Spring 2026 RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER PROGRAMS:

​ March, April, and May
 

 

Special Event

MORRIS ARBORETUM & GARDENS - BUS TRIP

Wednesday, May 27


MORRIS ARBORETUM & GARDENS BUS TRIP
Wednesday, May 27      9:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The Philadelphia region is designated as America’s Garden Capital! Join Rancocas for a spring bus trip to the Morris Arboretum of UPENN. This 92-acre expanse features an ever-changing landscape of colorful gardens, champion trees, winding paths, sculptures, and water displays. Upon arrival at the arboretum, the group will participate in a guided “Garden Highlights” tour with stops at popular art, floral, and architectural features.
We will use a reserved area for lunch—bring your own or purchase a box lunch. There will also be time after lunch for self-exploration of the arboretum.
The trip is sponsored by the Rancocas Nature Center and includes charter bus transportation (from and to Prospector's Restaurant, Mt. Laurel), admission, guided garden tour, and driver gratuity. Cost: $84/per person; Box lunch: $15/per person. Registration for this event is available on the Rancocas website at MORRUS ARBORETUM
Payment secures the registration, and all sales are final. You can also register by mailing a check to Rancocas Nature Center, 794 Rancocas Road, Westampton, NJ 08060 or by stopping at the center. Final trip information and box lunch choices (if selected) will be sent via email to all registrants. Visit www.morrisarboretum.org for details about the gardens.

RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER EVENTS
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CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS   
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​TALES & TRAILS (Ages 3+)
Wednesdays, March 4 and 11     10:30 to 11:30 AM 
The Rancocas Nature Preserve welcomes spring! Join us for this free family-friendly children’s program. Each session will include a nature-themed storybook and a hike on the trails to explore the Rancocas habitats and is geared toward families with children 3 years and up—but babies in backpacks are welcome! This program is free (with a current Rancocas Nature Center membership). Inclement weather cancels. Register online at:  Tales & Trails
:​WOODSY WONDERERS (Ages 3 to 5)   Parental Participation Required
Fridays, March 13, 20, 27, April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29       10 AM to 12 PM
Let’s explore the outdoors and discover the wonders of nature! Each class will include a story, a nature exploration, student-led inquiry, and free play. Based on the “forest school” concept, this outdoor education model focuses on student interactions with natural spaces and offers hands-on learning in a woodland environment. This program is ideally outdoors and will take place in most types of weather including light drizzle/rain and cooler temperatures. The exception is heavy rain/winds, thunderstorms, or other unsafe weather when the class will be held indoors. Cost (with a current Rancocas membership): $15/per child/per class, Register for 5 or more classes for $12/per child/per class. Register online: Woodsy Wonderers
​LITTLE SPROUTS (Ages 2 to 6)
Wednesdays, March 18, 25, April 1, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, and 10      10:30 to 11:30 AM
This gardening program is for children ages 2 to 6 years old accompanied by an adult. Each session will focus on a different aspect of gardening and include work time in the garden, composting, a story, and a craft/activity. Please dress accordingly. This program is free (with a current Rancocas Nature Center membership). Inclement weather cancels. Register online at   LITTLE SPROUTS

