Programs for Scouts

Whether it is after school or on a weekend your scouts can learn about nature, earn an award or badge, and have fun during our hands-on environmental education programs or guided nature hikes. Most nature related and earth science badges can be completed or started at TNC. The education director can review specific badge/patch requirements with you. Having a natural experience is another option. Scouts can learn how to make maple syrup, apple cider, review their map and compass skills and orient their way through the forest, or experience the forest in the dark--if you dare!

Programs are held rain, snow or shine throughout the year. Our covered pavilion has sides and a fireplace. An indoor alternative to the night hike is provided if the trails are not safe to walk due to ice or wet leaves.

Evening Programs
(No one under the age of 5 years old may attend).
Maximum of 30 participants.

Batty for Bats - One of the most misunderstood creatures this program concentrates on the one mammal that flies. After  games and activities participants will journey outside to search for and actually listen to bats as they actively acquire their food.

Campfire - Songs, stories and fun filled activities around a campfire where no one is left out and EVERYONE participates! Learn about the seasonal changes and forest animals, roast marshmallows, sip hot chocolate or cider.

Night Hike - Experience the forest without flashlights as you develop your night vision, play games, and listen for animals during a short walk on the trails. Stars, bats, frogs, and insects are just a few of the things you may encounter at night.

Owl Prowl - New Jersey is filled with night life and one of the more audible creatures of the night are its owls. After a short discussion about these winged wonders we will go outside for a walk in search of our night time feathered friends.

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Scheduling and Trip Information
Schedule Early!

Spring and Fall time slots fill quickly, but we're open all year.
Call 201-568-6093 to schedule a field trip this year.

• For faster scheduling have several date and time options ready when you call.

• Your message should include your name, phone number, group age and number of scouts, the name of the program, several possible dates, and the preferred times.

• If a day/date time slot is already booked, a waiting list is kept.

To discuss badge requirements and possible dates, call the Education Director at (201) 568-6093 or email her a program request form by clicking here she will contact you as soon as possible.

Most programs are held entirely outdoors and are given regardless of the weather, with some exceptions. Scouts should dress accordingly.

Preparation for your visit

• TNC programs are held mostly outdoors

• Please ask scouts to dress accordingly as they may be standing or sitting outdoors for most of the program.

• Please remind scouts to dress in layers.

In winter, scouts should dress more warmly than for outdoor play. In warmer weather, we recommend light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants as protection against plants and insects. Trails are rocky and seasonally muddy. Scouts should wear sturdy shoes or boots and rain gear when applicable.

Picnic Area

Under our covered pavilion TNC has several picnic tables available. If you would like to have lunch here discuss it with the Education Director. Please bring trash bags and remind your scouts to bring reusable lunch containers. When you leave please take your trash with you.

Museum

You can schedule time for your group to explore the natural history exhibits and displays in the visitor center.

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Scout Fees

 There is no charge for Scout Leaders.
 If your funds are limited inquire about reduced rates.
We strive to make nature accessible to all.
Most programs are held entirely outdoors and are given regardless of the weather, except for downpours or blizzards.
Scouts should dress accordingly.

• Badges/Patches usually take 1.5 hours minimum to complete

• For every 5 participants, one chaperone is admitted free.  All additional chaperones and/or siblings are $6.00 per person.

• The minimum fee is required to hold your reservation within 2 weeks after the reservation is made, or the reservation will be void.  If the program is scheduled with in the 2 weeks, prepayment is required upon receipt of the confirmation letter.

• No one under the age of 5 years old may attend.

• For the evening programs the maximum number of participants is 30, including everyone: scouts, leaders, parents, and siblings.

Pre-payment:

Pre-payment is required for ALL programs. When you schedule a program, a time slot will be reserved for you. Payment must be received within 2 weeks, or the reservation will be cancelled. If you schedule a program within that 2 week period, pre-payment is due three days prior to the program.

Group Size for Programs at TNC

TNC makes every effort to keep groups small, to optimize individual scouts’ participation. A maximum of 25 scouts can be accommodated at TNC at one time. Larger groups can be divided between morning and afternoon or programs can be scheduled over several days.

• All Scouts: Groups larger than 10 scouts will be charged $4.00 per additional scout.

Reschedule, Cancel & Refund Information

• Most TNC programs are held outdoors and are given regardless of the weather, except for downpours or blizzards.

• If you group must reschedule, you will be responsible for a  $50 Rescheduling fee.

• If your group must cancel, refunds are based on how far in advance cancellation is from schedule date.

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