Programs Supporting Literacy, Imagination, and the Arts in the Natural World


Storytime in the Understory
1st & 3rd Wednesdays | 10-10:30 AM
June 4 & 18, July 2 & 16, and August 6 & 20
Pre-School - Elementary suggested
Bring a blanket if you like and come enjoy nature-themed reading. We will meet in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden in the Storytime area!
In the case of inclement weather, we will meet at the Pavilion (near the Family Garden).
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

Touch-A-Truck! "From Waste to Wonder" Family Program Series
Tuesday, June 17 | 12-12:45 PM
Location: Meet in the Family Garden Storytime Spot
Help us celebrate Waste and Recycling Workers Week with a behind-the-scenes look at the trucks that keep our community clean. Children will hear stories about the powerful machines we use to manage our trash and then have the opportunity to sit inside a real City of Harrisonburg trash truck. Truck will be parked in the JMU R5 parking lot.
Registration required.
Arboretum Explorer Camp 2025
Get your child out of the house and into nature! The Arboretum Explorers Camps feature 5 mornings of active play, nature-based learning, games, crafts and projects, and "snacktivities" in a welcoming outdoor environment. Campers will explore the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum in small and large groups and enjoy instruction on a variety of topics presented by Arboretum staff, JMU students, and local naturalists.

For rising 1st through 3rd graders: June 16 - 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily
For rising 4th through 6th graders: June 9 - 13 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily
Registration will open through the JMU School of Professional and Continuing Education Youth Programs at the end of January.
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).