What We Do
From scholarship funding to park enhancements and volunteering, Friends of Nature Parks has a number of opportunities for members of all ages. Contact us today or, better yet, start a membership to get in touch and join us on a journey through the Florida wilderness!
Park Enhancements
Our members are proud to contribute items that improve the experience of all those using the city’s parks. We have contributed both funding and content to kiosks that provide information to park patrons. We also fund and directly purchase benches and other materials intended to expand the use of parks to people with disabilities or families with small children. Contact us today to find out how you can get involved!
Scholarship Funding
One of our main goals is to help young people who may not otherwise have an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and the many parks our city has to offer. Each year, we provide scholarships to elementary and middle school students to cover transportation and fees for attending an environmental education program at Morningside Nature Center, as well as one week sessions to the city of Gainesville’s Earth Academy Day Camp. You can support the Earth Academy Day Camp with a contribution to The Hoyt Cotter Memorial Fund.
Cane Boil & Fiddle Fest
Held each year on a Saturday in the fall, this event combines traditions of giving thanks and fall harvest with old time fiddle music. Join us at the Morningside Living History Farm to experience the making and bottling of sugar cane syrup, live string bands, guided nature walks and living history interpreters bringing a country day in 1870 back to life. Be sure to check out the Events page for more information on the Cane Boil!
Gainesville Unplugged
Join this community celebration where you can explore local vendors, enjoy live entertainment, and visit the makers area to try your hand at creative projects. This event is on Saturday, February 21 from 10-1 at the Morningside Nature Center.
Ranger Jane with students.
Timeline with students and Windy.
Poetry in the parks
This educational program connects elementary school children to both their environment and imaginations through poetry. Kids get to explore Gainesville nature parks (particularly Morningside Nature Center) and express their discoveries by writing poems.
Content Updated 02/2026
