The L.A.N.E. at Arrowhead Ranch has quickly become a beloved community gem, where the joy of nature-based play resonates with every laugh, every bike ride, and every shared moment of discovery. Designed with care and supported by the Olson Foundation, this space is fulfilling its purpose—nurturing young minds and creating lasting memories in a one-of-a-kind outdoor classroom.
What was once a ¾-acre empty field has blossomed into the Little Arrowhead Nature Explore (L.A.N.E.), a thoughtfully designed outdoor classroom created to meet the needs of children aged five and under. The community recognized the importance of providing a dedicated space where young children could learn through nature, play, and exploration, fostering a deep connection to the outdoors from an early age.
Starting in November 2023, the project team hired experts to evaluate and certify the Nature Explore outdoor classroom concept and create detailed plans. Thanks to a generous grant from the Olson Foundation, a contractor was hired to bring these plans to life. Groundbreaking began in March 2024, and by September 2024, the ambitious project was completed, turning the vision into a reality.
L.A.N.E. offers a variety of activity stations designed to stimulate creativity and movement, including a xylophone and stage for music and dance, a bump track with bikes and helmets, a water pump with buckets, and climbing areas featuring rocks and trees. This thoughtfully crafted environment encourages children to get dirty, explore, and learn in a way that’s both fun and memorable.
Funded with nearly $500,000 by the Olson Foundation and maintained with an additional $23,500, the L.A.N.E. outdoor classroom is managed by the Coalition of Stanwood, Camano Island, and hosted at Arrowhead Ranch. Families rave about this unique space nestled near a working cattle ranch, and love the fact that their children can learn by playing and getting dirty.
"The joy that it brings the staff to see families come and enjoy the space and hearing them laugh and play the instruments and ride the bikes and...its truly fulfilling its purpose." Says Marla Heagle at the Arrowhead Ranch, "The only time I have ever heard a child cry is because they had to leave."
