PIR Day Programs

When school is out, science is in!

Montana Outdoor Science School offers fun, hands-on PIR Day Programs that support families on days when schools are closed for teacher development. These single-day programs provide engaging, science-based learning opportunities for curious young minds — giving parents and caregivers a trusted, enriching childcare solution.

Led by experienced outdoor educators, each camp is built around a unique theme that taps into the natural wonders of our region. MOSS PIR Day Programs spark curiosity, deepen students’ connection to nature, and make the most of every no-school day.

2025 Fall PIR Day Programs

Time: 8:30am drop-off at Story Mill; 3:30pm pick-up at Story Mill

Ages: Grades K-6

Location: Crosscut Mountain Sports Center

Cost: $90 tuition + $5.20 registration fee per session – each day runs as a standalone program—sign up for one or all!

Dates and Themes:

Sept 29: Welcome to your Watershed: Which critters call our creeks home? Where does Bozeman’s water come from? Through macroinvertebrate explorations, map reading, and following our creeks, we’ll learn more about the Gallatin River watershed and Crosscut’s place within it!

October 16: Montanimals 1: If you like animals, this is the program for you! We’ll explore Montana’s biodiversity from the tiny to the terrific - including insects, amphibians, birds, fish, mammals and reptiles! We’ll look at characteristics, adaptations, animal sign, habitats and habits. Each day is different - sign up for both!

October 17: Montanimals 2: If you like animals, this is the program for you! We’ll explore Montana’s biodiversity from the tiny to the terrific - including insects, amphibians, birds, fish, mammals and reptiles! We’ll look at characteristics, adaptations, animal sign, habitats and habits. Each day is different - sign up for both!

November 6: Transitioning to Winter: How do plants and animals survive our cold Montana winters? Explore the Crosscut ecosystem while considering what our summer residents have been up to in preparation for the snowy season.

November 7: Magnificent Mountains: Explore the mysteries of mountains. How do they form? Who are they home to? How do things change as we go up in elevation? Mountain ecosystems include a fascinating mix of geology, weather, plants and animals, including people.

Questions? Drop us a line at education@outdoorscience.org

  • Payment Plans: The process to set up a payment plan is integrated into registration and will be available as soon as registration opens. Please email education@outdoorscience.org if you need a custom payment plan.

    Scholarships: Please email education@outdoorscience.org to inquire about scholarship availability.

    Sibling Discount: Households with multiple children registering for the same program receive a sibling discount. The first participant is full-price and each additional participant receives 5% off tuition. The discount is automatically applied in the shopping cart.

    PSP Discount: Public Service Professionals in Gallatin and Park counties are eligible for a 10% discount on MOSS camps. Please see the list of eligible professions below and enter your job description during the registration process.

    • Healthcare workers

    • Educators and staff of Pre-K – 12th grade schools in Gallatin and Park counties

    • First responders (law enforcement, firefighters, SAR, EMT)

    • Active military personnel

    Access to this discount is integrated into the registration process.

  • For cancellations made up to 15 days prior to the program start date, tuition will be refunded minus a $50 cancellation fee.  The ACTIVE registration fee ($5.20) is non-refundable.

    Cancellations made 14 days or fewer before the program start date will not be refunded. Refunds will not be issued for no-shows once a program has started.


    Cancellations can be made through your Active account. If you have any questions, email us at camps@outdoorscience.org.