🌲 Outdoor & Nature for Kids on the Main Line

Little Explorers is a kids program offered through Haverford Township Parks and Recreation. Contact the department for more details on activities and scheduling.

Camp Conrad Weiser is located in northeastern Pennsylvania, 30 miles east of Hershey. An outdoor overnight camp experience for kids in a scenic natural setting.

Youth hiking and outdoor adventure programs offered through Radnor Township Recreation in partnership with Hiking Hound Adventures. Kids explore local trails, nature, and the outdoors in guided group hikes. Builds confidence and appreciation for the natural world.

Radnor Nature Science Camp runs two-week sessions at Radnor's natural areas and parks, teaching children ages 6–13 about local ecology, wildlife tracking, and environmental stewardship. Campers explore forests, wetlands, and meadows while completing nature journals and habitat projects. Sessions run weekly throughout July and August.

The Great Valley Nature Center offers after-school and weekend nature programs for children in Easttown Township, exploring local habitats, bird watching, and stream ecology. Programs run seasonally and focus on hands-on outdoor discovery in the greater Easttown area. Family nature nights are hosted monthly throughout the school year.

The Cynwyd Heritage Trail Nature Club meets monthly in Bala Cynwyd to lead guided explorations of the Schuylkill River corridor and surrounding woodlands for school-age children. Activities include wildlife identification, pollinator garden care, and trail cleanup projects. Family registration welcomed; no experience required.

The Gladwyne Nature Center provides outdoor education programs for children ages 4–14 in the woodlands and meadows of Lower Merion's Gladwyne preserve. Seasonal programs include wildlife tracking, plant identification, and ecological monitoring alongside hiking and free nature exploration. Summer camp and school-year half-day programs available.

Outdoor adventure nature camp for ages 4–13 with activities including arts and crafts, nature hikes, field games, and weekly themes such as Riverbend Animals, Messy Science, and Summer Camp Classics. Tuition support available for SNAP/EBT families.

Guided nature walks along the Cynwyd Heritage Trail in Bala Cynwyd, designed for families and young children. Volunteers teach kids to identify local birds, plants, and insects along this restored rail trail. Free and open to all ages.

The Junior Ranger Program at Valley Forge National Historical Park invites children near Paoli to explore history and nature through self-guided activities and ranger-led tours. Kids earn a Junior Ranger badge upon completing the activity booklet. A wonderful introduction to national parks.

Environmental education and recreation programs at the Community Recreation & Environmental Center (CREC), including outdoor nature exploration, animal habitats, water cycle studies, stream life investigation, and summer camps for children.

June 13, 2026|10:30 am - 12:00 pm

An outdoor nature program for kids at the Haverford College Arboretum. Children explore the natural world through hands-on activities in a beautiful arboretum setting.

An outdoor adventure-focused summer day camp where kids explore the natural world and develop confidence and independence. All meals and materials are included in one flat rate.

The YMCA's Zoo on Wheels program brings animal ambassadors and environmental education directly to schools and community groups throughout the area. A fun and interactive way for kids to learn about wildlife without leaving their location.

An outdoor after-school story time at Shai Shacknai Memorial Park featuring stories and songs for children ages 3 and up. No sign-up required — just drop in!

June 7, 2026|10:15 am - 11:15 am

Week-long outdoor summer camp on Riverbend's 30-acre preserve in Gladwyne. Campers hike, explore animal habitats, conduct science experiments, play nature games, and enjoy hands-on outdoor learning. Themed weeks include Messy Science and Sunny Science. Before and after care available.

Single-day nature camps offered on school holidays and breaks at Riverbend Environmental Education Center. Activities include hikes, outdoor exploration, crafts, science experiments, and hands-on environmental education on a 30-acre preserve.

Tyler Arboretum offers summer camp, year-round classes, and fun programs for kids and families featuring nature exploration. A wonderful outdoor and nature-based learning experience.

