Financial aid available to schools to visit Indiana's state parks

Educators interested in taking K-12 students on field trips to an Indiana State Parks property in the 2025-2026 school year can receive financial help through the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation (INRF). 

Grants from the Discover the Outdoors field trip grant program are available for all K-12 educators.

“The Foundation’s mission is to celebrate and preserve Indiana’s natural legacy,” said Jody Kress, INRF executive director. “This grant gives children an adventure that showcases some of Indiana’s natural and cultural treasures and teaches the importance of protecting and preserving them for everyone to enjoy.” 

Since the grant program’s inception in 2013, a total of 287 grants have been awarded, providing the opportunity for more than 25,200 students to visit state parks at less cost to the schools and students.

Indiana has 24 state parks, eight state-managed lakes, two state recreation areas, and two off-road state recreation areas eligible for field trip funding that will engage students in learning about Indiana's fish, forests, wildlife, natural habitats, conservation, and outdoor recreation opportunities. 

“These trips help children understand the significance and diversity of Indiana's natural and cultural resources, and at the same time lets them make great memories that they will carry into adulthood,” said Ginger Murphy, deputy director for stewardship for DNR State Parks.

The maximum grant award is $500 per application. The grant may cover the school’s transportation costs, program fees, and other applicable material costs.

Applications are accepted from March 15–April 30 prior to the school year for which the grant is requested. Applications must be postmarked or emailed no later than April 30. 

Applicants will be notified by May 15 regarding potential grant awards. The grant application is at on.IN.gov/state-park-group-programs. Read more about the impact this grant has had at indiananrf.org/the-inrf-difference/education.