1212 Edge Hill Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-887-6603
info@briarbush.org
Summer Camp Guide
Members-Only Registration: Thursday, January 28, 2027 at 12pm
for members at the Robin (Household) Level and above
General Registration: Friday, January 29, 2027 at 12pm
Summer Camp at BBNC
Summer is a time when learning and play go hand-in-hand. Briar Bush Summer Camps give your child the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature through scientific discovery, interpretive hikes, live animal encounters, games, crafts, nature play, and more.
Our 12.5 acres of forest serve as a rich oasis and perfect Summer Camp setting in the middle of the suburbs, and our small camp groups help us to ensure more individualized attention and high-quality programming. We’re looking forward to providing campers with memories full of excitement, new experiences, nature exploration, hands-on discovery, and all-around fun in the outdoors!
Summer Camp Guide 2027
This document is a comprehensive source for Summer Camp 2027 and outlines our camp format, current offerings, policies and procedures, registration process, and more.
Please review all information provided in this document before registration and again before the start of camp to ensure that your child has a safe, healthy, and fun camp experience.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call Briar Bush Nature Center at 215-887-6603 or email me at melissa@briarbush.org.
The information included in the Summer Camp Guide is also outlined below. Click a section in the menu to be directed to that section.
Summer Camp Staff
We are very fortunate to have highly experienced educators who love what they do. Our Summer Camp staff pass a rigorous set of clearances, complete relevant trainings and certifications, and care about the health and safety of our campers. All staff members recognize that Summer Camp is a unique experience in a child’s life and are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for each child.
Permanent Staff
Permanent staff members, including our full-time and part-time educators, lead Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 8-9, Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 10-12, and Overnight Camp for Ages 13-15. Our team’s varied backgrounds in environmental education mean every program is infused with unique perspectives, ensuring that participants of all ages and learning styles find a meaningful connection to nature.
Seasonal Staff
Seasonal educators lead Seedlings Half-Day Camps for Ages 4-6 and Saplings Full-Day Camps for Ages 6-7 and also assist year-round staff members with Travel Camps.
Our seasonal educators are typically college students or recent college graduates who are carefully selected after an extensive interview process is completed and all clearances have been passed. Their skills, character, experiences, and leadership add to the success of our Summer Camp program.
If you are interested in joining our staff this summer, review the Nature Camp Educator job description and apply online.
Summer Camp Volunteers
Camp Aides, teenage Summer Camp volunteers, accompany and assist camp educators throughout the summer. Their dedication, love of nature, and joy of working with children make all the difference in our Summer Camp program and in the life of each camper.
Camp Aide Volunteer Program for Ages 13+
Camp Aides are an important aspect of Briar Bush Nature Center’s Summer Camp Program. Our Camp Aide Program is designed to give teens the opportunity to serve alongside Summer Camp staff while gaining naturalist, leadership, education, and communication skills; earning community service hours; building resume experience; and having a fun-filled summer.
Camp Aides will assist the educators with camp preparation, group management, daily activities, camp cleanup, and more. Camp Aides are expected to model appropriate behavior and actively participate in games and activities, nature exploration, and camper support.
Requirements
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Applicants must be 13+ years of age by June 1, 2027.
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Applicants must read the Camp Aide Handbook before applying.
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Camp Aides are required to:
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attend Camp Aide Training
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remain aware of and actively follow camp policies and procedures
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understand and follow written and oral directions
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exhibit strong communication skills and attention to detail
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actively engage with educators, fellow volunteers, and campers
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remain attentive and responsive to educator and camper needs
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actively assist with and lead camp activities
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remain with the camp group at all times
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independently escort a group of campers from one location to another
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complete other camp tasks independently
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actively participate indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and terrain
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stand, walk, lift, bend, crouch, kneel, reach at all levels; carry and move objects
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communicate verbally, hear to perceive information at normal spoken word levels, receive detailed information through oral communications, make fine distinction in sound frequently
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observe surroundings with visual acuity (near vision, mid and far vision, depth perception, color perception, field of vision)
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Camp Aides may handle a variety of domesticated animals and non-releasable wildlife in camp programs (training provided).
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Applicants ages 18+ must obtain the appropriate clearances in order to be accepted for this position.
Camp Aide Application
If you are interested in volunteering as a Camp Aide, complete the Camp Aide Application.
The deadline for applications is Friday, February 5, 2027 at 12:00pm. All applications will be reviewed after the deadline. You will be contacted approximately three weeks after the deadline regarding acceptance into the program.
Approximately 50-60 Camp Aides will be accepted for Summer 2027. As there is a limited number of positions and an overwhelming number of applications, please note that completing an application does not guarantee a Camp Aide position. Special consideration will be given to applicants based on previous experience as a Camp Aide, age-needs for camp groups, and flexibility in availability. Selected Camp Aides are typically scheduled for two weeks of camp. Scheduled weeks with camp siblings or Camp Aide friends cannot be guaranteed.
Briar Bush Nature Center reviews applications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.