A bike safety event for kids held in Berwyn, PA, teaching children important cycling safety skills in a fun rodeo-style format. Takes place at TE Connectivity.

Stoneleigh is the public garden of nonprofit Natural Lands. The garden provides joy and well-being for thousands of guests every year through inspiring displays of native plants that support local eco

The YMCA is committed to providing experiences for children and families to develop and foster a greater appreciation for the natural world.

A fun bike safety rodeo event for kids held in Berwyn, PA. Children can learn important bike safety skills in a hands-on, engaging environment.

Explore over 20 acres of diverse habitats including woodlands, wetlands, meadow, and more than 5 miles of trails at the Cassatt Preserve. Activities include bird walks, hikes, and canoeing, with over 130 bird species recorded on the grounds.

Kids learn about hawks and owls through up-close encounters with resident birds that serve as educational ambassadors alongside the raptor care team. All birds are permanent residents from wildlife rehabilitation centers and cannot be released to the wild.

Children interact with goats, sheep, and chickens while learning about the importance of farms and daily farm work right on the Main Line. A hands-on agricultural experience popular with visitors, students, and campers alike.

Through service projects, field trips, and outdoor adventures, students develop into confident and responsible environmental leaders. The program emphasizes environmental literacy and stewardship for young participants.

Silkie's Farm is a sustainable alpaca farm offering agritours, fiber classes, and farm-based programming for kids and families. A unique outdoor and nature experience.

June 6, 2026, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM@Burke Park

One-hour outdoor lunchtime gatherings that blend science, art, and community, designed to bring joy and curiosity to kids and families. Programming centers on accessibility, biodiversity, and connection with nature.

Join Riverbend's Educators to learn about the lifecycle of amphibians and see tadpoles in action at the preserve. Open to individuals and families with children of all ages.

Family Day at the Barnes Arboretum Plant Sale offers a day full of creativity, exploration, and springtime fun for kids and families. Visit the Maguire Art Museum for activities alongside the annual plant sale.

June 11, 2026, 7:00 PM@Borough/McGuigan Hall, 2nd Floor, 1 E First Avenue Malvern, PA 19355 and on zoom

Experience a magnificent display of native spring blooms at Mt. Cuba during Wildflower Weekend, featuring live music, gardening activities, and outdoor family programming over three full days.

Tyler Arboretum offers summer camp, year-round classes, and fun programs for kids and families featuring nature-based exploration. A wonderful outdoor learning environment rooted in the natural world.

A spring bird banding event at Rushton Conservation Center in Newtown Square. Kids and families can learn about birds and wildlife conservation up close.

A fun, 30-minute guided nature walk designed for the whole family, using tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars to explore the sights, sounds, and scents of the Gardens. Recommended for adults and children of all ages.

A themed, family-friendly guided hike at Oakbourne Park where children ages 3–8 spot plants and animals to fill their nature bingo card. Each hike combines exploration, education, storytelling, and hands-on experiences on easy, engaging trails.

A Father's Day kids fishing derby held at Peace Valley Park in Doylestown. A fun outdoor event for kids and families to enjoy fishing together.

An outdoor-focused summer day camp on the Haverford College campus where campers explore and develop skills in a nature-based setting. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included in a full-day program.

An overnight camp for girls in grades 1-12 where campers unplug from screens and engage with nature, creativity, and leadership through outdoor skills, crafts, and equestrian programs. Open to all girls, not just Girl Scouts.

Burn Brae Day Camp is a day camp program for kids located in Dresher, PA. Contact them at 215-657-3388 for more information.

Experience the beauty of spring at Longwood Gardens with early spring bulbs, flowering trees, radiant tulips, and fragrant blooms across the landscape. A wonderful family outing to enjoy nature in full bloom.

Families can dig into history with real archaeological excavations at Newlin Grist Mill, learning about the site through hands-on exploration. Free and open to all ages, with hands-on participation limited to ages 5 and up; no reservations required.

