Nature Journaling
Select Tuesdays at 2pm. See our calendar for dates.
Observation skills needed but art skills are not. You may wish to bring your own journal and art supplies. Basic materials are provided.
Audience: Everyone welcome. Instruction will be aimed at the late elementary/early middle school years but all ages are welcome. This class is popular with homeschool families. Minors must have a responsible adult stay on site with them.
Location: Pavilion
Fee: none
RSVP: Requested for our planning purposes and also so we can notify you if there any changes to the program. Walk-ins welcome, too.
Contact: Kelli Hertzler, Education Coordinator, with questions. 540-568-3194 or GDXC5J@jmu.edu.
Parking: Construction around the Arboretum has University Blvd reduced to one lane in front of the Arboretum. The parking lots within the arboretum are sometimes closed, meaning that the pavilion lot is filling more often. Parking at JMU R5 lot is another option. Allow extra time for arrival due to these two factors.
The Backpack Program
Pre-School - Elementary
Explore the Arboretum with themed activities! This program is FREE. Backpacks are located in the lobby of the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday - Friday (8 AM - 4 PM)
How It Works
Pick A Backpack
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Flowers
- Exploring Trees
- Forest Mammals
- Butterflies
- Insects
- Macroinvertebrates
Checkout
Leave a driver's license or car keys with us, to be picked up after the backpack is returned.
Explore!
Enjoy the backpack's activities and adventure onward!
Return Backpack
Once you're ready to depart the Arboretum, you can return your backpack(s).
Grounds: Free to the public
Dawn to dusk | 365 days a year
Frances Plecker Education Center:
M-F | 8 AM - 4 PM
