Oak Knoll Nature Camp - About Camp

At Oak Knoll Nature Camp, we believe it’s important that children learn and grow through their interactions with nature as well as with each other. 

We provide opportunities for structured free play, during which campers of various ages and developmental stages interact, learn important social skills, and gain appreciation for nature. We also believe in connecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities with nature to enhance quality of life and to spark an interest in preserving nature for future generations.

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

At Oak Knoll Nature Camp, no two days are alike! But this sample schedule gives an idea of activity types and flow. Camp programs are structured around fun, educational group goals that provide consistency throughout the session. 

Daily themes inspire curiosity as campers participate in age-appropriate activities, which might include nature and habitat exploration, crafts, games, and more.  

Camp Staff

Oak Knoll Nature Camp staff are dedicated and mature educators, naturalists, and students who are looking for more than “just a summer job”. They have experience working with youth, a passion for nature, and a deep commitment to sharing that connection with children. Camp educators foster a caring, fun, and emotionally and physically safe environment to create a cohesive and enjoyable experience for campers. 

All staff undergo an extensive interview process, reference and background checks, are CPR and first aid certified, and receive training in child development, natural history, environmental education best practices, and health and safety procedures. In addition, we have access to an on-call doctor, and local EMS services within four miles. 

From day one of our intensive two-week staff training, we seek to foster a unique sense of community and initiative among the counselors. Each counselor brings something unique and valuable to the camp experience, and by fostering their teaching styles and ideas we enrich our camp every year. We’re confident their passion makes Oak Knoll Nature Camp one of the best summer experiences available to kids. 

Interested in joining our camp team? Email us your cover letter, resume, and three references! 

Camp Leadership

South East Regional Camp Director Jacqui Shuster (she/her) began her camp career here at North River. During her time at Bridgewater State University, where she graduated with a BS in Biology, she worked closely with turtles, birds, and snails while doing research in the field. 

From there she spent time in the Adirondacks and Tucson, Arizona where she worked for various community, educational, and outdoor programs. Jacqui returned to Massachusetts and began her time working as a Camp Counselor and Teacher Naturalist at North River Wildlife Sanctuary.

Her passion for the outdoors and connecting people to their community has led Jacqui to her place as Mass Audubon’s South East Regional Camp Director. Here she oversees North River Nature Camp in Marshfield and Oak Knoll Nature Camp in Attleboro. After the camp day, Jacqui enjoys gardening, hiking, and spending time with her pets.

Assistant Camp Director Ryan Gould (he/him) started his career in the camp industry as a camp counselor at the Kent County YMCA. He soon transitioned into the role of Nature Specialist; developing and teaching campers earth science curriculum.

After graduating with a B.A. in Geography from Keene State College, Ryan worked on service learning projects in elementary & junior high schools throughout Rhode Island. There he led educational programs and classes for afterschool groups; teaching a variety of programs ranging from music to writing and even NASA-collaborated STEM science projects.

After some time working as a lead teacher for school-age students in West Warwick, he ended up as a camp counselor right here at Oak Knoll Nature Camp. Working at Oak Knoll helped him bolster his passion for both the outdoors and environmental education. Outside of camp, Ryan loves camping, canoeing, and playing music with friends!