Enjoy a scenic wagon ride out to the Easter Bunny's den where kids can meet the Bunny and receive a special egg with a token for a free treat at the market. A fun-filled family outing for the Easter season.

A kids-only fishing event at Kerr Park where children can keep up to 2 fish each, with encouragement to practice catch and release for any fish they don't want to keep.

An eco-focused camp for young children ages 5-7 held at the beautiful Willows Mansion in Villanova, PA. Kids explore nature and the environment in a hands-on setting.

Ranger-led nature walks and hikes exploring the natural, cultural, and historical resources within Chester County Parks. All participants must register in advance.

Archery activities offered through Chester County Parks and Preservation as part of their outdoor recreational programming. All participants must register in advance.

Evening family hikes through Chester County Parks, offering a unique outdoor experience for families of all ages. All participants must register in advance.

Habitat restoration and tree planting activities for families and youth through Chester County Parks and Preservation. All participants must register in advance.

Riverbend offers nature-based Scout Programs at their 30-acre preserve in Gladwyne, PA. Scouts can explore meadow, woodland, stream, and pond habitats while working toward nature and conservation-related achievements.

Year-Round Adventure Camp gives kids ongoing access to outdoor exploration and nature-based activities at Riverbend's preserve. A great option for families looking for consistent outdoor education beyond the summer months.

Kick off summer by getting back to nature with high-energy group games, outdoor activities, and team-building challenges. Includes a field trip to an outdoor treetop adventure park.

Campers become ecology experts by exploring nature trails and creeks, crafting with natural materials, and building animal habitat models and terrariums. Includes a field trip to the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science.

A nature-focused preschool program at the Schuylkill Center that connects young children to the outdoors in Philadelphia.

An 18-hole disc golf course open to all skill levels — beginners, intermediate, and advanced players. The course is located at Haverford Reserve with parking along Parkview Drive.

A crowd-favorite field trip where students compare adaptive mechanisms of mammals and plants, and learn about habitats and the needs they meet for wildlife. Designed for Grades 2-5.

An annual spring event where families can learn about the lifecycle of amphibians and observe tadpoles in action. Open to individuals and families with children of all ages.

A nature-based summer camp at the Schuylkill Center, inspiring curiosity and a love for the outdoors in Philadelphia.

An 18-hole disc golf course at Haverford Reserve open to all skill levels — beginners, intermediate, and advanced players. Free and open to the public from dawn to dusk.

Students explore plant life at Haverford Reserve, learning about flower anatomy, what plants need to survive, pollinators, and searching the ecosystem for signs of flora. Designed for Grades 2-5.

Kids can learn about hawks and owls at the Raptor Center, where resident birds serve as educational ambassadors after being rescued from wildlife rehabilitation centers. An engaging way for children to appreciate birds of prey and wildlife conservation.

The YMCA offers tailored field trips and scout group activities at its Environmental and STEM Education Complex, including watershed exploration, stream ecology, and animal ambassador encounters. Groups can also inquire about overnight campouts and Zoo on Wheels outreach programs.

Families and children can explore over 20 acres of diverse habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows through bird walks, hikes, and canoeing at the Cassatt Preserve. With over 130 bird species recorded and 5 miles of trails, it's an ideal outdoor adventure for nature lovers.

A specialty summer camp focused on environmental education and nature exploration at the 54-acre Camp UMLY campus. Can be combined with Specialty Sidekick Camp for full-day care.

Tyler Arboretum offers summer camp, year-round classes, and fun nature-based programs for kids and families.

An annual Earth Day celebration featuring exhibits and vendors sharing sustainable and earth-friendly tips, demos, and products. The event is held rain or shine and is open to the whole family.

Hands-on habitat restoration activities such as tree plantings, helping kids and families contribute to conservation efforts in Chester County Parks. All participants must register in advance.

Ranger-led owl prowl programs introducing families and kids to local wildlife in Chester County Parks. All participants must register in advance.

Riverbend's Summer Camp connects kids to nature through outdoor STEM education and free play in a 30-acre preserve near Philadelphia. Registration is currently open.

