Fall 2026 Programs

Our Fall 2026 Programs are ready for your registrations. We look forward to an exciting Fall season of events for your pleasure! 

RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER EVENTS

ANNUAL BUILD-A-SCARECROW & PUMPKIN QUEST EVENT
Sunday, October 4       10:30 AM to 1:30 PM 
Two fabulous fall activities-- choose one or both! Fall is the traditional time for scarecrows and pumpkins. Build a fun scarecrow to decorate your yard or porch (frame, straw and clothes provided)! Then go on a quest to hunt for our mystery pumpkins along the Rancocas trails and solve this year’s riddle for a chance to win one of the hand-painted pumpkins. Cost: per Scarecrow and Pumpkin Quest: $20/Rancocas members; $25/non-members. Cost: Pumpkin Quest only: $10/per family. Register online for your scarecrow building and Pumpkin Quest at SCARECROW-PUMPKIN. Choose a time slot for the scarecrow building only. Inclement weather cancels this program.     MEMBERSHIP

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LONGWOOD GARDENS CHRISTMAS BUS TRIP           SAVE THE DATE!!  
Wednesday, December 2    10:30 AM to 7:45 PM (Rain or Shine)
This holiday season, experience the magic of A Longwood Christmas--it’s an event not to be missed. Enjoy the sights and sounds of this favorite winter tradition. The trip is sponsored by the Rancocas Nature Center and includes charter bus transportation (from and to Prospector's, Mt. Laurel) and an entry ticket. Details and registration for this event will be available starting in September.       MEMBERSHIP

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SANTAQUEST     SAVE THE DATE!!
Sunday, December 6       11:30 AM to 3 PM (staggered start times)
Although the holiday season is Santa’s busiest time, he always finds time to visit the Rancocas Nature Center. This year Santa is excited to check out a special sight on the trails. Bring your imagination, holiday spirit, and tracking skills and join us for this annual fun-filled event. Details and registration for this event will be available starting in September.      MEMBERSHIP

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

LITTLE SPROUTS (ages 2-6) Parental Participation Required
Wednesdays, September 9, 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21 and 28 10:30 to 11:30 AM
This program introduces children to the joys and wonders of gardening, from witnessing a plant grow from a seed, to finding a wiggly worm-- it’s all an adventure! Each session will focus on a different aspect of gardening and include work time in the garden, a story, composting and a craft/activity. Please dress accordingly. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free. Register online at LITTLE SPROUTS. If it rains, we will move indoors.       BECOME A MEMBER

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TALES & TRAILS (ages 3+)
Wednesdays, November 4, 11 and 18 10:30 to 11:30 AM      
The Rancocas Nature Preserve is beautiful throughout the fall and winter months! Join us for this free family-friendly children’s program. Each session will start with a nature-themed storybook, then proceed with a hike on the trails to explore Rancocas during the cooler seasons. This program is geared towards children 3 years and up and their families. Babies in backpacks are welcome! Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free. Register online at TALES & TRAILS. Inclement weather cancels.         BECOME A MEMBER

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WOODSY WONDERERS (Ages 3 to 5) Parental Participation Required
Fridays, September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6, 13 and 20 10 AM to 12 PM
Let’s explore the outdoors and discover the wonders of nature! Each class will include a story, a nature exploration, student-led inquiry, and free-play time in nature. Based on the “forest school” concept, this outdoor education model focuses on student interactions with natural spaces and offers hands-on learning in a woodland environment. This program is ideally outdoors and will take place in most types of weather including light drizzle/rain and cooler temperatures. The exception is heavy rain/winds, thunderstorms, or other unsafe weather when the class will be held indoors. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/$18/per child/per class, Register for 5 or more classes for $15/per child/per class. Register online at WOODSY WONDERERS         BECOME A MEMBER

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DAY-OFF DISCOVERY: MEET THE ANIMALS OF THE RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER
Thursday, November 5 12:30 to 2:30 PM
Kids off from school? A naturalist will be available at the center to share a hands-on session with the Rancocas resident animals. Cost: $10/family (up to 5 people; $2/per additional person). Register online at DAY OFF DISCOVERY.        BECOME A MEMBER

