Otters Den Nature School
Amy Keiper-Gowan is the founding director of Otters Den Nature School, an outdoor, after school, nature-based learning program in Washington State, serving elementary-age children and families. She creates joyful, hands-on learning experiences that help children build confidence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world.
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With 10 years of experience as an upper elementary public school teacher and three years as a Regional FieldSTEM Professional Development Coordinator, Amy brings deep knowledge of community-based education, youth programming, and ecosystem science. She holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Education and integrates environmental education, social-emotional learning, and inquiry-based science into her work. Her approach is grounded in play, presence, and relationship-centered learning.
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She is especially known for creating safe, welcoming outdoor spaces where children can explore, ask questions, and grow through real-world science experiences. Amy believes that meaningful learning begins with wonder and connection.
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When she’s not teaching outside, she enjoys hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family.
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Reach out to Amy anytime at amy@ottersden.org!
“If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the Earth before we ask them to save it.”
David Sobel.​​​
Programs
Applications are open and scholarships available!
2026
Wind Technology Summer Camp
The Wind Energy Summer Camp introduces students to renewable energy through hands-on, project-based learning focused on wind power. Students explore how wind energy works by designing, building, and testing their own wind turbines, experimenting with blade shape, size, and materials to see how these factors affect energy production. Through inquiry, teamwork, and real-world engineering challenges, learners build an understanding of energy systems, problem-solving skills, and the importance of clean, sustainable power.
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Dates: July 20-24th and July 27-31st (same program is repeated)
Time: 10am-3pm
Cost: $900/wk
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*Proceeds from summer camp tuition provide scholarships for the fall Outdoor School program to increase student access. No scholarships are currently available for summer camps.
2026
Spring Outdoor School
This after-school outdoor learning program gives children hands-on opportunities to explore, play, and learn in nature while building confidence, curiosity, and a love of the outdoors. Through guided STEAM activities, students move from discovery to focused exploration, skill-building, and reflection—helping them better understand the natural world and their place in it.​
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Session 1
March 3 – April 2 (5 weeks)
Session 2
May 5 – June 11 (6 weeks)​
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You can register your child for one or both sessions. Content will vary across sessions.
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​​Weekly Options:
Tuesdays & Wednesdays only | 3:00–4:00 PM (2 hours each day)
Thursdays only | 1:00–5:00 PM (4 hours)
Three Days | Tuesday + Wednesday + Thursday
2026
Ocean Technology Camp
The Ocean Technology camp engages students in place-based science learning grounded in both Western science and traditional ecological knowledge from Coast Salish communities. Students investigate the unique ecosystems of the Salish Sea and learn how scientists use technology to study the ocean. They apply this knowledge by designing, building, and testing their own remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) made of PVC pipes. Develops deeper understanding of ocean systems, human impacts, and stewardship while building critical thinking, creativity, and engineering skills.
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Dates: August 10-14th or August 17-21st (same program is repeated)
Time: 10am-3pm
Cost: $900/wk
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*Proceeds from summer camp tuition provide scholarships for the fall Outdoor School program to increase student access. No scholarships are currently available for summer camps.
OUR MISSION
We believe all children in Whatcom County should have access to affordable childcare and regular outdoor, field-based learning opportunities.
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Providing affordable childcare for school-age students in Whatcom County is both a practical and ethical commitment, ensuring children have stable, nurturing environments while enabling caregivers to participate fully in the workforce and supporting a stronger local economy. The Opportunity Council reports that 88% of employers in the county say employees’ work performance suffers due to lack of affordable childcare, highlighting the widespread impact on families and businesses.
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At the same time, field-based learning offers significant benefits for children, improving academic outcomes, engagement, cooperation, and social skills, while supporting physical health, reducing stress, and fostering lasting connections to the natural world. Together, affordable childcare and outdoor learning create environments where children, families, and the community can thrive.
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OUR VALUES
Community Engagement | Building partnerships with families, schools, and local organizations to strengthen community bonds.
Inclusivity and Diversity | Valuing diverse perspectives, cultures, and learning styles in all programming.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship | Teaching respect for natural resources and modeling eco-conscious practices.