best nature programs in Hartford County, CT

In 1979, a group of committed Darien citizens founded the Darien Nature Center with the mission of teaching respect for and understanding of the environment. The founding Board of Directors was composed of individuals active in local organizations such as the Audubon Society, the Conservation Commission, the Darien Community Association, and Darien Public Schools. To start, the Nature Center held summer programs in Darien public schools and as the interest in the cause grew, the search for a permanent home began. Today, the Darien Nature Center has become a place to learn about and appreciate the beauty of nature, while connecting with the local community. As a hub for environmental action and stewardship, the Nature Center offers a variety of educational programs and hands-on experiences for all ages. Through these activities, the center strives to foster a love of nature and encourages people to take action to protect and preserve the environment.

At The Clever Crayon, we believe in sparking imaginations and fostering creativity! Our classes combine sensory, music, stories, and art projects to bring out the creative side of each child. We offer a variety of themes such as transportation, the beach, color exploration, and the great outdoors, to name a few. Older groups can enjoy learning about and recreating famous works of art, architecture, and construction. We even offer customize-able birthday parties in the comfort and convenience of your own home, with fun activities like birdhouse painting and flower pot decorating. Let The Clever Crayon help you unlock your child's natural imagination and creativity!

The Central Connecticut Coast YMCA is a charitable, not-for-profit, community service organization dedicated to putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice. Our programs build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, and we strive to help our community and families in the twenty-four towns and cities in the Greater Bridgeport and New Haven areas. At the Y, we offer something for everyone. Our youth development programs help children reach their full potential, our healthy living programs promote an active and balanced lifestyle, and our social responsibility programs strengthen the foundations of community and family. YMCA Camp Hi-Rock is also part of the YMCA family. Located in Mount Washington, MA, Camp Hi-Rock offers a wide range of programs and services for kids and adults of all ages. From summer camp and outdoor adventure to team-building activities and more, Camp Hi-Rock has something to offer everyone.

As parents, we understand the importance of instilling a love of nature in our children. That’s why the Connecticut Audubon Society is such an important part of our communities. Through their conservation, education, and advocacy efforts, they protect and promote the natural habitats of our local wildlife, and help children and adults learn more about the environment. With 21 wildlife sanctuaries and over 100,000 children and adults educated yearly, the Connecticut Audubon Society is a great resource for parents and kids alike. They offer a range of programs and activities that foster a deeper appreciation of nature and the importance of environmental preservation. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities for your family or interesting ways to teach your children about the environment, the Connecticut Audubon Society has something for everyone.

Are you looking for a way to make the most of your child’s early learning years? Tinkergarten is the answer. Designed by education experts and loved by all families, our play-based outdoor curriculum helps parents raise healthy, confident, and capable kids. With live, weekly sessions, an at-home curriculum, and a rich learning community, Tinkergarten makes fulfilling outdoor play doable for every family. Tinkergarten is more than just a curriculum. It’s a community. Through our engaging activities and sessions, you and your child can get outside and explore the world around you. With our guidance, you’ll learn how to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities. With Tinkergarten, you’ll be able to give your child the best start in life.

At the Harwinton Public Library, we strive to meet the informational, cultural, and recreational needs of the citizens of Harwinton. We offer an extensive collection of print, multimedia, and electronic resources, as well as cultural program offerings. Our highly-trained professional staff and support personnel are dedicated to providing the best possible service to our patrons. We understand that having access to the right information is crucial in today's world. That's why the Harwinton Public Library is committed to providing our patrons with the resources they need to stay informed and entertained. From our organized collection of print, multimedia, and electronic materials to our cultural program offerings, we have something to suit everyone's needs. The Harwinton Public Library is proud to be backed by a team of highly trained professionals and support staff. They are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of service and helping our patrons find the resources they need. We believe that our staff are the foundation of the library and are committed to ensuring their continued success.

The Academy building is the perfect place for the citizens of Town Hall to get their business done. Offices for Parks and Recreation, Information Technology, Facilities, and Probate Court are all located right there, making it convenient for residents to access the services they need. The Academy facility isn’t just a place for business, though. It’s also home to the Teen Center, a gym for gymnastics, and multi-purpose rooms. Plus, there’s a softball field and Skate Park right on the property, allowing kids and adults to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. No matter what you’re looking for, the Academy building has it all! With offices for Town Hall, a Teen Center, gym, multi-purpose rooms, and a softball field and Skate Park on campus, this building is truly a one-stop-shop for all your needs.