Summer Camp Offerings
Summer Camp at Briar Bush Nature Center is a partial summer program option. Each camp type offers five themes that repeat two or three times throughout the summer. Please note that children cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Review the chart below. An asterisk (*) denotes a four-day camp week. The following pages include more detailed camp offerings.
Seedlings Half-Day Camp for Ages 4-6
AM Session: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm | PM Session: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Ratio per Session: 1 staff and 2 volunteers to 6 campers
Adventurous and curious, preschoolers love to learn about nature through discovery and play. Each week, mini-lessons on the theme build campers' knowledge of natural concepts while games, crafts, hikes, animal encounters, and free-time to explore make learning tons of fun!
Seedlings Half-Day campers will participate in activities onsite at Briar Bush Nature Center. Most activities will directly relate to the camp theme, but campers can always look forward to general summer fun, animal encounters, guided hikes, pond exploration, and visiting the Bird Observatory regardless of the theme.
Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 4 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register.
The five camp themes below repeat two or three times throughout the summer. Campers cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Campers registered for more than one week per theme will be removed from the duplicate week.
Campers can only participate in Seedlings AM or PM (not both) during the same week as the programs are identical.
The Pond and Beyond
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/7-6/11
7/12-7/16
8/16-8/20
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
The Briar Bush pond is the place to be this summer! Explore the pond by catching frogs and tadpoles, searching for aquatic bugs, and meeting our resident turtles!
Authors and Animals
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/14-6/17*
7/19-7/23
8/23-8/27
$280.00 | Resident: $252.00 | Member: $224.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
This week, literacy and science come together as we dive into our favorite children’s books and become part of the story. Bring classic nature books, like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, to life this week!
Fur, Feathers, and Scales
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
6/21-6/25
7/26-7/30
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
Some body coverings help keep an animal warm, disappear, or be noticed. Explore the Briar Bush trails and museum to learn how different body coverings help animals to survive!
Wild by Nature
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/28-7/2
8/2-8/6
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
Become one with the natural world this week by exploring the outdoors and getting your hands dirty. The best way to learn about nature is to get wacky and wild while having fun!
Backyard Biologists
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
7/6-7/9*
8/9-8/13
$280.00 | Resident: $252.00 | Member: $224.00
$310.00 | Resident: $279.00 | Member: $248.00
Explore the things that keep Briar Bush’s backyard interesting. Use binoculars, dig in the soil, catch frogs, and more! Learn about the natural world around you by becoming a backyard biologist!
Extended Care
Before Care is available for Seedlings Half-Day Camp, AM Session. After Care is available for Seedlings Half-Day Camp, PM Session. Registration for Extended Care is separate from Summer Camp Registration. You may register at the time of camp registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date.
Before Care
8:30 am - 9:30 am
$30 / week
After Care
4:00pm - 5:30 pm
$45 / week
Saplings Full-Day Camp for Ages 6-7
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Ratio per Session: 2 staff and 3 volunteers to 12 campers
Join us for a full day of excitement, education, and exploration in the outdoors! Each week, lessons and activities build campers' knowledge of natural concepts while games, crafts, hikes, animal encounters, and free-play time to explore make learning lots of fun.
Saplings Full-Day campers will participate in activities onsite at Briar Bush Nature Center. Most activities will directly relate to the camp theme, but campers can always look forward to general summer fun, animal encounters, guided hikes, pond exploration, and visiting the Bird Observatory regardless of the theme.
Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 6 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register.
The five camp themes below repeat two or three times throughout the summer. Campers cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Campers registered for more than one week per theme will be removed from the duplicate week.
The Cycles of Life
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/14-6/17*
7/19-7/23
8/23-8/27
$360.00 | Resident: $324.00 | Member: $288.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
Nature is full of circles and cycles, like the life cycle of a frog, the changing of the seasons, and the cycle of the moon. Explore these cycles at the pond, museum, and more!
Master of the Elements
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/21-6/25
7/26-7/30
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
Water, Earth, Fire, Air: Do you believe you can master all of the elements? Stomp in the stream, dig in the soil, explore the energy of the sun, and feel the summer breeze. Explore the power of these elements as you learn to master them!
Child versus Wild
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
6/28-7/2
8/2-8/6
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
It’s time to live on the wild side! Explore the wild world at Briar Bush by catching frogs, hiking the trails, stomping in the stream, and getting your hands dirty. This camp is the perfect balance of fun and skill building!
Eyes on the Sky
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
7/6-7/9*
8/9-8/13
$360.00 | Resident: $324.00 | Member: $288.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
It’s time to put your eyes to the sky and explore all the things that are happening above you, like soaring birds and drizzling rain. Be sure to keep your eyes on the sky this week; you won’t want to miss a thing!
Stealth and Survival
Instructor: Seasonal Staff
7/12-7/16
8/16-8/20
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
$445.00 | Resident: $400.50 | Member: $356.00
Explore how animals use color, texture, body coverings, and more to protect themselves from predators and weather. Can you hide as well as an owl? Can you survive the elements of nature? Put your skills to the test this week as we learn about stealth and survival!
