (pay at front desk when Center is open, or use parking fee box when closed).
Are there restrooms if center is closed?
Yes, there are latrines in the parking lot, but none along the trails.
Where can we eat lunch?
Your group may eat their sack lunches at the picnic tables outside the Nature Center, or at their destination such as on a riverbank along the Eagle River. To avoid overcrowding, all groups over 10 must make reservations for the picnic tables. The viewing decks and boardwalks are NOT large enough for groups to eat their lunches. In the case of rain, school classes participating in a naturalist-guided program may be allowed to eat their lunches inside the Nature Center (space is limited – students will need to sit on the floor). Sorry, we may not be able to accommodate self-guided groups inside the center when a program is being held. Please note that groups can also rent the Classroom Yurt.
What if the weather is bad or the temperatures very low?
We will cancel a field trip only if the weather is exceptionally bad (not for rain or snow showers) and if the temperatures dip to 0 degrees F or lower (for K-8th graders only). We will do our best to reschedule your class trip or provide a reimbursement.
Where can I get a trail map?
Download our Trailmap to print one out prior to your visit, or get a map at the Nature Center.
May we bring dogs?
Dogs are not allowed on our organized programs. You may walk your dog on the trails. They need to be leashed on the Rodak and Albert Loop Trails and around all facilities. Dogs are not allowed inside the building (with the exception of trained guide dogs).
Can we bring tents and camp?
No car or RV camping is available at the Nature Center. The closest campground is the Eagle River Campground (at Highland Exit off the Glenn Highway). The closest back-country tent-camping area is at Rapids Camp, which is a 2 mile hike from the Nature Center parking lot along the Crow Pass Trail. Contact the Chugach State Park Headquarters at (907)345-5014 for current back-country camping policies, or the Public Lands Information Center at (907)271-2737.
Are there bears?
Yes, this is bear country. For tips on staying safe in bear country, go to Outdoor Safety.