. The YMCA is more than just a place for physical fitness and recreation. Our Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility provide the foundation for all of our programs. Our programs focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, allowing us to strengthen the foundation of our community. We strive to make all of our programs accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstance. The YMCA has been a part of the community for over 90 years, offering a variety of programs and activities that promote healthy living and create opportunities for individuals and families to reach their greatest potential. We are committed to providing our members with a safe and welcoming environment where they can learn, grow, and find support in their community. When you join the YMCA, you are making an investment in yourself and in your community.

At the Greenwich Audubon Center, we strive to connect people to nature and foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment. Our goal is to empower individuals to become informed conservationists, taking ownership of their role in preserving and restoring nature. We focus on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats in order to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and the need for conservation. Our center has been in operation since 1943, and we offer a variety of educational programs and activities for children, adults, and families. We also host community events and field trips, as well as guided bird walks and bird banding. Our 686-acre sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitats, and our knowledgeable staff and volunteers are always eager to share their enthusiasm and expertise. Visit us today to explore, learn, and take part in our mission of conservation and restoration.

Friends of Brooksvale Park, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization founded to benefit the citizens of Hamden, Connecticut and the greater surrounding area. The goal of the organization is to provide environmental education, preserve and maintain the integrity of the park’s resources, and to serve as an advocate for the park. The organization is organized under the laws of the State of Connecticut and has no stockholders. Through the work of Friends of Brooksvale Park, Inc., citizens of the greater Hamden area will benefit from environmental education, protection, and advocacy for the park. The organization works to preserve the park’s natural and cultural resources, ensuring that the park remains a resource for the entire community. The non-profit, tax-exempt organization Friends of Brooksvale Park, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the greater Hamden area. The organization works to protect and preserve the park’s resources, and to provide educational opportunities for the community. Through the organization’s advocacy, the citizens of Hamden and the surrounding area can benefit from the park’s resources for years to come.

At the New Canaan Nature Center, we strive to foster a love and respect for the natural world. We are dedicated to teaching our visitors of all ages to appreciate, protect, and enjoy nature. Our staff provides a range of educational activities, including art, music, language, math, science, and creative play. We also offer guided hikes on the grounds of our Nature Center. Our preschool program runs throughout the school year, with themes that reflect seasonal changes in nature. We are committed to being a leader in environmental education and stewardship of natural resources in our community.

At Tinkergarten, we believe that active outdoor play is essential for children’s development. That’s why our education experts have designed an award-winning play-based curriculum that helps families get the most out of their kids’ early learning years. Our easy-to-follow weekly sessions, at-home curriculum, and supportive learning community make it easier for parents to provide healthy, confidence-building experiences for their children. With Tinkergarten, you can trust that your kids are getting quality outdoor play that’s fun and purposeful. Our curriculum is designed to help your family make the most of both the indoor and outdoor worlds. Through our live classes, at-home activities, and supportive community, you can provide your children with the skills, confidence, and curiosity they need to thrive. So go ahead and join the thousands of families who love Tinkergarten. With our play-based outdoor curriculum, you can trust that your children are getting the most out of their early learning years. So get ready to get outside – and have some fun!

J. Mortimer Woodcock, former Ridgefield First Selectman, founded the Woodcock Nature Center in 1972. Since then, the center has provided educational opportunities to thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds. With school field trips, summer camp, and enrichment programs, Woodcock Nature Center has made a commitment to immersing the community in direct experiences with the natural world. In addition to educational offerings, the Woodcock Nature Center partners with local organizations to present lectures, workshops, films, guided hikes, and child and caregiver classes. On-site animal encounters provide opportunities for the public to engage with and learn from nature. Woodcock Nature Center has been a staple of the Ridgefield community for nearly fifty years, and continues to bring people closer to the natural world.

The New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) has a unique educational model that teaches students important skills like leadership, teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving. These skills are critical for academic success. Plus, NESS is the only program of its kind to be accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Our STEM-based curriculum uses marine science, sailing, power boating, and adventure sports as learning platforms. We strive to give K-12 students from urban and suburban markets meaningful educational opportunities. We invite you to join us in this mission—whether online, in person, or on the water! NESS is committed to empowering students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Our program combines hands-on learning with traditional teaching methods. This approach equips students with the tools they need to become confident, responsible, and successful leaders. Join us and help us continue this important educational mission!

The Lucy Robbins Welles Library is a beloved fixture of the community. Opened in 1912, the library was named in honor of Miss Welles’ sister, Lucy Robbins Welles, who had bequeathed a generous sum of money and donated the land for the library’s construction. The original building still stands today, a testament to the community’s commitment to lifelong learning. Today, the Lucy Robbins Welles Library is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a variety of resources and services for the community. From books to digital materials, audio-visual equipment to special programming, the library continues to meet the changing needs of our community. With the library's rich history, it is a source of pride for the town and a reminder of the importance of learning and knowledge.