Extended Care
Before and After Care is available for Saplings Full-Day Camps. Registration for Extended Care is separate from Summer Camp Registration. You may register at the time of camp registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date.
Before Care
8:30 am - 9:30 am
$30 / week
After Care
4:00pm - 5:30 pm
$45 / week
Full-Day Travel Camp for Ages 8-9
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Ratio per Session: 2 staff and 1 volunteer to 12 campers
Our Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 8-9 involve the best of Briar Bush while introducing new offsite adventures to campers.
All camps include daily travel in the Briar Bush vans to regional sites relating to the camp theme. All field trip fees are included in the camp cost. Specific field trip locations and information will be provided in the Camp Itinerary emailed approximately three weeks in advance of the camp week. Be sure to assess your child's interests and abilities before registering as your child may not have the opportunity to sit out of activities.
Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 8-9 are not offered the week of July 19-23.
Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 8 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register.
The five camp themes below repeat twice throughout the summer. Campers cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Campers registered for more than one week per theme will be removed from the duplicate week.
Reading the Land
Instructor: Marissa Burr
6/14-6/17*
7/26-7/30
$395.00 | Resident: $355.50 | Member: 316.00
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
Nature is full of stories, but can you read its language? Bite marks on leaves, animal scat, footprints, and subtle changes in plant life give us clues as to what is going on in the natural world around us. We’ll even hunt for stories of the past: fossils!
Time Trekkers
Instructor: Heidi Malizia
6/21-6/25
8/2-8/6
$575.00 | Resident: $517.50 | Member: $460.00
If you could travel back in time, where would you go? Step into the past for a week of primitive skills, medieval castles, 18th century adventures, and swashbuckling pirate escapades. Get ready to explore, create, and discover history in an unforgettable way!
$575.00 | Resident: $517.50 | Member: $460.00
Nature Art
Instructor: Kyrstin Schwarz
6/28-7/2
8/9-8/13
$515.00 | Resident: $463.50 | Member: $412.00
Can you paint with the colors of nature? Get ready to draw, paint, and sculpt your way through all the natural world has to offer! This week, we’ll explore the beauty of nature and create art using various mediums. Bring your imagination and creativity!
$515.00 | Resident: $463.50 | Member: $412.00
Beaks, Wings, and Feathered Things
Instructor: Katie Fisk
7/6-7/9*
8/16-8/20
$415.00 | Resident: $373.50 | Member: $332.00
$515.00 | Resident: $463.50 | Member: $412.00
From their ability to fly, to their colors and songs, birds are fascinating creatures. This week, we’ll go on bird watching trips, learn to set up bird-friendly backyard habitats, complete an egg drop challenge, and meet some real birds up close!
Forest Foragers
Instructor: Carter Johnson
7/12-7/16
8/23-8/27
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
Nature is full of treasures, if you know where to look! Food, tools, and toys can all come from the bounty of our local ecosystems. Come hunt for berries, cordage, clay, and more! Note: This camp involves the harvesting and consumption of wild edible plants.
Extended Care
Before and After Care is available for Full-Day Travel Camps. Registration for Extended Care is separate from Summer Camp Registration. You may register at the time of camp registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date.
Before Care
8:30 am - 9:30 am
$30 / week
After Care
4:00pm - 5:30 pm
$45 / week
Full-Day Travel Camp for Ages 10-12
9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Ratio per Session: 2 staff and 1 volunteer to 12 campers
Our Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 10-12 involve the best of Briar Bush while introducing new offsite adventures to campers.
All camps include daily travel in the Briar Bush vans to regional sites relating to the camp theme. All field trip fees are included in the camp cost. Specific field trip locations and information will be provided in the Camp Itinerary emailed approximately three weeks in advance of the camp week. Be sure to assess your child's interests and abilities before registering as your child may not have the opportunity to sit out of activities.
Full-Day Travel Camps for Ages 10-12 are not offered the week of July 19-23.
Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 10 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register.
The five camp themes below repeat twice throughout the summer. Campers cannot be registered for the same theme more than once as the programs are identical. Campers registered for more than one week per theme will be removed from the duplicate week.
Eco-Art
Instructor: Kyrstin Schwarz | Morgan Brown
6/14-6/17*
7/26-7/30
Have you ever wondered at the beauty of the natural world? This week, let it inspire your art from the veins of leaves to the scales of snakes. We’ll use nature as our canvas to create something almost as amazing as the world itself. Let nature be your muse!
$415.00 | Resident: $373.50 | Member: $332.00
$515.00 | Resident: $463.50 | Member: $412.00
Future Naturalist
Instructor: Marissa Burr
6/21-6/25
8/2-8/6
This week, practice identifying plants and animals along the trails, learn to lead a guided hike with the help of professionals at other parks and nature centers, and spend time improving the habitats at Briar Bush. If you've ever said, “I want to work at Briar Bush!” this camp is for you!
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
Habitat Hunters
Instructor: Morgan Brown
6/28-7/2
8/9-8/13
Discover fantastic critters and plants that inhabit the world around us. Stomp in some streams, frolic in the fields and forests, visit local farms, and explore a real cave. Spend fun-filled days uncovering many hidden nooks and crannies both here at Briar Bush and beyond!
