About Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom

Students learn about native plants in the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom

The Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom showcases eight native plant communities, 27 interpretive posts, accessible paved and gravel trails, and restored historical features on 17.5 acres. The Classroom provides natural and cultural interpretation, a place for learning, and habitat for native wildlife. Development of the Classroom was initiated with funding from Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) and Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF). A group of community volunteers, the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom Advisory Committee, has additional information about the Classroom on their website.

Educational Resources

The Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom Guidebook* was published in 2016 to provide background information for educators and the public. The guidebook contains a map of the Classroom, content of 27 interpretive posts, natural and cultural history material, and environmental stewardship strategies employed in the Classroom. The guidebook has been financed in part with funds provided by the State of Minnesota through the Minnesota Historical Society from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

The publication may be viewed online and the following PDF files are available for download:

Using the Outdoor Classroom

The Classroom is open to the public during park hours (sunrise to 11:00 p.m.). To ensure a positive experience for all teachers and students using the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation issues permits to groups. These free permits help track numbers and activities for grant reporting and manage the level of use for the sustainability of the Classroom. Reservation times are offered in two blocks: 8 a.m.-noon and noon-4 p.m. Permits will be issued for up to four classes or up to 120 students per block. If you wish to use the Classroom for an entire day, reserve both blocks of time. For reservations, please contact the Permit Office at parkspermits@ci.stpaul.mn.us or (651) 266-6400.

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Last Edited: May 10, 2024