Field Trips

Jefferson Memorial Forest (JMF) serves JCPS, pa­rochial and private schools, as well as homeschool, scout, and youth groups. All of our programs are hands-on, interdisciplinary, and correlated to KY Academic Standards and Next Genera­tion Science Standards.

On-site facilities and features include an Environmental Education Center that showcases native wildlife, flora and fauna, an outdoor Nature Explore Classroom (the first certified Nature Explore Classroom in Kentucky), Shannon’s Pond (a reha­bilitated wetland habitat to support aquatic environmental education programs), small streams, scenic trails and a variety of ecosystems. In addition to programs offered onsite, our highly trained staff is available to visit school yards, local parks, and other natural areas throughout Louisville Metro.

Additional experiential education programs offered include team-building and classroom community development programs, utilizing our Teams Course. These programs teach cooperation, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and group cohesion for middle and high school students. Other programs unique to JMF include Orienteering, Archery, Survival Skills, Ca­noeing, Kentucky’s First People (American Indian education), and Bring a Book to Life, featuring Hatchet, My Side of the Mountain, and Children of the Longhouse.

For more information please call (502) 366-5432 or email our Program Manager at [email protected]

To request a field trip at Jefferson Memorial Forest, please click on the button below and fill out our request form.

Teachers and community leaders can make reservations for any of the programs below by calling the Welcome Center at 502-368-5404. Our staff will be happy to help you make reservations, and provide directions to the program location. You can also reach us via email for more info.

All programs require participants to wear close-toed walking shoes, and dress for the weather. Students and chaperones must submit a waiver form.

Refunds, less an administrative charge of $25, will be made when a two-week cancelation notice is given. No refund will be given for late cancelations or no-shows; however, in cases of inclement weather, we will be happy to re-schedule your trip, or give your school a credit that may be used at your convenience at any time throughout the year for any program of equal value.

As we are an outdoor facility, Louisville Parks and Recreation/Jefferson Memorial Forest shall not be liable for delays or cancelations occasioned by: acts of God, acts or omissions of the user or its designated participants, weather conditions, or other conditions beyond its reasonable control.

It is the intent of Louisville Parks and Recreation to make all programs and services accessible to all individuals regardless of ability level. If an accommodation is necessary for your participation, we ask that you advise Forest staff of the needed service in advance of your visit. Forest staff can be reached through our Program Development Office at (502) 366-5432.