Outdoor Learning Nonprofit Transforms Historic Forest Lodge Into Experiential Learning Hub

The New Chapter of Skyliners Lodge: A Beacon for Outdoor Education

Skyliners Lodge, a charming relic built in 1937 and nestled in the Deschutes National Forest just 11 miles west of Bend, has long been a go-to spot for outdoor learning and community gatherings. With an 88-year legacy marked by simple rustic charm and historic appeal, the lodge has now embarked on a new journey under the capable management of NatureConnect, a dedicated nonprofit previously known as Central Oregon Children’s Forest. This change, while reflective of evolving financial needs and shifting management responsibilities, promises to breathe fresh life into this cherished landmark.

In recent months, the future of Skyliners Lodge became surrounded by some tricky parts and tangled issues when the High Desert Education Service District, the agency that once oversaw its day-to-day operations, announced it would not renew a long-term permit with the U.S. Forest Service beyond June 30, 2025. The reason behind this significant decision was the rising operational costs making the upkeep of the historic structure increasingly overwhelming. However, thanks to the proactive measures of local advocates and NatureConnect, the lodge not only remains open but appears poised for a period of renewal, reinvention, and revitalization.

Embracing Change: The Role of NatureConnect in Continuing a Local Treasure

The transition to NatureConnect—a nonprofit organization dedicated to outdoor education—marks a key turning point. As an organization with a sharp focus on engaging kids with nature through hands-on field trips and educational programs, NatureConnect is uniquely positioned to manage the challenges associated with running a facility as old and storied as Skyliners Lodge. The group plans not only to manage scheduled educational events and community functions but also to oversee a major roof renovation aimed at ensuring the lodge remains safe and inviting for the coming decades.

This shift to nonprofit management is illustrative of a broader change in the ways local communities are finding new paths in preserving historical sites. Rather than succumbing to the financial strains that previously threatened the future of the lodge, local leaders saw an opportunity to make use of available resources and community spirit. In doing so, they embraced a solution that is both pragmatic and filled with a forward-looking vision of community engagement and sustainable outdoor education.

Reinvesting in History: Renovation and Preservation Efforts

One of the most critical elements of this new management strategy is the significant roof renovation scheduled to take place this August. NatureConnect recently secured a $128,000 grant from Visit Bend, the city’s tourism agency, which will fund the complete replacement of the historic roof with fire-resistant cedar shakes. This step is not just about maintenance—it is an investment in preserving a piece of local heritage that has withstood the test of time.

The decision to use fire-resistant cedar is thoughtful and represents a meticulous consideration of both safety and historical integrity. Given that the lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978, preserving its rustic aesthetics while updating its materials for enhanced safety is essential. This careful balance between the old and the new ensures that visitors continue to experience the authentic character of the lodge while benefiting from the peace of mind that comes with modern safety innovations.

The Importance of Outdoor Education in Today’s World

With a vibrant history and a promising future ahead, Skyliners Lodge is primed to remain a key outdoor education hub for the region. NatureConnect’s executive director, Katie Chipko, emphasizes that the lodge is a “must-have” component for encouraging a love of nature in young learners. Despite its remote appearance, the facility’s close proximity to Bend makes it incredibly accessible for school field trips and community events.

This renewed focus on outdoor education comes at a time when children are increasingly disconnected from the natural world. As technology continues to dominate daily life, the need for engaging, hands-on experiences in nature has never been more essential. Skyliners Lodge offers a unique opportunity for children to experience the outdoors in a safe, structured environment where learning extends beyond the confines of a traditional classroom. Whether it’s through guided hikes in the forest, wildlife observation, or interactive educational sessions led by NatureConnect staff, the lodge will serve as a living classroom in the truest sense.

Community Impact and the Broader Educational Landscape

The change in management of Skyliners Lodge represents a classic example of how communities can rally together to overcome what might seem like overwhelming challenges. The High Desert Education Service District had once taken great pride in managing the facility, often having to shoulder the financial burden of its operations despite its undeniable local significance. In contrast, NatureConnect, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is now bringing in a level of professional expertise and a sustainable model for managing and funding the lodge’s myriad activities.

