Saint John's Outdoor University

Saint John's Outdoor University Saint John's Outdoor University is an educational, recreational, and environmental program of Saint John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict.

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Have you ever looked out over a lake and wondered, “What’s living beneath those lily pads?” Or asked yourself, “What kin...
06/16/2026

Have you ever looked out over a lake and wondered, “What’s living beneath those lily pads?” Or asked yourself, “What kinds of creatures hide among the cattails?”
We’ve got just the thing for you!

On Thursday, July 23, join us for an Aquatic Ecology Guided Hike as we explore the waterways and submerged habitats of the Saint John’s Abbey Arboretum Nature Sanctuary. From tiny aquatic life to curious amphibians, you’ll get an up-close look at the ecosystems thriving just below the surface.

If you’ve ever tried to catch a frog—or just love discovering what’s hiding in the water—this might be your favorite event of the summer!

👉 Register here: https://shorturl.at/UcL8V

Job Opportunity!There’s just ONE week left to apply for Minnesota GreenCorps! 🌿We’re excited to share that Saint John's ...
06/12/2026

Job Opportunity!

There’s just ONE week left to apply for Minnesota GreenCorps! 🌿

We’re excited to share that Saint John's Outdoor University and the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University Sustainability Office will be a host site this year. If you’re interested in sustainability, community impact, and hands-on experience, this is an incredible opportunity.

👉 Learn more and apply through the link here: https://shorturl.at/ExQrN

Do you love capturing the beauty of the Abbey Arboretum? Maybe while you’re out with friends or enjoying a solo hike? We...
06/11/2026

Do you love capturing the beauty of the Abbey Arboretum? Maybe while you’re out with friends or enjoying a solo hike? Well, we’re excited to announce our Summer Photo contest with Saint John's Abbey Arboretum - Nature Sanctuary!

From June 11–July 13, we’re accepting photography submissions for our summer contest! Our team will select our final favorites, and the community will decide on the winner. As for photos, we’re looking for shots of nature or people in nature—think birds, scenic lakeshores, stunning prairies, or quiet moments on a secluded trail.

And yes—there are PRIZES! The top winner will receive Saint John's Maple Syrup, exclusive Outdoor University swag, and their photo will be featured on our limited-run, exclusive deck of playing cards!

Click the link to learn more: https://shorturl.at/LQFkV

Fun fact! Did you know Saint John’s Outdoor University and the Saint John's Abbey Arboretum - Nature Sanctuary have thei...
06/10/2026

Fun fact! Did you know Saint John’s Outdoor University and the Saint John's Abbey Arboretum - Nature Sanctuary have their own newsletter? Well… now you do! 🌿

Twice a year, our staff, students, and friends share updates, insights, and the occasional “brain dump” on the topics that excite them most. From mosquitoes to forests, far-flung adventures, and everything in between—this is one of our favorite ways to tell our story.

Want to read the full issue? It’s an exclusive perk for Saint John’s Outdoor University members! In the meantime, we’ve shared a preview story along with all our upcoming events. Check it out here: https://shorturl.at/Z9lj3

It's hard to believe, but we are already into the fourth week of summer vacation at the College of Saint Benedict and Sa...
06/09/2026

It's hard to believe, but we are already into the fourth week of summer vacation at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University!

Each year, Saint John's Outdoor University has nearly a dozen full-time, student employees helping us out. For this year, we are having 5 summer camps run, and this amazing crew of students is helping us make it happen!

We are so excited to have everyone on the team!

06/04/2026

What happens when a frog parks in the wrong spot... it gets toad!

Surprise, it's Minnesota's frogs and toads! Join us for this month's episode of Phenology Forecast to explore the unique calls of some of our favorite amphibians.

Let us know your favorite frog or toad in the comments below... 🐸🎶

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer vacation! Kindergarten season has wrapped up at Saint John's Outdoor University, ...
06/03/2026

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer vacation! Kindergarten season has wrapped up at Saint John's Outdoor University, we had over 700 kindergarteners visit us! They had so much fun learning to explore with their senses, find colors in nature and collect so many awesome rocks. If you missed us, don’t worry! We’ll be taking reservations again in August! Hope to see you all then!

For anyone still looking for activities for their kiddos, Saint John’s Outdoor University has ONE spot left for our Midd...
06/01/2026

For anyone still looking for activities for their kiddos, Saint John’s Outdoor University has ONE spot left for our Middle School Summer Camp — Raiders of the Lost Arb!

Taking place June 22–25 during the day, kiddos ages 12–14 will explore, learn, and engage in dozens of outdoor activities. If you're interested, make sure to fill out the form below — that is the ONLY way to reserve your spot!

👉 https://shorturl.at/ZVdn6

📷 Mosquito Gallery 📷There are over 50 mosquito species found here in Minnesota! Pictured above are Aedes vexans, Culex t...
05/26/2026

📷 Mosquito Gallery 📷

There are over 50 mosquito species found here in Minnesota! Pictured above are Aedes vexans, Culex tarsalis, Culex Pipiens, and Anopheles quadrimaculatus -- look at their beautiful coloring!

Join us on Saturday, June 13th at 1pm to learn more about these cool creatures!

Click the link here to register: https://shorturl.at/O5gQa

05/19/2026

We're all familiar with the pesky mosquito, but have you ever wondered where they come from and what they do? 🦟🌿

Join us on Saturday, June 13th at 1pm to get to know mosquitoes a bit better - they do much more than just bite people! 🌳🦟

To register, click the link here: https://shorturl.at/O5gQa

Address

2945 Abbey Plaza
Collegeville, MN
56321

Telephone

+13203633163

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