In 1971 a collaborative agreement between Belwin and the Saint Paul Public Schools led to the development of the Belwin Outdoor Educational Center, which contains a 5,000 square foot educational center that serves as the hub for exploring the surrounding 225 acres dedicated to environmental education. The Saint Paul Public Schools designs and delivers the curriculum and Belwin manages, protects and restores its property.

Today, the Belwin Outdoor Educational Center is used primarily to host the Valley Branch Environmental Learning Center and several other visiting programs taught by Saint Paul Public Schools and other educators. Those programs include the Stillwater/St. Paul Partnership at Belwin and the Eastern Metro Integration District at Belwin.

However, Belwin Outdoor Educational Center also hosts land management workshops, as well as events and activities for Belwin members and prospective members and community residents.

Over 4000,000 students, teachers and volunteers have participated in environmental experiences at Belwin Outdoor Educational Center since 1971. The Belwin Outdoor Educational Center serves more than 10,000 students annually, plus others.

All activities involved and hosted at the Belwin Outdoor Educational Center offer children and families an opportunity to connect people to nature.