Sara Johnson, the district superintendent, noted that while the district was committed to keeping the facility open, the rising costs had become a overpowering issue. In a graceful handover underscored by mutual respect, Johnson expressed her enthusiasm for transferring management duties to NatureConnect—an organization whose expertise in outdoor education is seen as essential for the future success of Skyliners Lodge. The collaboration stands as an example of wisely managing your way around complicated financial and logistical pieces while staying firmly committed to the educational mission.

Key Benefits of the New Management Model

The new management model under NatureConnect offers a range of benefits that promise to address both the practical and educational needs of the community:

Sustainable Funding: Rental revenue from hosting educational events and private functions will now be reinvested into field trips and outdoor learning initiatives, ensuring a cycle of continuous support.
Focused Expertise: NatureConnect’s dedicated team is well-versed in the subtle parts of outdoor education, providing kids with meaningful and engaging experiences that highlight the beauty and utility of the natural world.
Community Engagement: The lodge is positioned as a hub where families, educators, and community members can come together to celebrate the outdoors, share ideas, and build lasting memories.
Historical Preservation: By securing a major grant for roof restoration and updating safety features with fire-resistant materials, NatureConnect ensures that the historic integrity of Skyliners Lodge remains intact for future generations to cherish.

Exploring the Many Uses of Skyliners Lodge

While the lodge has long been associated with educational programming for youth, the renewed management under NatureConnect broadens its scope, opening the facility up to a wider range of events. Besides hosting school field trips and summer camps on an impressive 150 days of the year, Skyliners Lodge is fast becoming a favored venue for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats, and community meetings. This multi-purpose approach not only increases the building’s usage rate but also reinforces its status as a cherished community centerpiece.

One of the key advantages of this expanded schedule is its capability to draw in diverse groups. For instance, while educators can book regular field trips, families might choose this historic haven as the ideal setting for a memorable wedding or anniversary celebration. Corporate groups, in turn, can utilize the space for team-building exercises or strategic retreats that take full advantage of nature’s calming presence. Each of these varied uses, from intimate gatherings to large-scale events, contributes to a thriving ecosystem that benefits the community at large.

Table: Event Types and Their Community Benefits

Event Type	Community Benefit
School Field Trips	Engages youth with outdoors; enriches curriculum with hands-on learning experiences
Summer Camps	Provides extended learning opportunities; fosters team spirit and creativity in kids
Weddings and Family Gatherings	Strengthens community bonds; celebrates local heritage in a unique, natural setting
Corporate Retreats	Encourages team building; offers serene environments for creative brainstorming and stress relief
Community Meetings	Creates inclusive spaces for dialogue; supports local collaboration and shared initiatives

Financial and Logistical Considerations: A Closer Look

The transition from a school district-managed entity to a nonprofit-run facility involves its own set of tricky parts and financial hurdles. The previous operator, the High Desert Education Service District, struggled with rising costs and limited staffing while trying to uphold the traditions of this historic venue. In contrast, NatureConnect’s model is built on diversified revenue streams—primarily through renting out facilities for various events—and streamlined management practices focused solely on outdoor education and community engagement.

This innovative financial model not only alleviates the heavy burden on any single entity but also opens up new opportunities for investment in educational programs. For example, rental income will be directly funneled into funding field trips, enhancing educational modules, and even developing new outdoor learning initiatives that capitalize on the rich natural resources of the Deschutes National Forest.

A few of the financial benefits include:

Cost Sharing: By leasing the facility for private and corporate events, operating expenses are shared among different revenue sources, reducing the strain on a single funding channel.
Grant Opportunities: With targeted initiatives such as the roof renovation funded by Visit Bend, NatureConnect is clearly pursuing creative funding avenues that bring much-needed attention and additional resources to community projects.
Sustainable Investment: Relying on rental income reduces reliance on taxpayer funds, allowing future investments to be made with autonomy and a clear focus on educational outcomes.

