Summer Camp (grade completed K-1) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Join our monthly Book Club for lively discussions and a shared love of stories centered on food, eco-farming, and nature. We explore a variety of genres—from fiction and nonfiction to mystery and more! This welcoming group is perfect for both new and seasoned readers. Enjoy great conversation, make new friends, and sampling delicious snacks (book not included). Sign up for one month—or join us every month!
Adults | $18.00 per class | $50.00 for the season | Sign in for Member discount
Only a few have ever heard the ghostly tales of Ashland….the secret passageways, the unsolved mysteries, the buried treasures. Brave families can join a storyteller for a walk along dark trails with a candle lantern. Uncover the mysteries of Ashland …and be on the lookout for glowing skulls and chattering nighttime creatures! Price per family.
Family | $25 | Sign in for Member discount
Choose your own adventure as we make stories come to life! Read or listen to a story. Write or illustrate your own personal storybook. It is up to you but take inspiration from the beautiful surroundings at Coverdale. Pre-registration recommended but not required. You can also register when you arrive if there are still spaces available.
Family | $25 | Sign in for Member discount
Discover the wonders of nature with your little one! Enjoy hands-on nature activities outdoors with our professional team of Teacher Naturalists.
Preregistration required.
Registration includes one child and one adult.
Preschoolers (ages 3-5) | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Take a naturalist guided boardwalk stroll to look for wildlife and see our live animal collection. Just drop in, or let us know you're coming by registering now.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register. Children are welcome but each child must be accompanied by an adult.
All Ages | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Summer Camp (grade completed K-1) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Summer Camp (grade completed 2-3) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Summer Camp | Daily, Mon-Fri | $390
Summer Camp (grade completed 2-3) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Welcome to another exciting season of Knee Highs at Abbott's Mill Nature Center! This spring and summer we will have a learning adventure on Wednesdays from 10:00 to 11:30 AM. Our theme is biodiversity (native plants and animals, and habitats). This season will be full of hikes, observations, and fun learning activities for kids 2-5 with a parent. Discover the wonders of nature with your little one! Enjoy hands-on nature discovery together outdoors with our Teacher Naturalists. Led by Teacher Naturalists.
Registration required. Adult participation required, free of charge.
Preschoolers (ages 2-5) | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Summer Camp (grade completed 7-9) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Online registration will end 2 weeks prior to the start of this camp. Please call 302-239-2334 for camp availability.
Summer Camp (grade completed #-#) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Kick off the season at Coverdale! Find your perfect Christmas tree (based on availability), create festive winter crafts and gifts at our DIY Workshop, and explore specialty gifts at the Winter Market. Join us for a joyful holiday experience.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
All Ages | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Join us for a fun, relaxed gathering where you can meet new friends, enjoy a short, light workout, and refuel with tasty refreshments. This is the perfect way to get moving, connect with others, and enjoy a little self-care—all in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere!
Registration required.
Adults | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Discover how everyday moments outdoors can nurture healthier, happier children. This workshop helps parents and caregivers understand the powerful role nature plays in child development—from boosting creativity and confidence to supporting emotional well-being for people of all ages.
We’ll explore simple, age-appropriate ways to introduce nature, from sensory experiences for infants to hands-on discovery for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. Learn realistic strategies to weave outdoor time into daily routines, encourage safe exploration, and build meaningful nature connections wherever you live.
Whether you’re new to the outdoors or looking to deepen your family’s connection, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and ready to help your child grow through the wonder of the natural world.
Registration required.
Adults | $38.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Step outside and explore the beauty of the farm! This relaxing guided hike invites families and friends to connect with nature, discover local plants and wildlife, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors. Perfect for all ages, this hike encourages curiosity, fresh air, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us.
Registration required.
All Ages | $5.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Rise and shine—it’s farm time! Start your day with a relaxing tour around the farm, say good morning to the animals, and enjoy a light, tasty breakfast. It’s a fun way to explore, sample, and soak in the magic of a fresh new farm day!