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ESCAPE ART JUNIOR--NATURE’S ORNAMENTS (ages 8 to 15)
Sunday November 15 1 to 2:30 PM
The holidays are just around the bend… let’s create hand-crafted ornaments from nature’s bounty. Using natural materials such as dried seed pods, pinecones, shells, dried flowers, etc. participants will create a variety of beautiful decorations. They make great gifts! All supplies are included. Cost: Rancocas members/$15; non-members/$20. Register online at ESCAPE ART JUNIOR          BECOME A MEMBER

TEEN/SCOUT PROGRAMS

TEEN AND SCOUT CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER DAYS (Ages 13-17)
Sunday, September 13 9 AM to 12 PM
Saturday, October 3 9 AM to 12 PM
Sunday, November 8 12:30 to 3:30 PM
Saturday, December 5 10 AM to 1 PM
The Rancocas Nature Center offers a supervised 3-hour volunteer session each month for youth ages 13-17 to get out into nature and accumulate service hours. Parental consent is required and parents are welcome to help as well. Activities vary depending on the season but often include removal of invasive species and mulching native plant enclosures and gardens. Volunteers should bring water, work gloves, and dress in work clothes, including appropriate footwear. Upon request, letters can be provided for youth needing proof of service for Scouts, 4-H, Honors Society, etc. Details and sign-up links can be found at CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER

PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES

INTERPRETIVE TRAIL HIKE
Sunday, September 6 and November 1 1:30 to 2:30 PM
Join Rancocas Nature Center for an interpretive hike through our varied habitats. It’s a great way to become familiar with the trails. You can bring a camera and/or binoculars as we’ll be sure to stop at scenic spots along the way. The hike is suitable for all ages 5+, so you’ll need a child carrier to transport younger children. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free; non-members/a donation is suggested. Register online at INTERPRETIVE TRAIL HIKE. Inclement weather cancels.         BECOME A MEMBER

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FAMILY FUNDAY--EXPLORING OUR DRAGONFLY POND
Sunday, September 13 1 to 2:30 PM
Come join this unique opportunity, interpreted by Rancocas Teacher Naturalist Robin Sperry, to observe nature at our Dragonfly Pond. Learn about the variety of plants, insects, and our population of green frogs that live there and call the pond their home. Cost: $10/family (up to 5 people); $2/per additional person). Register online at DRAGONFLY POND        BECOME A MEMBER

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FAMILY FUNDAY--CELEBRATING INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY 2026
Sunday, October 11 1 to 2 PM
New Jersey’s Dr. June “Charging Spirit” DePonte Sernak is the author of My Mommom’s Market: A Coloring Cookbook. She will visit the nature center and share her knowledge of Native American traditions. During this afternoon program, we will learn how her grandmother taught her about New Jersey produce and the benefits of family food traditions. In addition to a short kid-friendly presentation, she’ll share a page from the coloring book and demonstrate one of the recipes, followed by a tasting and Q&A. Signed copies of her coloring cookbook will be available for purchase. A portion of the profits are donated to local food charities. Cost: $10/family (up to 5 people); $2/per additional person). Register online at INDIGENOUS PEOPLE       BECOME A MEMBER

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS AND TEENS

CONNECT WITH NATURE: A COLD, DRY, WINDY ICE AGE—THE RANCOCAS CREEK LEGACY
Sunday, September 20 2 PM
Surprisingly little is known of Burlington County’s ice age history. Join Dr. Mark DiMitroff of Stockton University’s Geology Department as he speaks on the recent examination of evidence found in the Rancocas Creek Watershed of past frozen ground conditions during its cold, nonglacial (periglacial) history. These periods were unusual, with few modern analogs for us to use in comparison. Strong winds flowed off a nearby continental ice sheet sculpting barren land into distinctive landforms, ground that was intensely frozen and thawed. This is a fascinating landscape that is full of surprises hidden in plain sight, proof of intense climate change. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free; Non-members/$10. Register online at ICE AGE       BECOME A MEMBER

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ESCAPE ART: DECOUPAGE, STENCILS & PAINTS (OH MY!) (Ages 16+)
Sunday, September 27 1:30 to 3:30 PM
Let’s try it all! Working on canvas board, we will begin with paint and stencils to create a textured effect for an interesting background. Then we will decoupage a variety of natural images and/or materials to create a mixed media masterpiece. No experience necessary-- just be ready to have some fun! All materials included. Cost: Rancocas members/$25; non-members/$30. Register online at DECOUPAGE        BECOME A MEMBER