This model, while not without its own complicated pieces and slight differences in management approaches, demonstrates the practical benefits of community collaboration. By taking a closer look at the facility’s potential as a multi-use venue and coupling that with a robust financial plan, local stakeholders are finding their way through the twists and turns of contemporary public service management. As a result, Skyliners Lodge stands not only as a historical monument but also as an emblem of innovation in public-private partnerships.

Community Voices: Reactions and Reflections

The transition at Skyliners Lodge has sparked a variety of responses from community members, educators, and local administrators—a mix of optimism and prudent caution. Longtime supporters of the lodge recall its golden days as a hub for creative outdoor learning experiences, while many view the renewed initiative as a breath of fresh air, one that promises to reinvigorate the local culture of engagement with nature.

Many community members echoed the sentiment that NatureConnect is well-suited to manage the delicate balance between historical preservation and modern educational needs. Katie Chipko, NatureConnect’s executive director, has remarked on numerous occasions that the facility’s legacy is integral to inspiring young minds. She explains, “Skyliners Lodge is super important for getting kids outdoors. While it feels remote and tucked away, it’s also remarkably easy to access and make use of. Our goal is to ensure that this beloved space continues to inspire and educate, just as it always has.”

On the other side, representatives from the High Desert Education Service District have expressed relief that the facility will remain active, though they acknowledge that managing the facility has been a nerve-racking experience given the limited resources available. Sara Johnson, the district superintendent, noted that transferring management was not a decision taken lightly, but one deemed necessary for the preservation of a community asset.

Bullet List of Community Reflections

Local educators appreciate that the facility is now in the hands of a group with targeted expertise in outdoor education.
Parents and community leaders feel that the renewed focus on sustainability and safety will make the lodge an even more attractive venue for family events.
Longtime supporters of Skyliners Lodge see the change as a tribute to the lodge’s enduring legacy and historical importance.
Former administrators believe that the nonprofit model is better suited to surmount the current challenges posed by rising operational costs.

Looking Ahead: The Journey of Preservation and Innovation

As Skyliners Lodge enters this new phase, its journey is emblematic of both the broader challenges and opportunities inherent in managing historic sites in a modern world. The partnership between NatureConnect and local community stakeholders exemplifies how tricky parts and tangled issues can be navigated through creative financing, expert management, and a shared commitment to community values. Once considered an overwhelming and intimidating task, the process of transitioning from a school district-managed operation to a nonprofit-led model has unfolded as a promising blueprint for similar projects nationwide.

The coming months will certainly be filled with moments of adjustment—a dance involving the balancing of historical preservation, financial sustainability, and community outreach. However, the constructive spirit of the local team and the proactive approach of NatureConnect provide ample reason to be optimistic. With the new roof installation serving as a tangible symbol of renewal and resilience, many are confident that Skyliners Lodge is set to continue its role as a springboard for outdoor learning, a favorite venue for social gatherings, and a living piece of cultural history in the heart of Central Oregon.

Subtopic: Finding Your Way Through Funding and Facilities Management

One of the more complicated pieces in managing Skyliners Lodge is figuring a path through the financial constraints and facility management issues that come with operating a structure nearly a century old. For many organizations, the subtle parts of handling such an endeavor can feel overwhelming. Yet, the journey undertaken by both the nonprofit and previous management has provided practical insights into making your way through these confusing bits step-by-step:

Leveraging Grants: Securing targeted funding, like the $128,000 grant from Visit Bend, demonstrates how specialized investments can address specific necessities—here, the roof renovation—to protect the building and its users.
Diversified Revenue Streams: Relying on income from rentals for different types of events ensures that one revenue channel does not carry the entire financial burden.
Community Collaboration: By bringing together educators, local government, nonprofits, and private event organizers, the management team has found its way through the maze of operational twists and turns.
Focused Expertise: The transfer of management to NatureConnect underscores the importance of having an organization that understands its subtle details in outdoor education, ensuring that the space is used to its maximum potential while respecting its historic essence.

