A Day at Arcadia Nature Camp | Sample Schedule

Arcadia campers hiking a trail

No two days are alike at Arcadia Nature Day Camp in Easthampton, but this sample schedule provides an idea of activity types and daily flow.

8:45–9:30 am

Camper Check-In & Games

Counselors welcome their campers and remind them of where to put their backpacks and lunchboxes. To start the day, campers can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor games and activities such as nature puzzles.
9:30–10 am

Opening Circle, Daily Nature Theme, Mystery, & Riddle

Camp groups gather in small groups to learn about the week’s theme as well as what adventures await them. At this time they also learn about the Riddle of the Day, sing songs, and participate in theme intro activities.
10–10:30 am

Snack

Groups break for snack at the picnic area or along the trails.
10:30–Noon

Morning Hike and Activities

Weekly themes are reinforced through trail explorations and nature study. Activities that engage and deepen learning may include catching insects in the pond or field, searching for salamanders, and hiking to the sanctuary’s clay pits, to name just a few!
Noon–12:45 pm

Lunch, Games, & Stories

Campers eat lunch, listen to stories, and play games. Younger camp groups learn about the Critter of the Day.
12:45–1:45 pm

Choice Time

After lunch, campers can choose from a quiet activity (crafts), something middle-of-the-road (a hike to search for animal homes), or something active (games in the field).
1:45–2:45 pm

Small Group Time

Campers gather in small groups to engage in theme-related activities. One group might play a game while the other makes a bird mural, then the groups switch.
2:45–3 pm

Closing Circle

Each group gathers for their closing circle to solve the Riddle of the Day and reflect on the day’s activities. Campers and counselor share their favorite parts of the day, providing an opportunity for all voices to be respectfully heard.
3–3:15 pm

Camper Pick-Up
3–4:30 pm

After Camp Program (Optional)

Available July 9-August 17. During this optional program, campers may go on a short hike, play games, or enjoy crafts. Preregistration required.

What Others Are Saying . . .

“Our child said he enjoyed learning about the history of the land, like finding coal and an old trolley line. He came home with lots of great nature knowledge.”—Camp Parent

“Our child loved the outdoor games, hikes, and climbing the observation tower. She found it thrilling and it also made her feel capable.” —Camp Parent