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THE FASCINATING WORLD OF FUNGI
Saturday, October 3 10 AM to 12 PM
Join Environmental Educator, Tara Rozanski on an approximately 2-mile walk in the woods to discover the wonderful world of mushrooms. This program is designed for those who want to learn about the species of fungi occurring in the Rancocas Nature Center preserve. Fungi can be present in a variety of locations—forest floor to tree canopy and can be camouflaged or in plain sight. Relationships between certain trees and fungi will also be discussed for a true appreciation of the role fungi play in nature. Cost: Rancocas members/$10; non-members/$15. Register online at FUNGI    Inclement weather cancels.      BECOME A MEMBER

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CONNECT WITH NATURE: EXPLORING THE WONDER OF OAKS by DOUG TALLAMY
Sunday, October 18 12:30 to 2:30 PM
Join Teacher Naturalist Mary Belko, for an indoor showing of Doug Tallamy’s, “Nature of Oaks,” a pre-recorded presentation, chock full of great information about the ecological importance of oak trees. If you are interested in wildlife gardening—a seasoned or beginner enthusiast--this is a must see. Post-program, enjoy a walk on the nature center grounds and learn ID techniques as we observe and discuss some of the characteristics of the different oaks we spot. Cost: $10/person. Register online at OAKS        BECOME A MEMBER

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ESCAPE ART: PRINTING FALL LEAVES (AGES 16+)
Sunday, October 25 1:30 to 3:30 PM
If only we could capture the spectacular colors of fall leaves… we can! Using printmaking, we will ink up real leaves (and feathers) to print on paper to create our own fall beauties. Mix and match colors of ink and paper to find your favorite combos. Greeting cards will be available if you’d like to turn your creations into cards. If weather permits, we will do a mini walk around the yard to collect leaves. No experience necessary. Cost: Rancocas members/$25; non-members/$30. Register online at PRINTING LEAVES       BECOME A MEMBER

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CONNECT WITH NATURE--NATURALIST WALK AT WHITESBOG
Saturday, November 7 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM (approx.)
Rancocas’ Mary Belko and Tara Rozanski will lead a casual walk on the Whitesbog grounds to look at/for birds, plants, mushrooms, and other natural features. We’ll also explore some of the “Melodies in the Pines” stations along the way. This is a new installation of Pinelands music mixed with nature/natural sounds. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars and a sense of adventure. Let’s have some fun! Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/$10; Non-members/$20. Register online at WHITESBOG. Directions to the meeting site will be sent the week before. Inclement weather cancels.        BECOME A MEMBER

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ESCAPE ART: NATURE’S ORNAMENTS (Ages 16+)
Sunday, November 22 1:30 to 3:30 PM
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of art and crafting! The holidays are just around the corner, so let’s create beautiful, hand-crafted ornaments from nature’s bounty. Using natural materials such as dried seed pods, pinecones, shells, dried flowers, and other found items, participants will create a variety of beautiful decorations. They make great gifts! All supplies included. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/$25; non-members/$30. Register online at NATURE'S ORNAMENTS       BECOME A MEMBER

ADULT PROGRAMS 

RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
Thursdays, September 3, October 1 and November 5 10 AM to 12 PM
All are welcome. Club meets the first Thursday of every month in the Rancocas Nature Center classroom or at a designated alternative outdoor location. Contact rncphotoclub@gmail.com for details.

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SEASONAL STROLL (55+)
First Friday of the Month, September 4, October 2 and November 6 Meet at Rancocas Nature Center Parking Lot 10:30 AM
Third Friday of the Month, September 18, October 16 and November 20 Meet at Rancocas SP-Westampton Parking Lot 10:30 AM
Join a Rancocas naturalist for a 1-hour guided stroll to observe the fall season on the nature center grounds or the Rancocas State Park’s meadows, streams, and woodlands. We use our easier trails where the terrain is mostly flat ground with some roots. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free; Non-members/a donation is suggested. Register online at:
FIRST FRIDAYS STROLL.    Inclement weather cancels.         BECOME A MEMBER
THIRD FRIDAYS STROLL.  Inclement weather cancels