$575.00 | Resident: $517.50 | Member: $460.00
$575.00 | Resident: $517.50 | Member: $460.00
Wildlife Biologist
Instructor: Marissa Burr
7/6-7/9*
8/16-8/20
$415.00 | Resident: $373.50 | Member: $332.00
$515.00 | Resident: $463.50 | Member: $412.00
This week, experience different aspects of Wildlife Biology: examine bones in mammalogy, master bird watching in ornithology, and learn about the secret lives of trees in dendrology, without ever leaving the ground. Sharpen your observation skills and experience the life of a wildlife biologist!
Take a Hike
Instructor: Morgan Brown
7/12-7/16
8/23-8/27
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
$490.00 | Resident: $441.00 | Member: $392.00
Lace your boots and uncover the many wonders of Pennsylvania! Learn how to plan a hiking trip, read a map, pack a day bag, create a safety plan, and more. Let's find some hidden treasures while exploring Southeastern PA.
Extended Care
Before and After Care is available for Full-Day Travel Camps. Registration for Extended Care is separate from Summer Camp Registration. You may register at the time of camp registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date.
Before Care
8:30 am - 9:30 am
$30 / week
After Care
4:00pm - 5:30 pm
$45 / week
Overnight Camp for Ages 13-15
Monday: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm; Tuesday: 9:30 am – Overnight; Wednesday-Thursday: Overnight; Friday: 4:00 pm Pick-Up
Ratio: 2 staff and 2 volunteers to 12 campers
There's no experience like an overnight camping experience! Campers will learn camping and naturalist skills and engage in teamwork and independence while exploring the great outdoors.
Campers must be within the age range to participate. However, campers who turn 13 years of age up to one month after the camp start date will be eligible to register.
Overnight Camp at Ricketts Glen State Park
Instructor: Mark Fallon and Kyrstin Schwarz
7/19-7/23
$655.00 | Resident: $589.50 | Member: $524.00
Join us for a memorable camping adventure at Ricketts Glen State Park! Campers come to Briar Bush on Monday, sleep at home, then stay overnight at the State Park from Tuesday-Friday. There’s so much to do, we can’t list it all: safe camping skills, night hikes, creek walks, waterfalls, swimming, songs, s’mores around the campfire, and more. Look forward to a week immersed in nature, teamwork, and self-reliance!
Extended Care
Before and After Care are available for Overnight Camp. Registration for Extended Care is separate from Summer Camp Registration. You may register at the time of camp registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date.
Before Care
Monday, Tuesday
8:30 am - 9:30 am
$12 / week
After Care
Monday, Friday
4:00pm - 5:30 pm
$18 / week
Summer Camp Policies and Procedures
General
Summer Camp Financial Aid
At Briar Bush Nature Center, we believe nature is for everyone. To apply for financial aid, submit an electronic application with required materials or call for a paper application.
U.S. Poverty Guidelines are used to determine eligibility to receive financial aid. Financial aid may be granted partially or in full. Financial aid is determined on a rolling, first-come-first-served basis until funding is dispersed.
As processing applications can take up to two weeks, applications submitted on 1/11/27 onward will be processed after Summer Camp Registration opens and will be determined based on eligibility and camp availability.
Briar Bush Nature Center reviews applications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.
Briar Bush Nature Center reserves the right to refuse financial aid to any applicant. Briar Bush Nature Center has the right to terminate financial aid immediately if false information was presented.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
If you transfer or cancel a Summer Camp program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No transfers or refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date.
Please note that this policy takes effect immediately once registration is completed.
Abington Township Photo Policy
On occasion, we may take photos or video of individuals enrolled in programs or using parks facilities. Please be aware that these images are for Township use and may be used in future promotional materials.
Briar Bush Nature Center is part of Abington Township Parks and Recreation Department. This policy must be acknowledged in order to register for Summer Camp.
No-Electronics Policy
Summer Camp at Briar Bush Nature Center is designed to be an unplugged, immersive experience where campers learn to be present, make real-life connections, and solve problems independently. Electronics cause distractions and pull campers away from this intended experience.
Therefore, Briar Bush Nature Center has adopted a No-Electronics Policy, which prohibits the use of electronics including cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, tablets, and gaming devices during the camp day.
If you require your child to carry a cell phone or smartwatch during the camp day for after-hours safety, such as walking home after camp, please note that these electronics must remain off and stored in a backpack throughout the entirety of the camp program.
Communications
Briar Bush Nature Center communicates with families through various channels to provide information and updates regarding the camp program and their camper.
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Website
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This Summer Camp Guide is available via the website for review before registration and throughout the camp season.
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Email
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Once registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation email of your order. Please refer to this receipt for your child’s camp registration.
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In preparation for the camp season and registered camp weeks, families will mostly be contacted via email by the Program and Summer Camp Director.
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Families will be emailed a link to complete the required Medical and Pick-Up Consent Form.
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A Camp Itinerary including daily topics, general activities, and special instructions will be emailed approximately three weeks prior to each camp week. Review it carefully to ensure your camper is prepared for each camp day.