Registration required.
All Ages | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Hop on over for story time with our friendly bunnies! Children will enjoy a fun, engaging story, followed by a light snack for both kids and bunnies.
Registration required. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Children | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Preschoolers and their grown-ups are invited to a hands-on cooking adventure using simple, fresh ingredients from the farm. Together, you’ll mix, measure, and taste while exploring early math, science, and sensory skills. With safe tools and gentle guidance, little chefs build confidence and curiosity in the kitchen.
Each class ends with a tasty snack made side-by-side, giving children the joy of sharing something they created themselves.
Please note: This program is only for registered participant and 1 grown-up. We cannot accommodate siblings outside the age range.
Registration required. Registration includes one child and one adult. One adult per child registered.
Preschoolers (ages 3-5) | $25.00 | Sign in for Member discount
A hands-on preschool program where little learners explore the amazing world of weather! Discover the wonder of rain! Make rain art, learn about the benefits of rain in the world around us, and watch water in action.
Registration required. Adult participation required, free of charge.
Preschoolers (ages 3-5) | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Get ready, teens! Teen Chef Challenge is a hands-on cooking experience where you’ll test your skills, experiment with flavors, and get creative in the kitchen. Work in teams to tackle fun cooking challenges, learn new techniques, and compete in exciting cook-offs. Whether you’re a budding baker or a savory superstar, this program is all about teamwork, tasty creations, and showing off your culinary skills!
Registration required.
Teens (grade completed 7-9) | $75.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Join us to a read a story together and then participate in an extension activity.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register. Children are welcome but each child must be accompanied by an adult.
Children | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Summer Camp (grade completed #-#) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Bring the whole family and get a closer look at our marsh landscape and a unique view of the city skyline. Immerse yourself in the grassy domain of Great Blue Herons, American Beavers, and other marsh creatures on a paddle along the tidal Christina River. No paddling experience required. Instruction and equipment provided. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen! The perfect weekend activity that is fun for all ages. Adult participation required. Cost is per person.
Pre-registration ends 24 hours before event. Capacity is limited.
Families (ages 8+) | $35.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Butterflies will soon be fluttering around Ashland. Enjoy crafts, look for caterpillars, and drink tea! Plant a flower for the Butterflies to enjoy and take one home to start your own butterfly garden. Led by Erynn DeGennaro.
Family | $20 | Sign in for Member discount
Try to find as many as 8 species of owls in a day! Travel by van to multiple locations for resident owls such as Barred and Great Horned, plus wintering species like Short-eared and Long-eared Owls. We will also try to get good looks at diurnal raptors such as Peregrine Falcon, Bald Eagle and many others. Led by Jim White.
Adult | Member $35 | Non-member $50
Member Discount will be applied in the Shopping Cart (must be signed in)
Stick around after camp to play, explore, and create. Bring a snack, relax, and then head back outside for a new adventure every day! Single day option is not available.
Preregistration required.
Program runs daily, Monday to Friday.
Get ready for your week, check back throughout the summer at our Parents Corner (www.delnature.org/parentscorner) for program details.
Make sure to agree to the photo waiver during registration to receive updates and photos of your child shared through the Homeroom App throughout their week. Visit our Parents Corner for more information about how we use the app.
Summer Camp (grade completed K-9) | $95.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Ashland offers Before Camp care to campers from 7:30am to 8:30am. Single day option is not available.
Preregistration required.
Program runs daily, Monday to Friday.
Get ready for your week, check back throughout the summer at our Parents Corner (www.delnature.org/parentscorner) for program details.
Make sure to agree to the photo waiver during registration to receive updates and photos of your child shared through the Homeroom App throughout their week. Visit our Parents Corner for more information about how we use the app.
Summer Camp (grade completed K-9) | $55.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Experience sunset serenity on the Christina River! Immerse yourself in our beautiful wetlands while watching herons, beavers, bald eagles, and more. All participants must have one previous canoeing or kayaking experience. For beginner sessions, please search our programs calendar. Equipment provided; bring water, appropriate footwear, and sunscreen. Ages 14+.
