About Habitat Nature Camp

Habitat Nature Camp has been engaging children in nature study since 1974. We are guided by a philosophy of discovery, providing campers with opportunities to explore, question, and connect in nature. We encourage campers, ages 4–14, to explore their surroundings and discover new interests and talents. We inspire campers to question and challenge their understanding of nature and their own place within it. Our camp community is welcoming and responsive, and connects new and returning campers to lasting friendships.

Our 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. We believe that diversity—both in nature and in our human communities—is essential to strength, resilience, and innovation, and we are committed to recognizing the unique contributions of each community member. 

To learn more about how Mass Audubon respects and embraces our campers’ and staff’s unique identities and needs, please review our Gender Inclusion at Camp policies and procedures.

Accommodations

Mass Audubon is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusion to ensure that everyone can participate fully in the magic of our nature programs.  As an outdoor, nature-based program, it is important that families of children who have disabilities understand Mass Audubon’s expectations, programs, and terrain prior to enrolling. 

If your child requires accommodations, please contact the camp director as soon as possible; a delay in request could have the unintended consequence of disrupting your child’s Mass Audubon camp experience.

Learn more about Accommodations and Behavior Expectations at Camp

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. 

A Day at Camp 

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

Our Camp Staff

Camp staff are carefully hired for their maturity and caring attitude toward children. They are environmental educators, teachers, and camp instructors—many of whom are former Habitat campers! Each member of the staff provides enthusiasm for outdoor exploration and a passion for education. Small group sizes ensure that campers stay safe and engaged.

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. Mass Audubon requires that all staff, regardless of their work location, disclose their vaccination status. Proof of vaccination status is required immediately upon hire. 

Camp Director

Habitat's Camp Director is Jane Higgins (she/her), who joined Habitat Education Center in 2000. Whether Jane is searching for caterpillars with Pathfinders, singing songs with Explorers, or teaching animal adaptations to Ecologists, a day at camp is a good day!

What Others Are Saying...

"My kids thought it was the best two weeks of their lives. The counselors are so genuinely there to support the young campers and it's clearly not just a summer job for them. The camp brought my kids SO much joy!" —2023 Camp Parent

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 2024 camp handbook will be available soon.