More than 5,600 students from 63 schools across Indiana are set to explore the state’s natural landscapes during the 2025–26 academic year, thanks to the Discover the Outdoors Field Trip Grant Program. Administered by the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation (INRF), this initiative has awarded 68 grants totaling $27,691—the largest distribution since the program’s inception in 2013.
The grants, each up to $500, assist K–12 educators in covering transportation, program fees, and classroom materials for field trips to Indiana’s state parks and other DNR-managed properties. This year’s funding was bolstered by a $10,000 donation from STAR Financial Bank, alongside contributions from individual donors.
Since the program’s launch, over 30,800 students have benefited from 345 grants, enabling them to engage in guided hikes and educational talks led by interpretive naturalists. These experiences aim to deepen students’ understanding of Indiana’s diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts .
The program honors the legacy of Tom Huck, a dedicated DNR employee who championed outdoor educational experiences for children. It continues to receive support from organizations such as the Indiana Master Naturalist Advisory Council and the Indiana Parks Alliance.
Educators interested in applying for future grants can find more information and application details on the INRF’s official website. Applications for the 2025–26 school year were accepted from March 15 to April 30, with recipients notified by May 15.
Indiana offers a wealth of natural sites for educational exploration, including 24 state parks, eight reservoirs, two state forest recreation areas, and two off-road state recreation areas. These field trips provide students with hands-on learning opportunities about the state’s natural and cultural heritage.
In the local and regional Southern Indiana area, this includes schools in the following cities and towns of: Montgomery, New Albany, Evansville, Bloomington, Vincennes, Dubois, and Whiteland.
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