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Please add Melissa Eldridge, melissa@briarbush.org, as a safe sender in your email settings to avoid emails going to spam. We recommend that you check your spam folder often during this time.
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Phone
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Families will be contacted by phone if there is a lack of email response.
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Families will be contacted by phone during the camp week if:
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Vital camp items (lunchbox, camp gear) were left at home
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Emotional concerns arise that require additional support
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Illnesses or injuries occur that require medical attention
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Significant behavioral or safety concerns arise
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Emergencies of any kind occur
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Please add Briar Bush Nature Center (215-887-6603) to your contacts. It is also suggested that you answer unknown phone numbers while your child is at camp as a staff member may contact you using their cell phone in the case of an emergency.
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Health and Safety
Behavior Policy
Staff, volunteers, and participants deserve a safe and enjoyable camp experience. Campers are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior and follow the Summer Camp Rules as outlined in our Disciplinary Action Policy. Removal from the camp day/program is a possibility depending on the severity and continuation of unacceptable behavior.
Our Summer Camp is an inclusive program in which staff strives to accommodate campers and set them up for success. However, we may not have the capacity for all special medical, behavioral, or social support. Please reach out with questions regarding support for your child.
Please review the Summer Camp Behavior/Disciplinary Policies and Procedures outlined on this page.
Camper Autonomy and Assistance
In order to participate in Summer Camp:
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All campers must be able to communicate their needs to camp staff.
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All campers must be potty-trained and capable of using the restroom on their own.
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If a camper has a minor bathroom-related accident and needs assistance with changing, two staff members may assist the camper.
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If the camper has a major bathroom-related accident, parents/guardians will be contacted to assist the camper with clean-up and changing.
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All campers must be able to change themselves with minimal assistance.
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If a camper needs assistance with changing, two staff members may assist the camper.
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Medical Concerns and Considerations
The health and safety of our campers is our top priority.
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Medical and Pick-Up Consent Form
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After camp registration, the Medical and Pick-Up Consent Form must be completed and submitted through our online registration system.
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A medical form must be completed for each camper before the start of the summer; campers without a completed form are not permitted to attend camp.
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Only one form is required for the camp season.
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If there are changes to the medical form, please contact Melissa Eldridge, Program and Summer Camp Director, at melissa@briarbush.org.
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Medical Conditions
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If you list a medical condition on the medical form, we ask that you provide as much detail relating to the condition as possible.
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If your child is being treated for a condition that is currently managed by a medical professional, you must submit an action plan provided by the medical staff.
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If your child has food/environmental allergies, please note that Briar Bush Nature Center is a public facility and, as a result, not allergen-free.
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Campers will eat together during snack and lunch periods and explore the facilities and grounds at Briar Bush and other locations (Travel Camps).
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Medications
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Dispense any required medications to your child before camp begins.
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If your child is required to take medication during the camp day, indicate your child’s medications on the medical form. Your child must be able to self-administer medication.
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Please note: If camp participants have been prescribed life-saving epinephrine medication, it must be brought to camp, even if the likelihood of needing to administer the medication is slim.
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Accommodations
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At Briar Bush Nature Center, we believe nature is for everyone. If your child requires accommodations while participating in the program, describe those accommodations on the medical form.
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Our Summer Camp is an inclusive program in which staff strives to accommodate campers and set them up for success. Please note that while our staff participates in trainings relating to various cognitive and behavioral conditions/disabilities, staff members are not behavioral intervention professionals and may not have the capacity for all special medical, behavioral, or social support.
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Please reach out with any questions regarding support for your child.
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Special Treats
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Camp staff may distribute a treat to campers, such as popsicles, at the end of each camp week. Camp families may decide to provide treats to campers for their child’s birthday. If your child is unable to consume treats provided by Briar Bush Nature Center and/or camp families, please indicate this on the medical form. You may be asked to provide a substitute so your child can participate.
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Emergencies
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Camp parents/guardians must be reachable by phone throughout the camp day.
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Please add Briar Bush Nature Center (215-887-6603) to your contacts.
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It is also suggested that you answer unknown phone numbers while your child is at camp as a staff member may contact you using their cell phone in the case of an emergency.
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Illness
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If your child isn’t feeling well, please keep them home and report the absence.
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Campers must be fever-free for 24-hours before returning to camp.
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If your child isn’t feeling well while at camp, we will notify you and early pick-up may be necessary.
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Poison Ivy and Ticks
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While exploring in nature, campers may encounter poison ivy and/or ticks. Our staff is knowledgeable in locating both hazards and treating them.
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We will conduct general tick checks during camp. Parents/guardians must check campers for ticks more thoroughly at home.
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Severe Weather
In the case of rain, campers will put on their rain gear and keep exploring! We seek shelter in heavy rain, thunderstorms, excessive heat, and high winds. We will contact families in the event of camp cancellation or early dismissal due to extreme weather conditions.