TEEN/SCOUT PROGRAMS
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​Great Backyard Bird Count and Walk (Adults and Teens)
Sunday, February 15, 9:30 am to 11:00 am
Come participate with us or on your own. Seasoned birders are invited to bird the nature center and park grounds any time from February 13th through 16th and record their birds on ebird to have them included in the park totals for the weekend. Help get us on the map! New to birding? Join Mary Belko and Audrey Dorfy on a bird walk on Sunday, February 15 at the nature center. Space is limited so please be sure to register:  Bird Count & Walk.    Questions? email mary.belko@rancocasnaturecenter.org​
​MAPLE SUGARING FOR SCOUTS
Sunday, March 1   12:30 to 3:30 PM (staggered start times) 
What a tasty way to spend a late winter afternoon! Bring your scout or the whole troop/pack and enjoy a program about maple sugaring, the oldest continuous industry in North America. On this self-guided walk, visit multiple interactive stations along the Rancocas trails. Learn about the Sugar Maple tree and the history of maple sugaring, observe a tapping demonstration, and enjoy a maple syrup tasting. Please limit adults and extra siblings as this is a scout program. Our public Maple Sugaring, February 22, is designed for families, so please register for that if you want to attend as a family. To ward off the chills, we’ll have an old-fashioned campfire burning. Scouts will receive a keepsake Maple Sugaring Badge.  Cost: $15/per scout/ /sibling; $10/per accompanying adult. Start times are staggered. Register online at MAPLE SUGAR - SCOUTS
TEEN AND SCOUT CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER DAYS (Ages 13-17)
Saturday March 7        12:30 to 3:30 PM
Saturday, April 4        9 AM to 12 PM
Sunday, May 3         12:30 to 3:30 PM
The Rancocas Nature Center hosts monthly volunteer opportunities for supervised stewardship conservation projects. It’s a great way for scouts and other youth 13 to 17 years-old to get out into nature and accumulate service hours. Parental consent is required and parents are welcome to help, as well. Activities vary depending on the season but often include removal of invasive species and mulching native plant enclosures and gardens. Volunteers should bring water, work gloves, and dress in work clothes, including appropriate footwear. Upon request, letters can be provided for youth needing proof of service for Scouts, 4-H, Honors Society, etc. Register: TEEN SCOUT CONSERVATION
​SCOUTING AMERICA MERIT BADGE: BIRD STUDY
Sunday, March 8          All About Birds and Birding Workshop         9:30 AM to 4 PM
Sunday, March 29        Birding Field Trip           9:30 to 11:30 AM
Independent assignments: Requirement 13(either option) and Requirement 5 (10 of the 20 journal entries on your own; the rest will be done in class)
Would your scout like to earn their bird study badge? Our merit badge counselors are certified. While completing this badge with the nature center, scouts will learn about birds, their connections to the natural world, tips for identifying them, go on a bird field trip with other scouts, use binoculars and a scope, and have a chance to see birds in their natural habitats. This year’s field trip will focus on winter ducks and possibly raptors. One parent is required to join their scout for the field trip for the purpose of driving to 2-3 locations, locally within a small geographic area. Equipment will be provided. During the workshop day at Rancocas, scouts will have a half hour lunch break and two 15-minute breaks. Scouts should bring lunch, snacks, and drinks and dress appropriately for both indoor and outdoor activities. Participation on both days is required to complete the badge. ​For questions/information, contact meritbadges@rancocasnaturecenter.org.  
​Cost: $45/per scout. Register:  SCOUTING: BIRD STUDY.
​SCOUTING AMERICA MERIT BADGE: ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Sunday, April 26      Part 1: Workshop at Rancocas      9:30 AM to 3 PM
Sunday, May 17       Part 2:   12:30 to 3:30 PM
Independent assignments: TBD
Is your scout looking to complete the Eagle required Environmental Science merit badge? Our certified merit badge counselors have backgrounds in the environmental science field. In these workshops we consider real-life scenarios to better develop an understanding of some of today’s environmental issues and challenges, as well as some of the successes. Scouts (recommended for those 6th grade or older) must attend and participate in both workshops and complete all activities. Most activities will be done together--at least in part. Some independent work will be required in between the two workshops. Scouts and parents will be invited to our Google classroom, where most communication outside of the workshops takes place.
Cost: $50/per scout. For questions/information, contact meritbadges@rancocasnaturecenter.org.
Register online at: SCOUTING ENVIRONMENTAL

PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES   
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INTERPRETIVE TRAIL HIKE   
Sunday, March 8 and May 3      1:30 to 2:30 PM
Join Rancocas Nature Center for an interpretive hike through our varied habitats. It’s a great way to become familiar with the trails. You can bring a camera and/or binoculars as we’ll be sure to stop at scenic spots along the way. The hike is suitable for all ages 5+, so you’ll need a child carrier to transport younger children. Registration is limited to 20 participants. The program is free--a Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online: INTERPRETIVE TRAIL HIKE. Inclement weather cancels.
SCHOOL’S OUT—DROP IN AND MEET THE RANCOCAS ANIMALS
Friday, April 3       10:30 AM to 12PM      
Thursday, April 9        12:30 to 2 PM
Are you home from school this week? A naturalist will be available at the center to share a hands-on session with the Rancocas resident reptiles and tree frogs. All visitors are welcome. If the weather is nice, bring your lunch and enjoy a hike on the trails. Our picnic area will be open and free trail maps are available in the Visitors Center. NOTE: The Rancocas Nature Center is a carry-in/carry-out facility. The program is free-- Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation/per family/guest is suggested. Registration is not required. 
​NATURE JOURNALING FOR FAMILIES (Parent/Adult with Child ages 5 to 12)
Sunday, May 31      12:30 to 2:30 PM
Prep for the 2026 vacation season! Learn how nature journaling can enrich your family’s summer experiences by recording your adventures and explorations. In this workshop, each family will receive a nature journaling kit that includes basic supplies and activity ideas packaged in a weatherproof bag for on the go ease. The program will include designing a cover, practice time on the trails, and journaling tips guaranteed to create a meaningful keepsake for your family. Led by Teacher Naturalist Robin Sperry. Workshop cost: $25/per parent/child. Up to 2 additional children (ages 5-12) can be added per adult registrant for $10/per child.   Register online:  JOURNALING-FAMILIES