Please remember that you need to have some prior experience in a canoe or kayak -- a minimum of one hour with ability to move the boat forward, backward, and turn. If you have questions, please reach out promptly.
Preregistration is required. This event is expected to sell out.
Adults (ages 14+) | $35.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Join our herbalist and craft your own traditional cordials! Sample tonics that aid digestion, focus, and circulation. Discover which ingredients are used to support the body, mind, and heart, then blend your own recipe using herbs, fruit, and spices. What a great holiday gift! Led by Sue Bara.
Adult (age 21+) | Member $20 | Non-member $25
Discount....
Spring has sprung, so we'll explore what emerges from the ground together. Discover the wonders of nature with your little one! Enjoy hands-on nature discovery outdoors with our Teacher Naturalists.
Registration required. Adult participation required, free of charge.
Preschoolers (ages 3-5) | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Join DelNature Ornithologist Ian Stewart to see birds up close as we carefully measure, weigh and band them to track their movements and survival. Bird banding takes place every Wednesday morning from 7am until 10am at Bucktoe Creek Preserve (432 Sharp Road, Avondale PA 19311). All banding is conducted by trained professionals under the necessary permits. Please note that banding will not take place in windy or wet weather. Led by Ian Stewart.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
All Ages (ages 3+) | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Who's the best gobbler in your family? Get your Thanksgiving table ready with a turkey centerpiece from natural items, and craft a turkey snack!
Children | $14 | Sign in for Member discount
One of the most exciting signs of spring is the appearance and courtship flights of the American Woodcock. Join us as we explore Coverdale Farm Preserve at dusk to see and hear these odd, plump members of the shorebird family conduct their displays. Afterwards, enjoy a glass of wine to toast the exciting bird also known as the "Mudbat". Enjoy Aldo Leopold's wonderful description of the experience to get a taste of what we hope for: Knowing the place and the hour, you seat yourself under a bush to the east of the dance floor and wait, watching against the sunset for the woodcock’s arrival. He flies in low from some neighboring thicket, alights on the bare moss, and at once begins the overture: a series of queer throaty peents spaced about two seconds apart, and sounding much like the summer call of the nighthawk.
Suddenly the peenting ceases and the bird flutters skyward in a series of wide spirals, emitting a musical twitter. Up and up he goes, the spirals steeper and smaller, the twittering louder and louder, until the performer is only a speck in the sky. Then, without warning, he tumbles like a crippled plane, giving voice in a soft liquid warble that a March bluebird might envy. At a few feet from the ground he levels off and returns to his peenting ground, usually to the exact spot where the performance began, and there resumes his peenting. It is soon too dark to see the bird on the ground, but you can see his flights against the sky for an hour, which is the usual duration of the show. On moonlight nights, however, it may continue, at intervals, as long as the moon continues to shine…
Adults | $30 | Sign in for Member discount
Grown-Up and Me programs bring grown-ups and children together with a range of outdoor experiences.
Price is per family.
Families | $30.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Enjoy the our yearly recap of Delaware Nature Society citizen science and research programs through four separate short presentations. Delaware Nature Society volunteers and staff conduct research about nature on our properties, and this is a great chance to see what we learned this year. Ian Stewart, Ornithologist, will discuss the highlights of his bird studies. David Brown, Hawk Watcher, will share the results of the raptor migration at the Ashland Hawk Watch along with his wonderful photographs illustrating the season. Jim White, Director of Land and Biodiversity, will share some of his research with reptiles and amphibians, as well as his own spectacular photography. Jen Llewelyn, Master Naturalist will highlight the results of bird box monitoring program on our properties. Be inspired to join us as a volunteer next year, or to see the results of your work if you are a current volunteer.
A Zoom meeting link will be sent prior to the start of the presentation.
Adults | Free
Bring a packed lunch and join us for an unforgettable experience at Ashland! Watch our staff feed the animals, enjoy a captivating story, and have lunch surrounded by friends.