Camp Day Logistics
Clothing and Packing List
Campers must be appropriately dressed for camp. Campers:
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Must be dressed in comfortable clothing for outdoor play in all types of weather; we’re going to get wet and dirty at nature camp!
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Must be dressed in easy-to-remove clothing to aid in independent restroom use, especially Seedlings Half-Day campers.
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Must wear closed-toed shoes or sandals.
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Flip-flops, slides, and other open-toed shoes are not permitted due to safety concerns.
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We recommend that campers wear shoes that can get wet, then dry quickly, such as Keen sandals or Crocs.
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Please note that special clothing requests, if any, will be included in the Camp Itinerary.
Send your child to camp with a backpack complete with:
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A filled, reusable water bottle between 20oz-32oz
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Campers registered for Travel Camps are required to have larger water bottles as the camp group may be far from a water source while on field trips.
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Snacks
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Seedlings Half-Day campers are scheduled for one snack period.
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Campers in all other camp groups are scheduled for two snack periods.
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Briar Bush Nature Center only distributes a snack if one is forgotten.
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A lunch
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Only Full-Day campers are scheduled for a lunch period; Half-Day campers are not scheduled for lunch.
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Lunches cannot be refrigerated or microwaved.
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A full set of extra clothes and shoes
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Campers may get their clothes wet during camp activities.
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Please pack a full set of extra clothes such as a t-shirt, shorts, underwear, socks, etc.
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If campers elect not to wear Keen sandals or Crocs for the camp day, a pair of water shoes must be packed.
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Swimwear
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Campers registered Full-Day Travel Camps may visit the community pool, creek-walk at local parks, or play in the sprinkler at Briar Bush. It is suggested to pack swimwear even if water activities are not explicitly listed on the camp itinerary.
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On hot days, campers registered for Seedlings Half-Day Camp and Saplings Full-Day Camp may play in the sprinkler at Briar Bush. It is suggested to pack swimwear even if water activities are not explicitly listed on the camp itinerary.
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Hat, sunscreen, and bug spray
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Campers must arrive to camp with sunscreen and bug spray already applied.
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If you need to apply sunscreen and/or bug spray to your child at Briar Bush, please park and apply outside of the Museum; the products may irritate the animals in the Museum.
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Your child may reapply sunscreen and/or bug spray during the camp day.
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Rain gear
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Campers must have a rain jacket packed, even if rain is not expected as pop-up showers can occur during the summer.
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If campers elect to wear Keen sandals or Crocs, rain boots are not required. Rain boots may be packed, but campers may have a difficult time walking the trails in clunky rain boots.
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Please leave umbrellas at home as it is difficult for campers to explore the outdoors in the rain while handling one.
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A plastic bag for wet/dirty clothing
We suggest labeling all items belonging to your child in case they are lost at camp.
Personal items such as electronics, games, toys, stuffed animals, etc. must be left at home. There is a high probability that personal items will get lost or broken during camp. Briar Bush Nature Center is not liable for lost, stolen, or broken personal items.
Camper Drop-Off and Pick-Up
A carline drop-off is implemented for Summer Camp. Parents/guardians will enter the driveway and follow the signs to loop around to the Pavilion and begin the drop-off process with camp staff. Drop-off will begin 15-minutes before the camp start time.
A carline pick-up is implemented for Summer Camp. It is policy for our staff to check photo ID at pickup. If you need to pick-up early or have another adult pick-up who is not on the authorization list, you must contact the Program and Summer Camp Director. Parents/guardians of campers who need assistance settling into the car and buckling up will be asked to park.
Please respect the drop-off/pick-up schedule. A fee of $10.00 will be charged for every 15 minutes you are late to pick-up.
Late Arrival and Early Pick-Up
If your child is registered for Seedlings Half-Day Camp or Saplings Full-Day Camp and you plan to arrive later or pick-up earlier than the scheduled drop-off and pick-up times, please notify camp staff as soon as possible by calling Briar Bush Nature Center at 215-887-6603 or emailing Melissa Eldridge, Program and Summer Camp Director, at melissa@briarbush.org.
As our camp activities, transitions, and field trips are tightly scheduled, we may not be able to accommodate late arrival or early pick-up requests for campers registered for Travel Camps.
Absences
If your child will be absent, please notify camp staff as soon as possible by calling Briar Bush Nature Center at 215-887-6603 or emailing Melissa Eldridge, Program and Summer Camp Director, at melissa@briarbush.org. Please note that refund or credits will not be issued for any missed days.
Extended Care
Before Care is offered from 8:30am-9:30am. After Care is offered from 4:00pm-5:30pm. Registration for Before Care and/or After Care is required prior to the scheduled camp week; you may register for Before Care and/or After Care at the time of registration and up until the Thursday before the camp start date. Extended Care for Overnight Camp is prorated.
Please respect the scheduled drop-off and pick-up times of Extended Care. After Care pick-up after 5:30pm will result in a late fee of $10.00 for every 15 minutes you are late to pick-up.
Activities and Field Trips
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Seedlings Half-Day Camp and Saplings Full-Day Camp
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These camp groups will participate in activities onsite at Briar Bush Nature Center.