ADULT & TEEN PROGRAMS 


​(Programs are suitable for interested teens)
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​WOODCOCK FOR BEGINNERS: AMERICAN WOODCOCKS & THEIR AERIAL DISPLAYS
Tuesday, March 3      5:30 PM
Each year in the late winter, the American Woodcock move northward at the beginning of their breeding season. One of their migration stops is the Rancocas meadow– a reliable spot to catch the male of the species performing a fascinating aerial display to impress the female Woodcocks. Rancocas naturalist Patti Rehn will share an informative PPT presentation at
the Center, then lead an outdoor session in the meadow—a unique viewing opportunity. Program is free; Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at WOODCOCK BEGINNERS. Inclement weather cancels.
​HUMP-DAY AFTERNOON HIKE (Ages 18+ intermediate ability with multiple elevation changes)
Wednesday, March 4         2:30 to 4 PM
Like to hike, but don’t like doing it alone? Come on out for a brisk hike in nature—the perfect way to get some exercise incorporated into your day. Breathe deep, relax, and enjoy the weekly changes you observe as the season progresses. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online HUMP DAY HIKE. Inclement weather cancels.
​RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
Thursdays, March 5, April 2, and May 7         10 AM to 12 PM
All are welcome! Club meets the first Thursday of every month in the Rancocas Nature Center classroom or at a designated alternative outdoor location. Contact rncphotoclub@gmail.com for details.
​HUMP-DAY AFTER-WORK HIKES (Ages 18+ intermediate ability with multiple elevation changes)
Wednesdays, March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13, 20, and 27          5:30 to 7 PM (Daylight dependent)
Like to hike, but don’t like doing it alone? Come out for a brisk hike in nature—the perfect way to get some exercise incorporated into your day. Breathe deep, relax, and enjoy the weekly changes you observe as the season progresses.
The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online: HUMP-DAY 18+  Inclement weather cancels.
​SEASONAL STROLLS (Ages 55+) 
2nd Fridays, March 13, April 10, and May 8       10:30 AM         (Meet in the Rancocas Nature Center Parking Lot)
4th Fridays, March 27, April 24, and May 22         10:30 am        (Meet at Rancocas State Park-Westampton Parking Lot)
Join a 45-minute to 1-hour guided stroll to observe the seasonal changes in the Rancocas Nature Preserve and Rancocas State Park’s meadows, waterways, and woodlands with one of our teacher naturalists. We’ll use one of our easier trails--mostly flat ground with some roots. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested.
Register online at:  2nd FRIDAYS         4th FRIDAYS (Different Location)     . Inclement weather cancels.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH--MEET THE AUTHOR: DEBORAH BOERNER EIN
Sunday, March 15         2 TO 3 PM
Join us for Women’s History Month with a presentation by Deborah Boerner Ein, author of Mary Treat: A Biography and Mary Had a Little Zoo: All About Pioneer Scientist Mary Treat and Her Ants, Plants, and Spiders. Mary Treat was a 19th century naturalist whose studies coincided with those of Charles Darwin. She corresponded with the esteemed British scientist more than any other woman scientist, yet her life and contributions to the field of environmental studies have gone largely unrecognized for more than a century. Much of Treat's research was done in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. With access to the Treat files at the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society, Deborah conducted in-depth research to bring Treat’s story to light in her book. After the presentation, Deborah will sign copies of the book—a paperback version as well as a hardcover special edition that includes the 15 letters exchanged between Treat and Darwin. Books are also available from the publisher at MT BOOKS  or from links provided at www.marytreat.com. Register online at DEBORAH BOERNER EIN
 
