Wachusett Meadow Nature Camp | About Camp
Welcome • Rates & Dates • About Camp • Day Camp Policies
Our Philosophy
At Wachusett Meadow Nature Camp, we believe it’s important to provide children with hands-on experiences that help them to feel comfortable in nature. Through various activities and explorations, campers come to understand their place in the "web of life" while having fun and making friends. We also provide opportunities for structured free play, during which campers gain appreciation for our inter-connectedness with nature and each other.
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.
A Day at Camp
No two days are alike at Wachusett Meadow Nature Camp, but this sample schedule provides an idea of activity types and daily flow.
| 8:00–9:00 am | Before Camp Program (Optional) During this optional program, campers will spend the morning engaged in quiet games or crafts. Registration required. |
| 9:00–9:30 am | Camper Drop-off & Choice Time 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. |
| 9:30–9:45 am | Opening Circle Campers learn about the day ahead! |
| 9:45 am–12 pm | Morning Hike, Snack, Story, & Exploration 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 glacial boulder, to name just a few! |
| 12:00–1:00 pm | Lunch & Free Play Campers eat lunch and enjoy free play time. |
| 1:00 pm | Camper Pick-up for Preschool Naturalists Caregivers bring IDs and sign their campers out as counselors say farewell. |
| 1:00–3:15 pm | Afternoon Hike, Snack, & Activity After lunch campers enjoy a second session of activities similar to the morning. The hike is often shorter and on hot days, water games are often included. |
| 3:15–3:30 pm | Closing Circle Campers share their adventures from the day. |
| 3:30-3:45 pm | Camper Pick-Up Caregivers bring IDs and sign their campers out as counselors say farewell. |
| 3:30–5:00 pm | After Camp Program (Optional) During this optional program, campers may go on a short hike, play games, or enjoy crafts. Registration required. |
Camp Staff
Camp staff are carefully selected for their enthusiasm, caring attitude toward children, and ability to interact with youth in an outdoor setting. 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 Director
In addition to directing Wachusett Meadow Nature Camp, Elizabeth Broughton (she/her) is part of Mass Audubon’s year-round education team, coordinating and teaching homeschool programs for wildlife sanctuaries in the Central region, school and scout groups, and programs for families. She also serves as Wachusett Meadow’s resident caretaker and enjoys her scenic walking commute to work. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in microbiology and was a stay-at-home mom for many years while raising her four children. In her role as Camp Director, she is inspired by a love of all things nature and her commitment to educate people of all ages and abilities.
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 Princeton 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 >