The ODC is operated by the Armstrong Center for Community Learning, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The ODC is situated on 30 acres
and includes a meeting room that holds 40 people, a lodge-style great room with fireplace, a full kitchen, and overnight accommodations for 24 people. Displayed in the building is an extensive collection of mounted animals including raptors and other birds, large and small mammals, snakes and fish. The ODC also features nature
trails including an interpretive trail, poetry trail, handicap accessible trail, pollinator garden, outdoor volleyball court, fire pit and picnic areas. Located adjacent to the ODC is the 2,600 acre Crooked Creek Lake Park. The park includes a 400-acre lake for boating, fishing and swimming,
sand beach, seven miles of nature trails, equine trail, disc golf course, playgrounds, etc. Partnerships
The ODC actively engages in cooperative educational programs with many area organizations and individuals including educational agencies and institutions, conservation agencies, grassroots environmental organizations, local businesses, and private citizens. Facility Rental
Organized groups can rent the ODC for programs, workshops, meetings and retreats. For more information about facility rental and availability, call 724-543-2599 ext. 222 or email [email protected]. Information is also available at www.armstrongcenter.org
Customized nature, outdoor and environmental
programming is available for an additional fee. Rental rates are as follows:
• $75/half-day
• $150/day
• $200/1 night (1—12 people)
• $400/2 nights (1—12 people)
• $300/1 night (13—25 people)
• $600/2 nights (13—25 people)
Educational Capabilities
The ODC offers a variety of educational programming for people at every age. The following programs are offered for youth:
• Knee High to Nature Program—a free program for elementary ages. Each 2 hour session includes a variety of fun, hands-on nature activities, games and crafts.
• Field Trips—available throughout the year for K-12 schools and boy/girl scout troops.
• Summer Camps—nature-themed day camps with engaging activities.
• Armstrong County Envirothon—the ODC hosts county-wide Envirothon competitions. The ODC also offers a variety of nature and recreational activities and workshops for the general public, including mushroom identification hikes, nature journaling, forest bathing, intro to snowshoeing and cross country skiing, etc. The ACCL/ODC is the coordinator for the PA Master Naturalist program for adults.