​SATURDAY GUIDED WALKS
Saturdays, March 21, April 18, and May 16        10:30 to 11:30 AM
Studies show that taking a walk in a natural area is good for your physical and mental health. Adults and interested teens can join Rancocas Nature Center for a Saturday guided hike in the preserve. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at:  SAT GUIDED WALK. Inclement weather cancels.
CONNECT WITH NATURE: HOW TO HANDLE BRUSH AND DEAD WOOD ON YOUR PROPERTY RESPONSIBLY
Sunday March 22       11:30 AM to 1 PM
In March and April, when we do spring clean-ups in our yards and/or local parks, down trees and branches can pose a problem for homeowners and park stewards needing to make decisions about how to deal with all the debris. This midday talk/walk will share how park stewards deal sustainably with dead wood and how these ideas can be applied in your own yard or local preserved area. Staff Teacher Naturalist Robin Sperry will lead the presentation. The program is free—Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at DEAD WOOD & BRUSH
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ESCAPE ART: REVERSE GLASS PAINTING—INSECT IMAGES (ages 16+) 
Sunday, March 22      1:30 to 3:30 PM
Let’s think backwards! Join us as we paint in reverse on the back of a piece of glass. This surprisingly easy technique yields beautiful results! No experience necessary (we will be tracing photos, so don’t worry if drawing isn’t your strong suit). You can choose from a wide variety of insect images, but feel free to bring your own 4” x 4” photo. All supplies will be provided, including the frame. Workshop cost: $28/per person. Register online at GLASS-INSECT
​VOLUNTEER SPRING CLEANING AT THE RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER
Sunday, March 29           1 to 3 PM
Volunteer to help with a myriad list of smaller inside and outside center projects. For adults and youth ages 13 to 17 (with parental consent). Volunteer time can be applied toward community service hours. Registration is required. SPRING CLEANUP
 
​SPRING NATURE JOURNALING WALK (Ages 16+)
Sunday, April 12         1:30 to 3 PM
Bring your nature journal/sketchbook and join Teacher-Naturalist Robin Sperry for a hike on trails in the Rancocas State Park and nature preserve while journaling some of the wonders of spring. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at: SPRING JOURNALING. Inclement weather cancels. 
 
ESCAPE ART: WATERCOLOR WITH PLANTS (Ages 16+) 
Sunday, April 19      1:30 to 3:30 PM
Spring has sprung! Join us as we start this class with a short stroll to collect plant materials to use for this project. We will then arrange these natural items on watercolor paper and paint around them using watercolor paints, creating the most beautiful natural designs! No experience necessary. All supplies will be provided, and participants will be able to create multiple pieces of art on paper, including greeting cards, if interested. Workshop cost: $25/per person. Register online at: WATERCOLOR-PLANTS
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​WEEKDAY BIRD WALK AT RANCOCAS
Thursday March 19 or April 30       8 to 9/9:30 AM
New Jersey and Burlington County fall within the eastern flyway for spring migration. This is an amazing time of year to see many species of birds not in our area at other times. Rancocas associate naturalists will lead a spring walk through various habitats to see how many species of birds we can observe. All skill levels are welcome! Possible sightings will include migrants, seasonal species, and year-round residents. This is a relaxed pace, 1 to 1.5 hours walk. All skill levels are welcome. Bring binoculars and wear walking shoes. Loaner binoculars are available—reserve a pair ahead of time. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at:  WEEKDAY BIRD WALK-CENTER   Meet in the nature center parking lot. Inclement weather cancels.  
​WEEKDAY BIRD WALK IN RANCOCAS STATE PARK, WESTAMPTON (Irick Road entrance)
Tuesday. May 5          8 to 9/9:30 AM
Join Rancocas Nature Center associate naturalists in search of birds in the western section of the state park. In addition to year-round resident species, we hope to see seasonal migrants passing through. The trails are mostly hard sand or gravel, occasional hills, and a mix of wooded and open areas. This is a relaxed pace, 1 to 1.5 hours walk. All skill levels are welcome. Bring binoculars and wear walking shoes. Loaner binoculars are available—reserve a pair ahead of time. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at BIRD WALK-STATE PARK. Meet in the Irick Road parking lot. Inclement weather cancels.  
CONNECT WITH NATURE SERIES: ESTABLISHMENT OF AND CARE FOR YOUNG TREES
Saturday, May 30        2 to 3 PM
The benefits of planting trees are well-known, but it’s important to understand what they need to remain healthy. Join staff from the New Jersey Tree Foundation as they share information on the proper care and pruning techniques required for successfully growing young trees. Topics will include how to correctly plant a tree, young tree care and maintenance, and pruning small branches using hand saws and pruning shears. After a short presentation indoors, we’ll head outside to look at trees in the field and view a demonstration of correct practices. Dress for the weather including proper footwear. The program is free. A Rancocas Nature Center membership or a donation is suggested. Register online at CARE FOR TREES. For additional information on the presenting organization visit www.njtrees.org.

