Recurring Summer Programs
Nature Journaling
Select Tuesdays at 2pm (about every other week). 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: All ages are welcome. Instruction level will be aimed at the late elementary/early middle school years but is accessbile to younger and even adult. This class is popular with homeschool families. Minors must have a responsible adult stay on site with them.
Location: Pavilion
Fee: none
RSVP: Not needed for summer sessions
Instructor and EJCA Contact: Kelli Hertzler, Education Coordinator. 540-568-3194 or GDXC5J@jmu.edu.
Storytime in the Understory
June 10-August 26, 2026. Every Wednesday, 10-10:30 a.m.
For our preschool visitors, we will read several short books at the seating area of the Family Garden. On June 24 and August 5, our Guest Reader will be Randy Ours, Children's Librarian for the Massanutten Regional Library.
Audience: Pre-school visitors and their families.
Location: The Arboretum's Family Garden
Fee: None
Registration: None
Contact: Call the Arboretum at (540) 568-3194 or email ejcarboretum@jmu.edu.
Children's Nature Activity
June 18 - August 6. Thursdays at 1pm at or near the pavilion.
Audience: Upper elementary (roughly 3rd through 5th grade)
Fee: None
Registration: None
A hands-on activity related to nature designed for elementary-aged children. Activity will vary by week. May involve a short story to inspire engagement, a hands-on activity at the pavilion or exploring another part of the Arboretum.
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
