Summer Camp Guide: For Nature Lovers

Rye Nature Center Camp 

Rye
(914) 967-5150; ryenaturecenter.org

Guided by some of Westchester’s best naturalists, campers here get a summer packed with adventure and ecological exploration. Set on 47 acres of forest and trails, the camp is paradise for kids who love to spend time outside. Employing a hands-on approach to scientific inquiry, the focus is on connecting children to nature by making environmental stewardship fun. That means activities like exploring ecosystems, science experiments, gardening, and hiking. The camp offers three different age-based programs, all organized around weekly themes such as animal adaptation, geology, and “snazzy science.” 

Ages: Entering pre-K through eighth grade Dates: Weekly sessions from June 29 to Aug 14 (M-F, 9 am-12 noon or 9 am-3 pm) Fees: $270-$455 per week, based on age group and length of stay Transportation: No

Farm Camp at the Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture

Pocantico Hills 
(914) 366-6200; stonebarnscenter.org

The next crop of farm-to-table enthusiasts is sure to find a home here, where camp activities mimic daily life on a farm. Kids get their hands dirty collecting eggs, harvesting veggies, and helping with animal chores and garden work. Activities are timed to match the goings-on of the farm—so campers will help with the garlic harvest in July, while picking tomatoes will be a prime activity for August attendees. Campers also participate in hands-on culinary and creative activities that connect them to food, farming, and nature. A camp chef helps campers prepare healthy snacks several times per week, and older campers will cook a full lunch together in a professional kitchen. These potential future farmers also have fun with crafts, games, and hiking.

Ages: Entering first grade through entering eighth grade Dates: One-week sessions: Aug 10 to 21; two-week sessions: June 29 to Aug 7 (M-F, 9 am-3:15 pm) Fees: $380-$420 for one week; $756-$840 for two weeks Transportation: No