Fern & Feather Nature Camp | About Camp
Welcome • Rates & Dates • About Camp • Day Camp Policies
Our Philosophy
Discovery takes center stage at Fern & Feather Nature Camp! Through hands-on learning, campers explore their surroundings to better understand nature as well as how they can help preserve it.
Our camp program is designed to connect children to their surroundings and instill a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Our goal is to foster awareness and appreciation of nature, teach responsibility for the environment, and promote an understanding of our place in nature. Camp activities are carefully planned to meet these goals and create fun and memorable experiences.
A Day at Camp
No two days are alike at Fern & Feather Nature Camp, but this sample schedule gives an overview of daily activities and flow.
| 8:45–9:15 am | Camper Drop-off & Choice Time Counselors welcome their campers |
| 9:15–9:30 am | Morning Circle The whole camp gathers together for an introductory activity, playing name games, and going over rules for staying safe at camp. And of course, there is always singing! |
| 9:30–10:30 am | Nature Theme Introduction & Snack This may include activities such as pond dip-netting, looking for caterpillars, or searching for animal tracks, to name just a few. |
| 10:30 am–noon | Activities & Explorations Groups explore the trails and habitats as they learn more about their themes. This may include activities such as catching frogs, looking for caterpillars, or searching for signs of deer, to name just a few. |
| 12:00–12:45 pm | Lunch & Story Time Lunchtime, followed by a story or quiet activity. Half-day campers (Discoverers) are also picked up at noon, unless registered for the extended day option. |
| 12:50 pm–2:15 pm | Nature Activities, Crafts, & Games Counselors reinforce concepts about the daily nature theme through special art projects, games, and exploration. |
| 2:15 pm–2:45 pm | Full-Day Camper Pick-up |
Camp Staff
Our staff members are chosen for their enthusiasm, experience, knowledge, inclusivity, and ability to work with children in the outdoors. They are college graduates or undergraduates currently enrolled in an environmental and/or educational field of study. 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
Sydney Pigott (she/her) is a new addition to the Felix Neck team and has many years of experience as an environmental educator and naturalist. She is Island-born and cherishes the unique wildlife found on Martha’s Vineyard. During the school year, she loves engaging with students, leading school programs for all ages to explore the wonders of the natural world.
Josey Kirkland (she/her) is excited about her eleventh summer working with Mass Audubon. Throughout the year, Josey manages the education efforts of the Islands region with a big focus on climate justice and accessibility. Outside of work, Josey is a big fan of swimming in the ocean, hanging out with all her animals, and cooking.
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.
The 2023 Camp Handbook will be available for download in spring 2023.
Credentials
Camp License
Our camp complies with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430) and is licensed by the Edgartown Board of Health.
American Camp Association (ACA) Accreditation
We are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. Developed exclusively for the camp industry, this nationally recognized program focuses on program quality, health and safety, management, and camp operations.
Camp Policy Requests
You may request copies of our background check, health care, discipline, bullying, and grievance policies at any time. Request copies of our policies >