ADULT FIELD TRIPS  (suitable for interested teens)
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​BIRDING SANDY HOOK FIELD TRIP (Members Only)
Saturday, March 7        10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
This coastal location is excellent in late winter/early spring for seabirds, waterfowl, and the possibility of spotting seals and other wildlife. Who knows, maybe we will get lucky and see Horned Lark or Snow Buntings. We’ll be driving to various locations, but also be prepared for walking on the beach, with possible windy conditions. Spend the day exploring and birding this incredible place with knowledgeable Rancocas staff and associate naturalists including Mary Belko, Audrey Dorofy, and John McElroy. The exact meeting spot will be sent to participants via email the week before. Cost: $15/per person. Register online at:  BIRDING SANDY HOOK  space is limited. Inclement weather cancels.  
​CONNECT WITH NATURE SERIES FIELD TRIP: RANCOCAS CONSERVANCY WALK AND TALK
Saturday, April 4       10:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Join Rancocas Conservancy trustee, Steven Elliot and Rancocas Nature Center Teacher Naturalist, Mary Belko as they explore the trails in the Conservancy’s Black Run Preserve and recently acquired, adjacent Cold Spring Property in Evesham. Mary is knowledgeable about Pine Barrens habitat and Steve will share the history of the sites and the importance of their preservation, as well as the ongoing work the Rancocas Conservancy does locally in the Rancocas Watershed. The program is free. Donations to the Rancocas Conservancy at https://www.rancocasconservancy.org/ are suggested. Directions to the site and meeting location will be sent to registrants beforehand. Register online at COLD SPRING-EVESHAM. Inclement weather cancels.  
​BIRDING MICHAEL HUBER PRAIRIE WARBLER PRESERVE FIELD TRIP
Saturday, April 25        7:30 TO 10 AM
Join associate naturalists, Patty Rehn and John McElroy in search of warblers and early spring migrants at this Pine Barrens location. We will also be making a local side trip to look for the Red-headed Woodpecker. Directions will be emailed to registrants the week before, along with further directions/instructions. Cost: Free to Rancocas Nature Center members; $10/non-members. Register online at:  WARBLER PRESERVE TRIP. Space is limited. Inclement weather cancels. 

SUMMER PROGRAMS AT RANCOCAS

Seven Weeks of Summer Morning Outdoor Fun for Ages 4-12
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Tuesday, June 23 to Thursday, August 6

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays:  9:30am to12:00pm

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Childhood and the outdoors are a natural fit! At Rancocas, kids have fun while learning about the world around them. A typical morning at the Rancocas Nature Center will look to blend the natural sciences with active, outdoor experiences under the guidance of knowledgeable educators. Group interaction and cooperation create a positive setting where learning is hands-on. Whether it’s through an age-appropriate hike, a craft, a project, or a themed game or activity, children gain an awareness of the natural world and the importance of a sustainable community while enjoying the outdoors. Cost: (with a current Rancocas Nature Center membership) $25/per child/per day.
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Please Register at BOTTOM OF PAGE
Rancocas Nature Center Summer Program Themes 2026
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​Week 1: June 23-25 
Take to the Trails: Let’s get out and get moving, as we explore the trails, ponds, and streams to immerse ourselves in everything the nature center preserve has to offer. 
 
Week 2: June 30-July 2
Globe Trotting: The world is a big place! This week we will look at habitats beyond our park as we learn about nature around the globe.
 
Week 3: July 7-9
Journey Into the Earth: Whether it is exploring below the ground’s surface or digging into the earth, this week’s focus will be on discovering what’s beneath our feet. 
 
Week 4: July 14-16
Up, Up, and Away: For week four, we will look up to the skies and beyond our atmosphere to focus on the abundance of living and non-living components of the world above our heads.
 
Week 5: July 21-23
Connect the Drops: Water, water everywhere! Some of the questions we might explore this week are: Where does water go? How does it flow? And what lives in it?
 
Week 6: July 28-30
Travel Through Time: We will be travelling back in time this week to discover the natural history of our past and to make connections to life long ago. 
 
Week 7: August 4-6
Forging Ahead with Fun: Week seven is the last hurrah of summer! Whether we're working on creative projects, playing games, or enjoying our favorite summer activities, each group will have a week to remember.

PLEASE REGISTER BELOW
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Each of the four groups is limited to 16 children per day. Waitlist slots will become available when a group fills up.


We've tried to streamline the registration. Each "Registration" will be for a SPECIFIC GRADE LEVEL & CHILD.

We have Member Registrations and a Membership link for those that would like to become a member and participate in these events




MEMBERS ONLY - 

2026 SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION Per Grade Level = $25


PreK & K                          1st & 2nd 

     3rd & 4th                              5 to 7th  

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​ FAMILY MEMBERSHIP - REGISTRATION