Registration required. This is a Members only event. Adult participation required, free of charge.
Children | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Experience a scenic, mid-impact hike that changes weekly based on participant interest. Explore the farm or venture into the preserve to discover the natural beauty of the land. Enjoy fresh air, peaceful views, and a deeper connection with nature. Hikes occur every week from April to Mid-November but will vary based on participant interest. A minimum of 2 participants is required.
There is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
Adults | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of marsh ecosystems! Use dip nets to get up close and personal with tadpoles, fish, snails, and more. This is 30 minutes of hands-on fun you don't want to miss!
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
All Ages | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Rock out at Abbott's Mill with live music, food trucks, community fun, and more. Proceeds benefit education, conservation, and advocacy at Abbott's
This community event is made possible thanks to the financial support of our Members. If you aren't yet part of the DelNature community, please join us.
Registration is requested but not required. Registration is available at the gate.
Members FREE -- sign in for free admission
Non-member Adults $10
Non-member Children (ages 5+) $5
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Summer Camp | Daily, Mon-Fri | $390
Winter brings many new secrets to explore at Ashland. Learn how native animals survive in the winter, build forts to keep warm, and discover the world of maple sugaring. Gather round a campfire for s'mores and stories. Play and explore on this winter adventure!
Preregistration is required. This event is expected to sell out.
Children (grade completed K-3) | $70.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Decorate an assembled house with all the fixins to create a beautiful house for your backyard birds! Enjoy a crackling fire and refreshments! Price is per family.
Registration required.
Families | $35.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Registration via application only...
Craving creativity? Tired of crafting alone or zoning out in front of the TV? Connect and mingle with fellow makers, share your skills, and spark new ideas in a fun, welcoming space. Bring a craft project from home- or just bring yourself! Want to bring extra materials to share? Optional but always appreciated. Whether you're a seasoned creator or a curious beginner, there's a spot for you. Craft, chat, and unwind with light refreshments and great company. Led by Isi Schweiger and Staci Pinkowitz.
Registration required.
Adults | $7.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Identify birds with an expert to see migrant and nesting species that use the property in the Fall. Plan to walk about a mile. All levels of experience are welcome. This is a great way to get experience if you are new to an interest in birds.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
Adults | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Learn how to contact and meet with elected officials, present your issue, and keep in touch. These are tools and techniques anyone, including non--voters, can use to influence positive action on the issues that matter most to them. Led by Mark Nardone and Robin Glazer.
Registration required. Adult participation required with minors.
All Ages (ages 12+) | Free!
Fungi are one of the most under-appreciated components of the natural world in terms of their diversity and the role they play in the ecosystem. We will explore the shady woods of the beautiful private Bucktoe Creek Preserve in search of these fascinating decomposers. Walk mature forests and some wooded wetlands to see which fungi species we can find, as well as wildlife and plants along the way.
Led by Ian Stewart.
Pre-registration ends 24 hours before event. Capacity is limited.
Adults | $20.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Embark on a culinary adventure with our Young Chefs Cooking Class! Tailored for budding chefs, grades 3-6, this program provides an exciting opportunity to explore the world of cooking. Participants receive a new cookbook and cook several recipes while learning fundamental kitchen skills, experimenting with ingredients, and creating tasty dishes. Join us for a delicious journey!
Led by Farm Staff.
Pre-registration ends 24 hours before event. Capacity is limited.
Children (grades 3-6) | $50.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Bring your family and enjoy a guided stroll around the farm! This low impact hike offers a chance to explore the happenings on the farm, visit with the animals, and take in the natural beauty. Perfect for all ages, this relaxing adventure provides a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Feel free to join us every Saturday from April to mid-November.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
All Ages | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Red leaves, yellow leaves, green leaves or no leaves! Come take a hike through the preserve with Joe to see all the fun fall foliage! Led By Joe Sebastiani.
