Group Experiences
Spaces to Gather & Explore:
The Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve offers several inviting spaces for groups to meet, learn, and connect with nature:
Lehmann Lab & Screened Porch: Indoor space for up to 12 people, with a sink, power outlets, and a refrigerator. The attached screened porch comfortably accommodates 15–20, ideal for small workshops or discussions while enjoying fresh air.
Picnic Grounds & Fire Pit: Adjacent to the Lehmann Lab, outdoor tables and benches seat up to 50. The fire pit is available with advance permission, perfect for group gatherings or evening activities.
Jeep Shed: A historic indoor space that can host up to 40 people, flexible for workshops, presentations, or mingling. Electricity is available, and the Lehmann Lab amenities are just a short walk away.
Trails & Outdoor Spaces: Explore over five miles of trails, birdwatch, or enjoy seasonal recreation such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
Host your next meaningful gathering surrounded by the beauty of nature. Reserving a space at the Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve offers a peaceful and inspiring setting for workshops and educational programs, team retreats, family and community gatherings, and small events. Whether you’re seeking a space for learning, connection, or celebration, the preserve provides the perfect natural backdrop.
Join One of Our Educational Programs or Field Trips
Explore the preserve with guided activities through immersive experiences in nature:
Learning Adventures – Guided outdoor explorations where students and participants discover local wildlife, plants, and ecosystems through activities like hiking, journaling, and photography.
Birdwatching Tours - Observe local and migratory species in their natural habitat.
Naturalist camps – Seasonal programs that spark curiosity, creativity, and environmental stewardship.
Contribute to Conservation & Stewardship
Make a difference while connecting with nature:
Habitat Restoration – Help maintain and restore native habitats to support wildlife.
Trail Maintenance & Care – Learn about sustainable trail practices while keeping the preserve accessible.
Citizen Science Projects – Contribute to real-world conservation research by monitoring and protecting habitats and wildlife.
Reserve the Preserve
Host meaningful gatherings surrounded by nature:
Team Retreats - Strengthen connections and collaboration in a unique outdoor setting.
Family & Community Gatherings – Celebrate milestones or enjoy shared experiences outdoors.
Workshops & Small Events – Customized programs for learning, photography, or nature-based activities.
Why Choose Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve?
NSNP is a living classroom, perfect for exploring birds, wildlife, and habitats where groups guide their own learning experience, supported by MHAS resources and volunteers.
School & Youth Field Trips: Groups can lead their own hikes, birdwatching, or habitat exploration, using their own curriculum or resources we provide.
Young Naturalist & Seasonal Programs: Children and families can track bird migrations, observe wildlife, and participate in citizen science activities under the guidance of their own leaders.
Adult & Lifelong Learning Workshops: Groups may organize birding walks, habitat studies, or conservation-focused activities, sometimes including guest speakers or volunteer-led sessions.
MHAS staff and volunteers help prepare the preserve, provide educational materials, and ensure your visit runs smoothly, while group leaders guide the learning. This approach allows each group to customize their experience, inspiring curiosity, environmental literacy, and stewardship of birds and their habitats.
While we do not have a dedicated naturalist on site, we can help you prepare, provide resources, and occasionally bring in guest speakers or volunteers to enrich the experience.
Groups choose Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve because it is a living classroom that combines learning, adventure, and nature.
Need Help Tailoring Your Experience?
We’re happy to help you create the best experience for you and make the most of your time at the preserve. Reach out to us at info@spearheadmhas.org with any questions or special requests.
Maintaining the Preserve
The Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve is owned and managed by the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society, and keeps these spaces ready for your use—so you can focus on creating an experience that fits your group’s goals. Please see our use agreement for group rules and responsibilities.
While Visiting NSNP
The preserve provides a nearly pristine setting for educational programs, ecological research, or private events. We require that group organizers contact us to schedule a brief conversation to review our guidelines and assure we are a good fit.
Groups are encouraged to:
Plan their activities and programs using their own curriculum or schedule MHAS educational resources at least two weeks prior to your date.
Take care of the preserve by being gentle with plants and animals and leaving the trails and nature the way you found them.
Respect wildlife and habitats; minimize disturbance to nesting areas.
Stay on designated trails and activity areas.
Use the preserve in ways that support the MHAS‘s purpose.
Reservation fees help MHAS maintain the preserve, provide educational programs, and keep the property open year-round. Rates vary based on group size, event type, and duration.