Welcome to the Town of North Haven! This charming community is an outstanding place to both work and live, offering a rural setting with easy access to the Interstate and Merritt Parkway. Recognized by the popular television show “Today in America” as one of the country’s hidden gems, North Haven has much to offer. We are proud of our exceptional school system, delightful neighborhoods, and countless recreational opportunities. North Haven is well-known for its rich tradition and wonderful amenities. From its spacious green spaces to its vibrant business district, this remarkable business and residential community is the perfect place to live, work, play and visit. Not only is it a great place to raise a family, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or simply a place to enjoy a day out, North Haven is the ideal destination. Come explore all this vibrant town has to offer and discover why it’s been featured on “Today in America” as one of the country’s hidden gems.

. Welcome to the Granby Recreation Department! We are proud to offer the Town of Granby a convenient activity registration system and website. To get started, simply create an account by entering all your household information. This information is essential for us to provide you with the best possible service - from emergency contacts and allergies information to automatically filling out your registration forms. All of this information will help us ensure that you and your family have the best possible experience with Granby Recreation.

The Darien YMCA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. We strive to create an environment of connectedness and belonging, which in turn grows our families and communities. Through our programs, services, and relationships we work to create a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The Darien YMCA has been part of our community for over 60 years and we’re committed to continuing our legacy of providing resources and encouraging healthy, productive lifestyles for generations to come. We believe that by fostering meaningful relationships, we can build a better world for our families and future generations.

The Elm Shakespeare Company is a non-profit organization that works to bring people together to enjoy a shared experience of their humanity through classic plays and performances. This noble goal can only be achieved if productions are created with intention and an understanding of the complexity of our community. To support their mission, the Elm Shakespeare Company relies on the generous donations of individuals like you. The Elm Shakespeare Company passionately believes in creating theater productions that bring people together in order to enjoy a shared experience of humanity. To do this, the company intentionally strives to create productions that address the complexity of our community. In order to keep their programs running, they rely on the donations of generous individuals. The Elm Shakespeare Company is a non-profit organization with an admirable mission - to bring people together and to create a shared experience of their humanity through classic plays and performances. In order to achieve this goal, the company strives to produce intentional productions that address the complexity of our community. This mission is only possible through the support and donations of individuals like you.

At Ambler Farm, we value our land, our heritage, and our animals. Through our immersive programs, we foster an appreciation and respect for each other, as well as our environment. Our family-friendly community events provide a place for neighbors to come together and build meaningful connections. We strive to create a sustainable farming system that preserves our heritage and encourages a healthier lifestyle. At Ambler Farm, our goal is to create a harmonious relationship between our environment and community. We provide a variety of activities and programs that are designed to help participants learn more about our land, our heritage, and our animals. We also provide educational opportunities and resources to build character and connection. Our sustainable farming practices ensure that our land is well cared for, while providing healthy, fresh produce for our community. At Ambler Farm, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming space for our neighbors to come together and enjoy happy and healthy gatherings. Our programs and events are designed to create meaningful and lasting connections, while celebrating our land, our heritage, and our animals. We firmly believe that cultivating an appreciation and respect for each other and our environment is the key to a better future.

Summer is just around the corner, and Hartford County 4-H Camp is ready to make it an unforgettable experience! Located in Marlborough, Connecticut, the camp offers eight one-week sessions of incredible fun for your children at an affordable price. Hartford County 4-H Camp is a non-profit organization that embraces the “Learning by Doing” philosophy and encourages children to develop their personal growth, build a sense of community, and cultivate a spirit of stewardship for the environment.

At Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens, we are dedicated to cultivating and developing a diverse collection of trees, gardens, and plants. Our mission is to make these available for everyone to explore, enjoy, and learn from. We believe that education and stewardship are key to creating a healthier, greener, and more beautiful environment. At Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens, our commitment is to provide an outdoor experience that is enjoyable and educational. Our tree, garden, and plant collections span a wide variety of species that are available for all to explore and appreciate. We know that by fostering education and stewardship, we can create a healthier, greener, and more beautiful environment for all to enjoy. We are passionate about our mission at Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens. Our goal is to provide an outdoor experience that is educational, enjoyable, and beneficial to the environment. Through our diverse collection of trees, gardens, and plants, we strive to create a healthier, greener, and more beautiful environment through education and stewardship.