Subtopic: Bonding History and Future Opportunities

The interweaving of Skyliners Lodge’s storied past with its envisioned future stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to its heritage. As the lodge, once home to the pioneering Skyliners Club and a recognized masterpiece of Depression-era architecture, embraces cutting-edge safety measures and modern management practices, it simultaneously preserves its status as a living piece of history. This bond between history and the future artfully illustrates how local treasures can adapt without sacrificing the fine points that make them special.

For educators, event planners, and outdoor enthusiasts, the lodge is more than just a building—it is a symbol of the enduring connection between community and nature. The opportunities that lie ahead, including hosting weddings, reunions, and corporate retreats, add layers to the lodge’s well-established role in the educational niche while also opening up new avenues for revenue generation through community engagement. The shared goal is to ensure that Skyliners Lodge continues fulfilling its mission as a versatile and engaging space.

A Collaborative Vision for the Future

At its heart, the story of Skyliners Lodge now revolves around collaboration—a harmonious blend of community spirit, expert management, and the resilience of local institutions. The facility’s ongoing operations and the planned renovations serve as reminders of the importance of working together to address those confused bits and stumbling blocks that stand in the way of progress. As stakeholders adjust to the nonprofit-led model, the ongoing dialogue between past and present ensures that the lodge’s role in the local community remains as super important as ever.

Both NatureConnect and the former educational district share a common vision: fostering connections to the great outdoors while ensuring that historical sites like Skyliners Lodge are preserved for future generations. Their cooperative approach highlights a broader narrative where public-private partnerships and community-based initiatives help figure a path through challenges that might otherwise strain public resources to the breaking point.

Table: Key Strategies for a Successful Transition

Strategy	Outcome
Securing Targeted Grants	Ensures timely renovations and improved safety standards
Establishing Diverse Rental Programs	Generates a steady revenue stream to support ongoing programs
Leveraging Community Partnerships	Strengthens the bond between local educational institutions and community groups
Focusing on Core Outdoor Education	Provides kids with essential, hands-on learning experiences

Community Engagement: A Win-Win for All

Skyliners Lodge is set to continue playing an essential role in bridging the gap between educational institutions, family events, and historical preservation. Community members who have supported the lodge over the decades now find themselves in a position where their input and enthusiasm are considered central to the facility’s ongoing success. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of NatureConnect and the continued interest from local stakeholders, the lodge is not simply surviving a financial transition—it is thriving as a hub for creative, outdoor-centered activities.

For parents, educators, and local officials alike, Skyliners Lodge is a reminder that history and progress can go hand in hand. The hands-on experiences available there not only enrich the minds of young learners but also foster a deeper appreciation for the natural heritage that defines Central Oregon. When you visit or attend an event at the lodge, you’re part of a tradition stretching back nearly a century—one that continues to welcome community members with open arms.

Subtopic: The Ripple Effects on Local Tourism and Engagement

Beyond its roles in education and private events, the revival of Skyliners Lodge has notable implications for local tourism. With the infusion of state-of-the-art safety measures and a proactive outreach strategy led by NatureConnect, the facility is poised to attract visitors from near and far. Here are some of the anticipated ripple effects:

Boost in Local Tourism: As the lodge becomes a more popular venue for weddings and special events, surrounding businesses like restaurants, lodging, and outdoor outfitters can expect increased patronage.
Strengthening Regional Identity: Skyliners Lodge, by hosting community events and field trips, contributes significantly to the identity of Central Oregon as a region where outdoor education is celebrated.
Enhanced Educational Outreach: With bookings now available 18 months in advance, the facility’s calendar is poised to support a wide array of outdoor education programs, benefiting both students and educators.
Cultural Preservation: Retaining the historic charm while implementing necessary updates ensures that future generations can experience a tangible connection to the past.

This multifaceted approach to community engagement signals that the revitalization of Skyliners Lodge is about more than just a building—it’s about enriching lives, supporting local businesses, and reinforcing a shared cultural identity that is deeply woven into the fabric of Central Oregon.

Concluding Thoughts: A Legacy Reimagined

In conclusion, the transformative journey of Skyliners Lodge under the stewardship of NatureConnect serves as a powerful reminder that even what appears to be an overwhelming challenge can be turned into an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and innovation. By working through the confusing bits and balancing delicate financial and historical considerations, local leaders have successfully set the stage for a future where community and education coexist harmoniously in a place steeped in rich tradition.