Children and families can visit the Nature Center to meet 19 animal ambassadors, including insects, reptiles, and mammals. A wonderful hands-on experience for kids to connect with and learn about wildlife up close.

The YMCA offers special programming for scout groups and overnight campouts at its 54-acre Environmental and STEM Education Complex. Kids can explore nature, visit animal ambassadors, and participate in outdoor adventures in a unique setting.

Kids learn about history and colonial life through hands-on farming activities and historic crafts in an interactive and educational camp experience. Campers enjoy group activities, take-home crafts, and a supervised swim in Ridley Creek.

Stoneleigh is the public garden of nonprofit Natural Lands. The garden provides joy and well-being for thousands of guests every year through inspiring displays of native plants that support local eco

Volunteer – Spring GardeningJune 9, 2026|8:30 am - 11:30 am

Outdoor survival skills, nature exploration, and hiking summer camp in Radnor Township.

Fishing skills and outdoor education camp for children in Radnor Township.

Kids fishing introduction class from Radnor Township Recreation. Learn casting, fish identification, and outdoor skills.

Located on a scenic 54-acre property in Berwyn, the Upper Main Line YMCA Environmental and STEM Education Complex offers seasonal programming, summer camps and special events as well as outreach activ

Environmental & STEM Education Director

Located on a scenic 54-acre property in Berwyn, the Upper Main Line YMCA Environmental and STEM Education Complex offers seasonal programming, summer camps and special events as well as outreach activ

Explore a watershed, learn about stream ecology or visit with our animal ambassadors for your next field trip or scout activity.

The Cassatt Preserve has over 20-acres of diverse habitats including woodlands, wetlands, a meadow, the headwaters of Darby Creek, plus over 5 miles of trails. Over 130 species of birds have been reco

The Nature Center, which opened in 1998, is the home of our 19 animal ambassadors. Visitors, campers and students all enjoy meeting our animal ambassadors and learning more about the myriad of insects

Our barnyard is home to a colorful cast of goats, sheep and chickens. It is a popular destination for visitors to interact with farm animals right here on the Main Line. Throughout the year, our stude

Our Raptor Center is the home to various species of hawks and owls. All of our resident birds arrived from wildlife rehabilitation centers with a permanent disability that makes them unable to be rele

Disconnect to reconnect! Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply to try something new, the YMCA offers a wide variety of summer camps and outdoor programs across Chester County.

Did you know that kids ages 5 to 10 spend an average of up to six hours on screen media daily? Our camps and nature programs help kids to unplug and explore the outdoors through a wide variety of fun

At the Y, we build environmental literacy through top-notch nature and STEM programming for all ages.

Bring your group to us for an exciting day of hands-on learning OR let us come to you with our Zoo on Wheels!

From unforgettable adventures to a foundation of safety, expert staff, and meaningful values—everything you want in a camp is right here at YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

Volunteer – Spring GardeningJune 9, 2026|8:30 am - 11:30 am

June 7, 2026|10:15 am - 11:15 am

June 13, 2026|10:30 am - 12:00 pm

One price covers everything: lunch, snacks, supplies, extended day, and daily adventures...

A spring bird walk for families and kids at Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne. An outdoor educational experience focused on birdwatching.

An outdoor nature program at Riverbend Environmental Education Center exploring the life cycle of tadpoles and frogs. A hands-on science experience for kids and families.

Toughkenamon, (610) 268-2619,newgardenflyingfield.com/future-aviatorsDay • ages 7–15 • aviation

Downingtown, (610) 269-3646,paradisefarmcamps.orgDay and overnight • ages 5-15 • outdoor activities, team building

Gladwyne, (610) 527-5234,riverbendeec.orgDay • ages 4-11 • adventure, exploration

Norristown, (800) 652-4143,elmwoodparkzoo.orgDay • Ages 6–13 • adventure, animals, conservation

Scientists are conducting research at Valley Creek Park to support bat conservation efforts in Pennsylvania.

