Naturalist Program Path
Discover the wonders of nature. Follow your curiosity. Find your adventure!
There’s a whole world waiting to be discovered at Bryant Pond! From the forests surrounding Mt. Christopher to the waters of Lake Christopher, the Naturalist Path invites campers to explore, investigate, and connect with Maine’s remarkable natural environment.
Whether they’re searching for aquatic creatures, uncovering hidden gemstones, identifying wildlife, or finding inspiration for their next artistic creation, campers experience the excitement of learning through hands-on exploration and outdoor adventure.
And sometimes, the most memorable discoveries happen when you least expect them—a frog along the shoreline, evidence of glaciers on a mountain trail, or the call of a barred owl echoing through the woods as loons sing across the lake.
Our Naturalist Path offers a variety of programs for different ages and interests. Each provides its own unique experience, allowing campers to follow their curiosity, try something new, and discover the natural world in ways that inspire them.
Explore Our Naturalist Programs
Junior Explorer | Ages 7–10
Big discoveries for our youngest nature explorers!
From investigating the creatures living in Discovery Pond to exploring forests and waterways, Junior Explorer introduces young campers to the wonders of nature through hands-on discovery, games, and outdoor adventures. It’s a fun and welcoming way to build curiosity, confidence, and friendships while experiencing the excitement of overnight camp.
Treasure Camp | Ages 7–10
Dig deeper. Discover hidden treasures!
Young treasure hunters explore Maine’s fascinating rocks, minerals, and natural history while searching through authentic mine tailings in Bryant Pond’s mineral pit. A visit to the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum in Bethel adds another exciting dimension, where campers can see extraordinary gemstones and even rocks from the Moon and Mars!
Aqua Adventures | Ages 7–10
Make a splash and discover the world of water!
For campers who love being in and around the water, Aqua Adventures combines swimming, kayaking, aquatic wildlife exploration, and plenty of summer fun. From discovering lake habitats to experiencing the excitement of Bryant Pond’s Aqua Zipline, this program is filled with opportunities for adventure, friendship, and discovery.
Natural Explorer | Ages 10–13
Take your curiosity into the wild!
Natural Explorer invites campers to take a closer look at Maine’s forests, waterways, plants, and wildlife through outdoor exploration and hands-on learning. With opportunities to investigate natural habitats, develop outdoor skills, and discover the connections within the natural world, campers experience a week of curiosity, adventure, and discovery.
Rock Hounds | Ages 12–14
Unearth Maine’s geological wonders!
Rock Hounds takes campers deeper into the fascinating world of gemstones, minerals, and the forces that shaped Maine’s landscape. From searching for specimens in our on-site sluiceway to exploring glacial formations on Mt. Christopher, campers combine geological discovery with map and compass skills, GPS navigation, and geocaching adventures.
Nature Arts Exploration | Ages 10–15
Where nature inspires creativity!
From watercolor painting and charcoal sketching to nature journaling and creating art with natural materials, campers discover new ways to express their creativity. Whether sketching the view from Mt. Christopher or finding inspiration along the shoreline, Nature Arts Exploration blends artistic expression, outdoor discovery, and traditional summer camp fun.
Separate sessions are offered for ages 10–13 and 13–15.