As NatureConnect takes the wheel, steering through the twists and turns of renovation and program management, the lodge stands poised as a dynamic symbol of resilience. Educators can look forward to a refreshed venue filled with creative opportunities for kids to interact with nature, while community members can enjoy a versatile space that respects its past and embraces its future. Whether it’s a school field trip, a family reunion, or a corporate retreat, every event hosted at Skyliners Lodge will contribute to a legacy that is both historical and forward-thinking.

Ultimately, the story of Skyliners Lodge is not just about keeping an old building open—it’s about affirming a commitment to outdoor learning and the shared heritage that binds our communities together. As we watch this historic landmark evolve, we are reminded that progress is best achieved when creativity, community, and a respect for history come together. With NatureConnect at the helm, Skyliners Lodge is set to continue serving as a super important community hub, ensuring that the magic of the outdoors remains accessible to everyone for generations to come.

In these ever-changing times, the collaborative vision unfolded at Skyliners Lodge offers guidance on how we can all find our way through intricate challenges by embracing new opportunities, securing diverse funding, and nurturing a deep connection to the natural world. As we look ahead to the coming months of renovation, innovation, and vibrant community activity, one thing remains clear: the legacy of Skyliners Lodge is being reimagined, ensuring that its story continues to inspire, educate, and bring people together in a celebration of history, nature, and shared humanity.

Bullet List: A Roadmap for Future Success

Enhanced Safety and Renovation: A robust, fire-resistant roof installation safeguards the building’s future while honoring its historical character.
Community-Centric Programming: An expanded event schedule benefits educational institutions, families, and local businesses alike.
Sustainable Financial Strategies: Diversified revenue streams ensure consistent maintenance and continuous educational programming.
Collaborative Partnerships: The melding of expertise between nonprofits and local agencies sets a positive example for future public-private ventures.
Long-Term Vision: A commitment to outdoor education strengthens community ties and fosters meaningful interactions with nature.

As this new chapter unfurls, stakeholders across all areas—from educators and event planners to local business owners and historians—can take heart in knowing that a beloved local institution is set to flourish once more. With NatureConnect leading the way, Skyliners Lodge is not only witnessing a period of renewal, but is also emerging as a model for how historic sites can adapt gracefully to meet contemporary challenges without losing the essence of what makes them truly special.

This collaborative spirit, coupled with strategic investments in both infrastructure and community engagement, provides a blueprint for similar projects nationwide. It offers a clear message: when communities join forces, even the most intimidating and nerve-racking challenges can be transformed into opportunities that benefit everyone. By finding your way through the subtle details, managing your path with care, and remaining open to creative solutions, Skyliners Lodge stands as a proud beacon of what can be achieved when history and future aspirations converge.

In reflecting on the lodge’s storied past—from its roots with the Skyliners Club to its celebrated status among Depression-era rustic resorts—it is evident that its impact extends far beyond its physical confines. It represents an enduring commitment to preserving a culture of outdoor adventure, educational enrichment, and community solidarity. The work done today at Skyliners Lodge will echo into the future, inspiring a new generation to explore, learn, and appreciate the natural world as a priceless resource.

Thus, as the new roof goes up and NatureConnect fills the calendar with exciting events slated 18 months in advance, every visitor, every student, and every community member will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the transformative power of outdoor learning. The renovated lodge will not merely be a venue for events; it will remain a living monument to a legacy cherished by many—a legacy that continues to evolve, inspire, and unite.

In closing, the evolution of Skyliners Lodge under NatureConnect’s vigilant care stands as a shining example of how communities can take charge, embrace change, and create a future that honors both its past and its dreams. It reminds us that every challenge, no matter how overwhelming it might initially seem, holds within it the potential for renewal and growth—if only we are willing to reach out, work together, and take bold steps into a brighter future.

Originally Post From https://bendbulletin.com/2025/05/05/outdoor-learning-nonprofit-to-take-over-operations-of-historic-forest-lodge/