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Most activities will directly relate to the camp theme, but campers can always look forward to general summer fun, animal encounters, guided hikes, pond exploration, and visiting the Bird Observatory regardless of the theme.
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Full-Day Travel Camp for Ages 8-9 and Full-Day Travel Camp for Ages 10-12
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These camp groups will participate in some activities at Briar Bush, but will mostly travel in our passenger vans to regional places of interest to participate in activities such as hiking, kayaking, creek-walking, farm tours, and more. These camp groups may also visit the Crestmont Pool during the camp week, especially on excessively hot days. Be sure to assess your child's interests and abilities before registering for camp as your child may not have the opportunity to sit out of certain activities. Specific field trip locations will be listed in the Camp Itinerary.
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Fees for travel and regional field trip admission are included in the camp cost.
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Camp staff drive Briar Bush’s passenger vans, while the Camp Aides help to make the ride enjoyable for campers by playing games, reading stories, etc. All passengers are required to wear seatbelts. If your child requires a booster seat, please indicate this on the medical form and provide it for the camp week.
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Overnight Camp for Ages 13-15
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Campers attend camp at Briar Bush on Monday following typical drop-off (9:15am-9:30am) and pick-up (3:45pm-4:00pm) schedules, then camp overnight at Ricketts Glen State Park from Tuesday through Friday.
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Campers are dropped-off at Briar Bush on Tuesday (9:15am-9:30am), then travel in the Briar Bush van to the State Park.
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On Friday, campers travel back to Briar Bush in time for pick-up (3:45pm-4:00pm).
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Families will receive a Camp Itinerary complete with a schedule, menu, and packing list approximately three weeks in advance of the camp week.
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Fees for travel, lodging, and food are included in the camp cost.
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Summer Camp Behavior/Disciplinary Policies and Procedures
Behavior Expectations and Rules
Staff, volunteers, and participants deserve a safe and enjoyable camp experience. Campers are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior and follow the Summer Camp Rules at all times.
The Summer Camp Rules include:
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Respect yourself, others, nature, and property.
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Listen to your leader and follow directions.
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Stay with your group.
Any behavior that inherently conflicts with the first rule is considered inappropriate behavior.
Accommodations / Support
Our Summer Camp is an inclusive program in which staff strives to accommodate campers and set them up for success. However, we may not have the capacity for all special medical, behavioral, or social support. If your child has one-on-one support in the classroom, we encourage that the support continues during Summer Camp. Please reach out with questions regarding support for your child.
Disciplinary Procedures
Camp staff will provide positive reinforcement for appropriate behaviors such as granting verbal praise and recognition, offering small rewards such as high-fives or stickers, awarding special privileges, etc.
Examples of inappropriate behaviors are listed below, but this is not an extensive list.
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Level 1: Disruptive behaviors
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Offenses: Interrupting the educator, disrupting activities, ignoring directions, etc.
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Level 2: Inappropriate behaviors
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Offenses: Disrespect toward staff/volunteers/participants/animals, defiance/non-compliance toward staff/rules/regulations, refusal to follow directions/group, inappropriate gestures/language, misuse of property, etc.
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Level 3: Aggressive/threatening behaviors that endanger the wellbeing of self, staff/volunteers, participants, and/or animals
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Offenses: Hitting, kicking, shoving, pushing, bullying, threatening language, damaging property, etc.
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Depending on the repetition or severity of a behavior, a particular step or steps may be skipped. Removal from the camp day or camp program as a whole is a possibility depending on the severity or continuation of inappropriate behavior. Camp fees are non-refundable if a child is removed from a camp day or the camp program.
The disciplinary procedures are described below.
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Redirection
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The educator will attempt to redirect the camper and inappropriate behavior by conducting verbal or non-verbal phrases/gestures, standing near off-task camper, asking self-correcting questions, involving/engaging off-task camper in an activity, etc.
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Verbal Warning
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The educator will acknowledge the inappropriate behavior and demand that it stops immediately. The educator will describe the appropriate behavior that is expected and inform the camper that loss of privilege or removal from activity will occur if the inappropriate behavior continues.
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Loss of Privilege / Removal from Activity / Notice to Parents/Guardians
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If the inappropriate behavior continues, the educator will remove a privilege or remove the camper from an activity.
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Loss of Privilege may include the inability to use toys, games, or props; sitting next to a friend; etc.
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Removal from Activity may include the inability to participate in an upcoming lesson, game, or activity.
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The educator will record the incident and action taken. The Program and Summer Camp Director will inform parents/guardians of the incident.
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Discussion with Camp Director / Discussion with Camp Parents
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If the inappropriate behavior continues, the educator will send the camper to speak with the Program and Summer Camp Director. The Program and Summer Camp Director will discuss the behavior with parents/guardians as well as the next steps moving forward.
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The educator and Program and Summer Camp Director will record the incident and action taken.
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Removal from Camp Day / Removal from Camp Program
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A Level 3 Offense or continued inappropriate behavior may result in Removal from Camp Day or Removal from Camp Program.
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The Program and Summer Camp Director will discuss the behavior with parents/guardians as well as the next steps moving forward.