Hill-Stead is the first architectural project of Theodate Pope Riddle, one of the first female architects in the U.S. Theodate designed the Colonial Revival mansion as a country home for her parents, and today it has over a million visitors since opening to the public in 1947. The 152 acres of gardens and grounds make Hill-Stead one of the nation’s few remaining representations of early 20th-century country estates. Visiting Hill-Stead is like taking a step back in time. The inviting and intimate museum gives its visitors a close-up, personal view of renowned masterpieces, textiles, and decorative arts that make it feel like you haven’t been cleverly taken to a historical era, but rather it has been carefully and creatively kept true and relevant. The museum’s collection of paintings by Monet, Degas, Whistler, Manet and Cassatt is a sight to behold and rivals artwork found in major art museums around the world. Theodate Pope Riddle was a true innovator and visionary, and Hill-Stead is a testament to her commitment to historic preservation and her passion for architecture. Her creation serves as a reminder of the beauty of the past, and a place to celebrate and understand the incredible pieces of artwork that still exist today.

The Indian Rock Nature Preserve is a special place that offers unique opportunities for groups and educational institutions. It is open to scheduled groups, schools, and events only, and does not have any public hiking trails. That said, those who are fortunate enough to have access can take advantage of a variety of activities, such as our summer camp, school field trips, family events, and facility rentals. At the Indian Rock Nature Preserve, visitors can enjoy an array of activities that are not available to the public. Whether it be a summer camp, school field trip, family event, or facility rental, this special place is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. It is important to note, however, that this nature preserve is open to scheduled groups, schools, and events only – there are no public hiking trails at this time. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, the Indian Rock Nature Preserve is the perfect place for you. With its unique offerings open to scheduled groups, schools, and events only, you’ll be sure to have a memorable time. From summer camp, to school field trips, to family events, to facility rentals, there’s something for everyone at the Indian Rock Nature Preserve.

The Hungerford Nature Center in Kensington is a great place for children and young adults to explore and learn. With a farmyard, indoor exhibits, and walking trails, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to interact with domestic animals and native wild birds. Picnic and play areas allow parents to relax as their children explore and discover new things. At the Hungerford Nature Center, we strive to strengthen our community by inspiring children and young adults to excel in school and to foster creativity, innovation, and life-long learning. We offer quality educational programs, interactive exhibitions, and unique museum collections that are sure to inspire young minds. Our mission is to provide a safe and enriching environment for learning and personal growth. The Hungerford Nature Center in Kensington is a great destination for families. We invite you to come explore our farmyard and indoor exhibits, take a stroll on our walking trails, and enjoy a picnic or play in our designated areas. Whether you’re looking to foster creativity, innovation, and life-long learning or simply enjoy time with your family, the Hungerford Nature Center is the perfect place for you.

Tinkergarten helps parents everywhere create meaningful outdoor experiences with their children. Our classes and at-home activities are designed to engage kids in the magic of the outdoors and provide them with the play-based, social, and physical skills they need to thrive. We recognize that each family is unique, so we focus on creating experiences that are both enjoyable and developmentally appropriate. Outdoor play is incredibly important for young children, and as parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure our kids have enriching experiences in the great outdoors. Making time for outdoor activities doesn’t have to be a challenge, however. With Tinkergarten, parents have access to the tools and resources to make outdoor play enjoyable and beneficial for their children. Our activities are designed to engage kids in the wonders of the outdoors and provide them with the social, physical, and play-based skills they need to thrive. We recognize that each family is unique, and the program is tailored to fit the needs of each child. At Tinkergarten, we make it easier for parents to give their children meaningful outdoor experiences. With our classes, activities, and resources, we’re helping parents everywhere create outdoor moments that are both enjoyable and developmentally appropriate.

Families are making the most of their kids’ early learning years with Tinkergarten’s play-based outdoor curriculum. Designed by education experts and beloved by all families, this curriculum helps parents raise healthy, confident, and capable kids. It’s easy to get started with weekly live sessions, an at-home curriculum, and a supportive learning community. Make outdoor play doable for your family with Tinkergarten. With Tinkergarten, outdoor play can be an enriching part of your family’s life. Education experts have crafted a play-based outdoor curriculum to help kids reach their full potential. And, families love it! Parents can use weekly live sessions, an at-home curriculum, and a community of other families to make sure their kids are healthy, confident, and capable. With Tinkergarten, you can make the most of your kids’ early learning years and get outside in a meaningful way. Tinkergarten makes purposeful outdoor play easy for any family. With a play-based outdoor curriculum designed by experts and loved by families, parents can help their kids become healthy, confident, and capable. And, with weekly live sessions, an at-home curriculum, and a learning community to support you, outdoor play can become a part of your family’s life. Make the most of your kids’ early learning years with Tinkergarten.