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HUMP DAY AFTER-WORK HIKES (ages 18+)
Wednesdays, September 9, 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21 and 28 5:30 to 7 PM
Like to hike, but don’t like doing it alone? Come on out for a brisk, intermediate ability hike with elevational changes—the perfect way to get some exercise incorporated into your day. Breathe deep, relax, and enjoy the weekly changes you observe as the season progresses. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free; Non-members/$5. Register online at AFTER WORK HIKES. Inclement weather cancels.        BECOME A MEMBER

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WEEKDAY BIRD WALK AT RANCOCAS
Thursday, September 10 8:30 AM
Thursdays, October 22, November 12 and December 10 9 AM
Join Audrey Dorofy to search the Rancocas Nature Center grounds in search of birds. In addition to our local residents, we hope to see some migrants passing through. Bring water and binoculars (let us know ahead of time if you would like to borrow a pair). Dress to walk in mostly hard sand or gravel (some areas with roots), occasional hills, and a mix of wooded and open areas. This is a relaxed pace—1 to 1.5 hours. All skill levels are welcome. Cost: $5/person. Register online at BIRD WALK. Inclement weather cancels.       BECOME A MEMBER

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THE RANCOCAS NATURE CENTER CONSERVATION CLUB
Saturday, September 26 9 to 11:30 AM
Saturday, October 31 9 to 11:30 AM
Saturday, November 28 10 AM to 12:30 PM
Saturday, December 26 10 AM to 12:30 PM
The Conservation Club was recently started to give interested adults an opportunity to get into nature and provide stewardship on our grounds. Activities vary depending on the season, but often include trail maintenance, removal of invasive species and mulching native plant enclosures and gardens. These sessions are officially held on the last Saturday of each month, but once you are involved you may receive information about additional opportunities. Volunteers should bring water, work gloves, and dress in work clothes, including appropriate footwear. Upon request, letters can be provided for proof of service if needed. Details and sign-up links can be found online at CONSERVATION CLUB        BECOME A MEMBER

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HUMP DAY AFTERNOON HIKES (ages 18+)
Wednesdays, November 4, 11, 18 and 25 2:30 to 4:00 PM
As the light diminishes in the evening, we move our Hump-day hike to the afternoon from November until the end of winter. If you like to hike, but don’t like doing it alone, join us for a brisk, intermediate ability hike in nature—the perfect way to get some exercise incorporated into your day. Breathe deep, relax, and enjoy the weekly changes you observe as the season progresses. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/free; Non-members/$5. Register online at HUMP DAY AFTERNOON. Inclement weather cancels.         BECOME A MEMBER

ADULT FIELD TRIPS (suitable for interested teens)

GREAT BAY BOULEVARD (TUCKERTON) BIRDING FIELD TRIP
Thursday, October 15 9 AM to 12 PM (approx.)
Join seasoned birders Patty Rehn and Steve Mattan along Bridges Road as they assist in IDing what we spot. We will look for waders and migrants, i.e. egrets, herons, plovers, yellowlegs, terns, cormorants, gulls, warblers, and others. After a short walk/hike, to the local salt marsh, we’ll search for Nelson’s Sparrow, Saltmarsh Sparrow, and the Seaside Sparrow, among others. Nelson’s Sparrow is our main target. In early autumn, they migrate south along the coast to their wintering grounds along the southern US coastline. Boots are the suggested footwear. Directions to the meeting site will be sent the week before. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/$10; Non-members/$20. Register online at TUCKERTON BIRDING. Inclement weather cancels.      BECOME A MEMBER

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BARNEGAT LIGHT STATE PARK BIRDING FIELD TRIP
Saturday, November 28 10 AM
The northern tip of Long Beach Island, Barnegat State Park, is a great location to view an assortment of winter birds along the Jersey shore. This trip, led by birders Mary Belko, Audrey Dorofy, and Bob Lefieste, also includes a stopover at other LBI locations. Possibilities include Harlequins, seabirds, gulls, and winter migrants. Meet in the Barnegat Light State Park parking lot. Cost: Rancocas Nature Center members/$10; Non-members/$20. Register online at BARNAGET BIRDING. Inclement weather cancels.               BECOME A MEMBER