About Arcadia Nature Camp
At Arcadia Nature Camp, discovery takes center stage.
Campers are encouraged to explore and appreciate the miracles and mysteries of our natural world. Through hands-on learning, they come to understand their place in nature as well as the importance of preserving it.
Our philosophy is to have fun and make friends while learning about the natural world. Through hands-on activities, campers come to understand their place in nature as well as the importance of preserving it. We provide opportunities for structured free play, during which campers of various ages and developmental stages interact, learn important social skills, and gain appreciation for nature and each other.
A Day at Camp
No two days are alike at Arcadia Nature Camp. Here is a sample schedule can give you an idea of activity types and daily flow.
Schedule | Activities |
---|---|
9:00–9:15 am | Camper Drop-off & Games |
9:30–10:00 am | Opening Circle, Daily Nature Theme Introduction, Mystery Item, and Riddle |
10:00–10:30 am | Snack |
10:30 am–noon | Morning Hike and Activities |
12:00–12:45 pm | Lunch, Games, and Stories |
12:45–1:45 pm | Choice Time: Games, Crafts, or Nature Play |
1:45–2:45 pm | Theme-Based Activity Time and Snack |
2:45–3:00 pm | Closing Circle |
3:00–3:15 pm | Camper Pick-Up |
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
At Mass Audubon Camps, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and caring camp environment where each person is respected and supported in their learning and growth. Learn more
Terrain
Due to the outdoor and exploratory nature of our camp program, campers will be moving on uneven terrain throughout the day. The terrain at our sites varies from hard-packed, gently sloped paths to steeper, uneven trails that may have exposed rocks, tree roots, and other obstacles. Additionally, weather conditions could affect our trails’ conditions. We encourage all families to visit the sanctuary prior to enrolling to understand its unique terrain.
Camp Staff
Our caring, well-prepared camp staff are actively engaged in teaching and playing with campers. Camp staff bring their enthusiasm for outdoor exploration, a desire to facilitate learning, and a compassionate heart for children.
This specialized team works to foster a sense of community among campers and individual connections with nature. Summer staff are carefully selected based on their enthusiasm, teaching experience, natural history knowledge, and deep commitment to engaging campers with nature.
All staff undergo background checks, are certified in CPR and first aid, and receive training in health and safety procedures, child development, natural history, and environmental education best practices.
Camp Leadership
Camp Director Tim Donner (he/him) is a dedicated educator and naturalist with over 20 years of teaching experience. This will be his third summer at Arcadia and he is excited to help facilitate the incredible camps that happen at the sanctuary. Tim loves combining his appreciation for nature with his commitment to kids’ learning through hands-on activities and self-discovery. Tim’s favorite part of camp is watching campers follow their curiosity, have those “Aha!” moments, and create lifelong memories.
Assistant Camp Director Dorri Jones (she/her) began her Arcadia adventure as a Hummingbird counselor in 2015 and has been involved with camp almost every year since. She is endlessly enthusiastic about nature education and fostering curiosity, two things our camps have always strived to cultivate. Dorri believes there is great power in ending the day with dirt under your fingernails, and she loves sharing moments of play and inquisitive learning with campers, CITs, and fellow staff.
Camp Handbook
The Camp Handbook packet contains important information for families, including drop-off and pick-up instructions, health and safety procedures, packing lists, and more. Please be sure to read this prior to the start of your camper’s first session.
Coming soon
The camp counselors are wonderful and accepting of all different ways kids can be. My child loves coming, and the focus on nature, conservation, and science is a perfect fit for him.
Camp License & Accreditation
Our camp complies with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430) and is licensed by the Easthampton Board of Health. We are accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA).
Goals, Inclusion & Expectations
Learn more about our goals for all camps, how we make camp inclusive, accommodations for campers with disabilities, and behavior expectations
Camp Policy Requests
You may request copies of our background check, health care, discipline, bullying, and grievance policies at any time.
Contact Us
Call 413-584-3009 or email [email protected] to reach our camp staff.