Environmental Advisory Council Meeting

Students explore Haverford Reserve searching for signs of animals, learning about bird migration, squirrels, worms, and water critters. Designed for Grades K-1 and addresses science standards 3.1.

Hands-on outdoor learning experience where students explore soil critters, composting, and different types of soil at Haverford Reserve. Designed for Grades 1-5.

Students learn about the water cycle and investigate the streams at Haverford Reserve, discovering macroinvertebrates and how water travels through the environment. Designed for Grades 2-5.

The Upper Main Line YMCA offers nature and environmental education programs on a scenic 54-acre property featuring a preserve, nature center, barnyard, raptor center, and STEM labs. Programs include bird walks, hikes, canoeing, STEM activities, and watershed exploration for children and families.

Summer Concerts, Community Garden & Holiday Lights

GIS & Mapping

A gentle outdoor story time for little ones featuring songs, read-aloud books, and puppets centered around nature themes. A wonderful introduction to spending time outdoors for young children.

An outdoor day camp in Gladwyne focused on fun and free play including hiking, stream-stomping, and bug-catching for campers of all ages.

Central to our mission is fostering the appreciation and understanding needed to protect our natural world. Our goal is to get children out of the classroom and into the outdoors to make science come

Riverbend believes connecting children to nature is a vital component for well being. We’ve built our mission, our vision, our staff, and  our space around this core belief.

Aqua Pennsylvania, Riverbend, and Upper Darby School District Collaborate to Bring Environmental STEM Program to Nearly 1,000 Fifth GradersRiverbend, Aqua, Upper Darby School DistrictRead MoreRiverben

An intensive farming camp at the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation where older kids engage in hands-on agricultural activities and learn about historic colonial life. Campers enjoy group activities and a supervised swim in Ridley Creek.

From the vibrancy of spring azalea blooms to the contemplative architecture of tree branches in winter, there is always something to enjoy, discover, and learn at Jenkins.

An all-girls residential summer camp founded in 1921 located in Poland, Maine, rooted in simple living, nature appreciation, tolerance, and building lifelong friendships. The program fosters independence, resilience, and a complete camp experience.

Screen-free, nature-filled summer camps where children explore streams, hike trails, catch bugs, create art, and conduct hands-on science with experienced educators. Age-specific programs with weekly themes help kids build confidence, curiosity, and a love of the outdoors.

Children can interact with goats, sheep, and chickens at the YMCA's barnyard while learning about farm life and the daily responsibilities of caring for animals. A popular hands-on experience right on the Main Line.

Summer camp programs held on the YMCA's scenic 54-acre property in Berwyn, incorporating the Environmental and STEM Education Complex. Offers a variety of outdoor and enrichment activities for kids.

A family-focused day at the Barnes Arboretum Plant Sale full of creativity, exploration, and springtime fun. Families can enjoy hands-on activities and the beauty of the spring season together.

A family-friendly guided tour of Tyler Arboretum's bluebird nesting boxes, where curious kids and adults can observe eggs and nestlings up close. Learn about cavity-nesting birds and how to help them thrive at home.

An overnight youth campout for families and friends at Mercer County Park in West Windsor Township, NJ. A great outdoor adventure experience for kids and their families.

Through service projects, field trips, and outdoor adventures, students develop into confident and responsible environmental leaders. The program fosters a sense of stewardship and connection to the natural world.

HELP SUPPORT THE SCHUYLKILL CENTERand enjoy benefits including discounts on bird seed, our gift shop, tickets to events, our newsletter, access to over 180 national nature centers, priority registrati

IF YOU FOUND AN INJURED WILD ANIMAL, the Schuylkill Center Wildlife Clinic can help! At the Wildlife Clinic, our goal is to provide professional care to sick, injured, and orphaned native wildlife so

Join us for a hands-on Beginner Fly Casting Clinic led by experienced instructors fromVFTU on Sunday, June 28.