About Wachusett Meadow Nature Camp
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.
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.
| Schedule | Activities |
|---|---|
| 8:00–9:00 am | Before Camp Program (Optional) During this optional program, campers will spend the morning engaged in quiet games or crafts. Pre-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–noon | 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 Half-day Programs 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 for Full-Day Programs 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. Pre-registration required. |
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. Learn more
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.
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 2025 camp handbook will be available soon.
Camp License & Accreditation
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. We are accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA).
Goals, Inclusion & Expectations
Learn more about our goals for all camps, how we make camp inclusive, accommodations for campers with disabilities, and behavior expectations
Camp Policy Requests
You may request copies of our background check, health care, discipline, bullying, and grievance policies at any time.
Contact Us
Call 978-464-2712 or email [email protected] to reach our camp staff.