Our Vacation Programs

We offer seasonal nature education programs that coincide with the Darien Public School’s vacation schedule. These vacation programs are packed with nature discovery activities designed to peak a child’s innate curiosity for the world around them.

Crickets Camp

  • Offered during the April break
  • For children 2+

Chipmunks Camp

  • Offered at the end of summer
  • For children 3+

Snowbirds Camp

  • Offered during the December break
  • For children 2+

Groundhogs Camp

  • Offered during the February break
  • For children 2+

Snowbirds Camp

Winter Break Camp
Session Dates: December 16 - 19, 2024

Join us for this special vacation program. In our snow suits and boots we’ll be searching for signs of Winter and learning about what animals do to survive the cold weather. Natural crafting, baking, and science experiments will have a festive and wintery theme. 

Groundhogs Camp

February Break Camp
Session Dates: February 18-21, 2025

Get out of the long winter slump and spend the school recess outdoors! This nature education program will include seasonal activities like finding animal tracks, building snow forts, warming up around a campfire, and much more!

Crickets Camp

April Break Camp
Session Dates: April 14 - 17, 2025

Celebrate the start of a new season! Crickets campers will search for signs of spring in the woods and pond of Cherry Lawn Park. Throughout the week we will learn about how the warmer weather affects local wildlife. Campers will also be creating nature crafts and enjoying our selection of animals

Chipmunks Camp

End-of-Summer Camp
Session Dates: August 25-27, 2025
9:30 AM - 1:30 PM
For children 3 to 6 years old.

Chipmunks campers will spend lots of time soaking up the sunshine as Summer becomes Fall. Darien Nature Center educators will lead children on exploration activities throughout Cherry Lawn Park.

If you have any questions, please review the FAQ section below, then email registration@dariennaturecenter.org or call us at 203-655-7459.

Vacation Program FAQs

  • When does registration start for vacation camps?

    Regristration will start leading up to each camp session. Please look out for emails related to camp registration. You can sign up for our emailing list at the bottom of this page.

  • How can I be added to the waitlist?

    If your first choice(s) are not available, you can be added to the waitlist by emailing registration@dariennaturecenter.org with your request.

  • What forms are required for vacation camp programs?

    Please review our Mandatory Forms page for information regarding specific enrollment and medical forms required for each program. 

  • What is our vacation camp refund policy?

    Vacation Camp Refund Policy: If you choose to withdraw your child for any reason, the Darien Nature Center must be notified of a cancellation two (2) weeks prior to the start of a program to receive a refund. If and when your child’s space can be filled, then 75% of the program fee will be refunded. If the space cannot be filled, then 50% of the program fee will be refunded. There are no refunds for withdrawals made within two (2) weeks of a program start date.


  • Is a membership required to enroll in vacation camps?

    Yes. A membership is required to register for all vacation camps.