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Refunds are not issued after Removal from Camp Day or Removal from Camp Program.
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Summer Camp Registration
Registration Dates
Members-Only Registration begins at 12:00pm on Thursday, January 28, 2027 for Friends of Briar Bush Members at the Household Level or above.
Registration opens to the public at 12:00pm on Friday, January 29, 2027. Payment is due in full at the time of registration.
Discounts
Friends of Briar Bush Members at the Household Level or above receive a 20% discount on our Summer Camp Programs. You may purchase a membership at the time of registration to take advantage of early enrollment and discounted fees.
Abington Township residents, who do not hold a current FOBB Household Membership, receive a 10% discount. Be sure to register your Abington Township residency on your account to activate the discount on your order.
Discounts apply to camp fees only; extended care is not discounted.
Preparing for Registration
As our Summer Camp Program is in high demand and has a limited number of spaces, camp sessions fill VERY quickly. In order to have the best chance of securing camp spaces, review the following information so that you are properly prepared to complete registration independently. Staff may be available to assist with registration over the phone, but the process will take longer, lowering your chances of securing camp spaces.
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In order to prepare for Summer Camp Registration, be sure to fully review the camp offerings and have your camp choices, and back-up choices, ready to go.
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If you do not already have an account within our online registration system, create an account, purchase a membership, and practice navigating the system so you are familiar with registration.
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If you already have an account within our online registration system, be sure you have the correct User ID and Password. Practice logging into your account and check your membership status.
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As most camps fill at the opening of Members-Only Registration, it may be in your best interest to purchase a FOBB Membership (at the Household Level or above) to have access to registration before the general public. Please note that purchasing a membership does not guarantee space in camp.
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It is recommended to purchase a membership in advance of registration so you will just need to focus on signing waivers/policies and selecting camps at that time. This will also give you experience navigating the registration system in advance of registration day.
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Navigating Registration
It is suggested that you review the step-by-step directions and watch the tutorials on navigating Summer Camp registration in the online system.
Review the following notes regarding other registration considerations.
Accessing the Registration System
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Portions of registration are accessible as early as 12:01 am, but camp weeks cannot be selected until the appropriate registration time. You may need to refresh your browser at the start of the registration time in order to access the remaining portions of registration.
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Please note that inactivity of 30-minutes or more will delete registration progress and you will have to begin again.
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In order to register for Summer Camp during the Members-Only Registration period, you must hold a current Robin (Household) Level Membership on the account you are using to register.
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If you are not a current member at the time of Members-Only Registration, you will not be able to access or register for camp weeks. You must first add the membership to your cart in order to access the camp program selection page.
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You may experience longer system loading times during the registration window due to high traffic.
Selecting Camp Sessions and Waitlist
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Although camp programs may be visible on the Session Events page, those programs may be at full capacity. When adding programs to the participant's schedule, take notice of whether you have been registered or waitlisted.
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We highly encourage joining the waitlist as cancellations may occur, even as early as the day after registration began.
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There is no cost to be added to the waitlist.
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The length of the waitlist will vary by camp type and camp week.
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We cannot predict if or when cancellations will occur.
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If a spot becomes available to you, you will receive a phone call and an email with a deadline to respond.
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You are under no obligation to register for waitlisted camps if they become available to you.
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Extended Care registration remains open until the Thursday before the scheduled camp week. Focus on securing camp weeks before registering for Extended Care.
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Again, please be aware that our camps fill VERY quickly and you may not be able to secure a camp spot even if you've purchased a membership and prepared in advance. If this is the case, join the waitlist during registration. We cannot guarantee spaces or exceed capacity.
Support
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Please understand that our small staff can only support up to four phone lines at a time and we do not have a phone queue.
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If you need immediate assistance with registration, call Briar Bush Nature Center at 215-887-6603. Due to high caller volume, if your call is not answered immediately, call again. Do not leave a message. Do not email for urgent matters.
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For non-urgent matters such as discount issues, waitlist position, and extended care, please email Melissa Eldridge, Program and Summer Camp Director, at melissa@briarbush.org. These matters can be addressed after the initial wave of registration.
Briar Bush Nature Center Summer Camp Checklist
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Review the order receipt emailed after registration to confirm registered and/or waitlisted camp weeks.
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Review the Summer Camp Guide.
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Add Melissa Eldridge (melissa@briarbush.org), Camp Director, as a safe sender in email settings.
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Add Briar Bush Nature Center (215-887-6603) as a phone contact.
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Submit the Medical and Pick-Up Consent Form.
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Email action plans for medical conditions to the Camp Director (if applicable).
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Review the Camp Itinerary sent three weeks before each registered week.
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Label all items that will be packed for camp.
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Pack a backpack complete with:
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reusable water bottle
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snacks
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lunch (full-day)
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extra set of clothes and shoes
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swimwear
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hat
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sunscreen
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bug spray
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rain gear
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plastic bag for wet/dirty clothing
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medication (if required)
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If you have any questions or concerns, please call 215-887-6603 or email melissa@briarbush.org.