Adults | $20 | Sign in for Member discount
Explore Monarch butterflies and awesome animals that call the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge home. The event is free and open to the public – no registration required, just show up! Enjoy activities for all ages:
- see live butterflies, turtles, and frogs
- tag and release monarch butterflies
- view nature center exhibits
- try beginner canoeing
- and more!
Registration is not required, but we will send email updates to those who have pre-registered.
All Ages | Free!
2024 marks the start of the 3rd Pennsylvania Breeding Bird Atlas, a 5-year project in which the state is divided into hundreds of blocks which are surveyed for breeding birds. The atlas is intended to show the current distribution of the state’s breeding birds and indicate which species are increasing or decreasing or changing their range. Come out to this beautiful private preserve to enjoy the birds and help us contribute atlas data by identifying which species are breeding. We will do this safely and with minimal disturbance to the birds. Led by Ian Stewart. Pre-registration is required and ends 24hrs prior to event. Capacity is limited.
Note: We'll send you an email with preparations for the field trip the week of the program. if you don't see it, please view your spam folder.
Adults | $15.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Learn about birds in winter, how they deal with cold weather, and go out to find a variety of species on a field trip for people new to birds and birding. Features a Zoom lecture with a field trip following. The field trip will feature a guided experience at the Ashland Bird Blind, a walk of Coverdale Farm Preserve to see overwintering species, and a search for owls that might be found roosting during the daytime. We will look for raptors overhead, practice some identification techniques, and try to get good views of species in open meadow areas of the Coverdale Farm Preserve meadow restoration sites. Led by Ian Stewart.
Adults | $35 | Sign in for Member discount
Preschool Summer Fun (ages 4-5) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Summer Camp (grade completed 4-6) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Engage in the art of growing and cooking vegetables from seed to spoon. Each month join our team in the field discovering how to sprout, nurture, and harvest nutrient dense plants. Follow the path to the kitchen learning how to fabricate freshly harvested whole food into rewarding, delicious dishes. Each month we will feature a “spotlight” vegetable that shines in our regional foodshed. Led by Patrick Eggleston, Logan McCabe, Michele Wales Quinlan.
Adults | $100 | Sign in for Member discount
Explore a hike around the meadows and woods of a beautiful private preserve in search of birds. Identify birds with an expert to see migrant and nesting species that use the property in the Fall. Plan to walk about a mile. All levels of experience are welcome. This is a great way to get experience if you are new to an interest in birds.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
Adults | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Visit Ashland Hawk Watch any day from September through November to see raptors migrating south. Experienced Hawk Watchers are here every day identifying and counting the multiple species passing overhead. Come join the fun and see some great birds! Chairs, picnic tables, and even binoculars are provided. Bring a picnic basket and a friend.
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register.
All Ages | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Celebrate the end of summer at Ashland Nature Center. Sip, snack, and savor the beauty of a late summer evening. Food, beer, and soft drinks available for purchase. Live music and activities for all ages. Picnic blanket or chairs encouraged. Free entry for all!
Registration is not required, but we will send email updates, prior to the event, to those who have pre-registered.
All Ages | Free!
Please save the date for our Volunteer Appreciation Picnic at Ashland Nature Center. Food and beverages will be provided. Spouses are welcome. Details to follow.
Preregistration required.
Volunteers (ages 18+) | Free!
By registering, you agree to DelNature's liability waiver and policies.
Join us for a DEEC Day of Service! Come together to restore urban marshlands, protect wildlife, and foster a greener future. Let's make a positive impact on our environment!
Thanks to DelNature Members there is no cost to the program, however we kindly ask that you register. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
All Ages (ages 5+) | Free!
Preschool Summer Fun (ages 4-5) | $xxx.00 | Sign in for Member discount
Grown-Up and Me programs bring grown-ups and children together with a range of outdoor experiences.
A program designed for landowners and property managers, as well as Wood Thrush afficionados. Learn about our Wood Thrush research and how to manage your woods to attract this beautiful bird. Led by Ian Stewart.
Preregistration is required. This event is expected to sell out.
Adults | $20.00 | Sign in for Member discount