Recurring 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 accessible to younger and even adult. Minors must have a responsible adult stay on site with them.
Location: Pavilion
Fee: none
RSVP: Only for winter sessions, which are indoor with limited seating
Instructor and EJCA Contact: Kelli Hertzler, Education Coordinator. 540-568-3194 or GDXC5J@jmu.edu.
Special Programs
Squirrel Fest
Saturday, September 19, 2026, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., FREE event! No registration. When you arrive, look for the Welcome table.
The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is delighted to host its first-ever Squirrel Fest with a wide variety of activities including:
- Themed walking tours
- A squirrel-based Citizen Science project using iNaturalist
- Beatrix Potter's "Squirrel Nutkin" featured on our StoryWalk
- Open mic poetry/songs about squirrels
- Educational exhibit of squirrels that live in the Arboretum
- Activity and display tables
Questions? Want to be involved? Contact us at EJCArboretum@jmu.edu or call us at 540-568-3194.
Check here for more information and updates.
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