At Tinkergarten, we understand that physical and emotional health are essential foundations for children's development. That's why our current season focuses on Wellness- helping children to move their bodies, take risks, cultivate calm, connect with nature, and practice gratitude, joy, and kindness. To motivate kids to develop these skills, we offer them a collectable iron-on skill badge for every season. At Tinkergarten, we believe that learning should be fun and engaging. That's why we focus on one skill each season, building on the knowledge from the last. We want to give kids an incentive to keep learning, so they can earn a collectable iron-on skill badge for every season. Our current and upcoming seasons focus on Wellness, which provides children with a combination of physical and emotional health that they need to thrive. Through our Body, Mind & Heart lessons, we give kids chances to move their bodies, take risks, cultivate calm, connect with nature, and practice gratitude, joy, and kindness.

Camp Wepawaug is the perfect place for your child to make lifelong friends and memories that will last a lifetime! Our campers get to enjoy a variety of activities, from outdoor sports and nature exploration to creative arts and crafts. We also have a climbing wall for our more adventurous campers. Plus, with our STEM programming, campers can explore new sciences and try something new each week. No matter what level camper your child is – Greenhorn, Pioneer or CIT – Camp Wepawaug has something for them. Our caring and experienced counselors ensure that each camper learns while having fun, and that they leave with friendships and experiences to remember. So, why not give your child the summer of a lifetime at Camp Wepawaug?

Campers get to participate in activities such as swimming, archery, sailing, and crafts. With the help of our wonderful volunteers, we offer a chance for kids to just be kids. At Camp Rising Sun, we give kids aged 5-17 who have faced a cancer diagnosis the chance to be themselves and have some fun. Our camp is held at Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook, Connecticut – a beautiful campground set in the hills. We provide heated cabins for campers to stay in with other children of the same age, and a dedicated staff to help them. Thanks to our generous sponsors, camp attendance is free. Campers can take part in all sorts of activities, from swimming and archery to sailing and crafts. Our volunteers make sure that the children have a great time and can just be kids. We strive to give children affected by cancer a chance to relax and make friends.

Camp CONNRI in Ashford, Connecticut is an incredible opportunity for kids to explore and have fun in a safe and Christian environment. Located on 272 acres of rolling hills and overlooking a 50-acre lake, the camp provides a wide variety of activities for campers to enjoy. From swimming and hiking to baseball and volleyball, kids can have fun and stay active while being supervised by certified, experienced personnel. The camp is also proud to be accredited by the American Camping Association, the State of Connecticut, and The Salvation Army, ensuring the safety and welfare of all campers. Campers can also explore nature studies, arts and crafts, low ropes, and geocaching. With so much to do, there's no doubt kids will have an amazing experience at Camp CONNRI.

At Silver Lake Camp and Retreat Center, we strive to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming Christian community. Our staff and Board of Directors believe that everyone should have access to the many benefits of enriching and diverse experiences. We proudly accept campers, staff, volunteers, and guests of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation. If you have any special needs we should be aware of, please don’t hesitate to contact us so we can better accommodate your stay. At Silver Lake Camp and Retreat Center, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and intentional Christian community. We recognize that exposure to diverse expressions of humanity is essential to fostering mutual understanding and respect. We are proud to be a place of belonging for everyone, and we encourage anyone visiting us to get in touch with camp administration if they need any additional support or assistance.

At Camp An-Se-Ox, we know how important it is to feel comfortable and accepted. Our campers make wonderful friends and experience engaging activities that foster personal growth and self-confidence. With a variety of fun activities, such as swimming, hiking, and other outdoor sports, our campers are sure to have a great time while making lasting memories. Our Camp An-Se-Ox is the perfect place to foster new friendships and build skills. Our outdoor center is surrounded by wooded areas and open activity spaces, giving campers the opportunity to explore nature while learning new things. Whether it’s swimming in the lake or hiking the trails, our campers can take part in exciting activities and create lifelong memories.

At Camp Washington, we believe that every child deserves a safe, brave space to explore and grow. We emphasize personal involvement, education, and creativity, in order to create a place where our campers and staff can draw closer to God and discover His abundant love. Our campers can relax and recharge, surrounded by the beauty of God's creation, while feeling the inclusivity of a supportive community. We strive to make Camp Washington a place where all can find welcome and belonging.