At Doodlebug Adventures, we inspire a love of nature and learning through outdoor nature play, exploration, and hands-on activities. Our goal is to nurture curiosity, build community, and foster a deep respect for the environment in a fun and safe setting.
Choose Your Adventure!
We're thrilled to offer a host of new programs designed to spark imagination, build community, and celebrate the world around us.
Registration Now Open!
Doodlebug Adventures
2026 Winter Season
Park Pop Ups with
Doodlebugs
NEW!!
Appreciation Days
NEW!!
Weaving Wisdom
NEW!!
The beloved program that started it all! Join us for our signature seasonal sessions packed with nature play, exploration, and hands on activities that encourage young minds to observe and interact with the natural world.
Bring the adventure outdoors! We're popping up at local parks for spontaneous, fresh-air sessions! These casual, fun gatherings feature nature hunts, simple crafts, and playtime, making it easy to enjoy a dose of Doodlebug magic in your neighborhood.
Let's celebrate! From "National Day of the Rainbow" to "National Tree Day," join us for special themed sessions that celebrate those fun "National Day of ....." occasions. Each event features activities centered around the day's theme, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the big and small things in life!
A class just for the grown-ups! Weaving Wisdom offers a beautiful space for adults to gather, encourage fellowship, and build community. Learn how to make various handmade items, including practical household goods and decorations. We focus on using easily accessible, low-cost materials—from items found around the house to treasures gathered in nature—empowering you to create while connecting with others.
What is Doodlebug
Adventures?
Nature becomes the classroom for play-based learning at Doodlebug Adventures. Part structure and part wander, children ages 18 months to 8 years, along with their caregiver(s), discover the wonders of Nature and their place in it through fun, creative, outdoor activities— in a safe, supportive community. During the 8 week session, Doodlebug Adventures teaches Explorers (children) to be curious, capable, and caring learners. They develop key life skills and a love for the outdoors, all through play-based activities. An inclusive, welcoming space makes all feel valued and connected.
Meet Your Guide!
Doodlebug Adventures Founder and Program Director, Karen Dixon, is a fun spirit and a gentle soul who leads with curiosity and compassion. She delights in sharing her lifelong love and appreciation for the wonders of nature with children of ALL ages.
With over 25 years of experience in nature-based education, she is a member of the Environmental Educators of North Carolina, is certified as a National Wildlife Habitat Steward, and a TreeMaster with TreesCharlotte. As a longtime Leadership Team member (and former Vice President) of the Charlotte Chapter of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, she led planning for Kids in Nature Day, I Spy, and numerous other outdoor family events. Her love of Nature is only matched by her love of children.
Winter Season Schedule
Join us for 8 weeks of wonder this winter! Classes will be held once a week, starting the week of January 14 and continuing through the week of March 4.
Don’t miss out on the excitement!
Which session works best for you?
Session 1
Wednesday
Class
January 14 - March 4
10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Session 2
Friday
Class
January 16 - March 6
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
All classes are held at Windsor Park.
10140 Northeast Parkway, Charlotte, NC
(behind Sycamore Commons & Windsor Square shopping centers)
*Age of students: 18 months - 8 years (If a student falls outside the specified age range for the class, please reach out, as exceptions may be considered)
*This is not a “drop off” program. Caregiver(s) must attend class with Explorer(s).
*All classes will be held outdoors in all weather, *except severe or dangerous*-- please dress accordingly (communication will happen beforehand if class needs to be canceled or rescheduled).
*Students per class: Minimum 3 - Maximum 15
*Class registration is required and is not complete until class fee is paid in full.
FREE
2025 Annual Tinkergarten Lantern Walk
November 8
4:30-5:30 PM
Squirrel Lake Park - 1631 Pleasant Plains Rd. (Matthews)
Bring your own jar and *flameless* candle (or flashlight) and join us for a magical FREE family evening as we light up the park together! Children will create and decorate their very own lanterns before setting out on a guided walk at dusk. Along the way, families will explore the beauty of nature at night and discover fun facts about the park’s plants and wildlife.
**IMPORTANT event note: Program and decorations are provided at no charge. Mason jars and *flameless* candles will be available for purchase ($5) while supplies last.
Additional Events!
Ready for fun and adventure?
Register Now!
