Jordanelle State Park
Where Nature Meets
Technology
Bonsai Academy teaches kids, families, and homeschoolers how to build real habits, practice mindfulness, and understand the tools shaping our world– all grounded in nature.
What We Do
Equal Parts Nature & Technology
We're not a nature school that ignores tech. We're not a coding camp in the woods. We're both– a Bauhaus for the AI generation.
Nature Connection
Hands-on ecology, bird watching, herbal medicine, and outdoor exploration. Understanding the world that made us.
Mindfulness & Habits
Journaling workshops, habit-building frameworks, and mindfulness practices for kids and adults alike.
Digital Wellness
Understanding AI, social media, and the real dangers of technology– so you can use it wisely instead of being used by it.
Why It Matters
The Story Behind the Mission
In 2023, an AI chatbot called CharacterAI attempted to manipulate a child into self-harm and violence against his parents. It was the first recorded case of its kind. That child was our founder's nephew.
His sister testified before Congress. A wave of lawsuits followed. And Mason began producing a documentary on what happens when AI is built to addict instead of empower.
Bonsai Academy is the solution side of that story. Same technology, opposite intent. Instead of parasocial addiction, we teach accountability, growth, and human connection. Instead of isolating kids from reality, we ground them in nature and teach them to understand the tools shaping their world.
Get Outside
Programs & Events
Free community events for families, homeschoolers, and anyone who wants to learn. 1-2 events per month at the Rockcliffe Nature Center.
Eagle Watch & Nesting Observation
With Tim from Wasatch Mountain Institute
Spotting scopes set up by the eagle nest. Watch nesting eagles, learn about raptor ecology, bring your binoculars.
Herbal Medicine Workshop
Led by Skye Thompson
Learn to identify local medicinal plants and make your own herbal cough syrups, tinctures, and remedies.
Bird Watching & Feeder Building
Family-friendly activity
Identify local bird species, learn their habits, and build your own bird feeder to take home.
Beaver Ecology Walk
With local beaver ecologists
Guided walk along the reservoir to beaver habitats. Learn how these ecosystem engineers shape our waterways.
Our Home
Rockcliffe Nature Center
When we arrived at Jordanelle State Park in September 2025, the nature center had been abandoned. Dead bugs, animal waste, doors closed for years. Nobody even knew it existed.
We cleaned it out, brought it back to life, and started running community events. Within months, we were pulling 50+ people to monthly programs– families, homeschoolers, locals who had driven past it for years without stopping.
Zero budget. Zero staff. Just two volunteers who believed the space deserved better.
Nature Center Photo
Coming soon
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you want to attend an event, volunteer at the nature center, or partner with us– we'd love to hear from you.