(9-12 yrs.) See how the park’s geology is affected by the hydrology of the Pohick Creek which runs through it. Explore both the aquatic and terrestrial environs as campers learn what rocks/minerals, fish, and plants call this home. This camp has a very active field study approach with hands-on learning in the natural setting.

(3-8 yrs.) Learn about animal adaptations while you munch on cookies and lemonade. Enjoy a story, craft and trail activity along a short hike. Child must be accompanied by an adult.

(3-Adult) It's dinner time at the nature center and worms and insects are on the menu. Help our naturalist care for and feed the nature center's animals.

(2-5 yrs.) Dig down deep and investigate who lives in the dark, damp world under the forest floor as we learn about moles, earthworms, termites and the many other creatures of the soil. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

(4-7 yrs.) Explore the woods, creeks and ponds as we look for all sorts of critters. Learn about the animal life science of frogs, toads, birds, mammals, snakes, turtles, fish and insects through hikes, projects and games.

(9-13 yrs.) Develop archery skills using Olympic-style (recurve) bows. Through focused instruction, learn shooting techniques and attention to detail. Campers also enjoy mini-golf, nature hikes along the lakefront and other outdoor activities. Camp operation is subject to weather and is held at the archery field to the right as you enter the park. No camp July 3.

(6-9 yrs.) Discover the shapes, colors, textures and patterns hidden in the natural world through scientific exploration. Paint with natural dyes, sculpt with clay, craft musical instruments, design jewelry, create a mosaic and more. Camp includes an off-site day trip.

(7-11 yrs.) Let nature be your classroom as you experiment outdoors with different art media. Our colorful gardens, streams, ponds and woodlands provide creative inspiration. Each day features different artists and art forms, honing your creative skills as you create your own work of art.

(5-8yrs) Investigate the properties of water and air, make bubbling concoctions, learn about electricity, and the science of bubbles. Older campers will also learn about bacteria and DNA.

(8-12yrs) Investigate the properties of water and air, make bubbling concoctions, learn about electricity, and the science of bubbles. Older campers will also learn about bacteria and DNA.

(6-Adult) Join a naturalist to discover the facts, fiction and folklore about nature’s only true flying mammal- bats. We will set the record straight about these incredible but often-misunderstood group of animals. The program will start with a presentation followed by a night walk where we will use a special acoustic device to listen for and identify bat calls not heard with the human ear.

(5-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the whole family can enjoy. Explore the wonders of our natural world through nature walks, interactive activities and animal presentations. Includes s’mores. Topics vary by date. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

(4-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the whole family can enjoy. During the program we will explore the wonders of our natural world. Our programs may include nature walks, interactive activities, animal presentations, or other opportunities to learn about nature and our place in it. Includes s’mores. Topics vary by date. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

This program satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. Scouts must complete all prework before the start of class. Pre-work and program details available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scouts. Scouts unable to complete all requirements may receive partial credit from their merit badge counselor.

This program satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. Scouts must complete all prework before the start of class. Pre-work and program details available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scouts. Scouts unable to complete all requirements may receive partial credit from their merit badge counselor.

(6-10 yrs.) From tadpoles to meadow voles, water is needed for all living things. Join us for this mostly outdoor camp as we explore many features of the watershed and learn about animals that depend on it. Be prepared to get wet, do cool experiments and learn how humans affect the quality of water in our rivers and streams.

(9-12 yrs.) Dig in the soil to find treasures from the past. Campers will learn about the people of Fairfax County and their interaction with land over time from the found artifacts. Discover how scientists use techniques like ground excavation and artifact analysis to decode the mysteries of history.

Campers will become junior paleontologists as naturalists lead discovery of the latest in dinosaur knowledge through crafts, games and fossils.

(6-11 yrs.) Join our park naturalists as we search for inspiration from nature’s engineers-honeybees, beavers, birds and plants. Test out different materials to create things that blend in, shelter, float or fly. Explore the great outdoors using nature as inspiration to create your own inventions.

Wave a magic wand and reveal an enchanted world of mythical beings who call the forests, streams, and meadows their home. Through imaginative play and exploration, campers will discover the magical essence of nature through traditional fairytale folklore inspired by different cultures around the world. Campers will investigate the science of our natural world through experiments, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, games, and storytelling. No camp June 19.

(7-11 yrs.) Dig deep into Virginia’s history, from the age of the dinosaurs and ancient plants through the revolutionary war to current times. Try your hand at archaeology while you handle artifacts found right here at Green Spring. Explore local geology and learn about the secrets of soil and the critters that live beneath our feet. Featuring daily nature walks, crafts, and experiments. This program links to the va250 and Fairfax250 commemoration.

(8-12 yrs.) Explore the science behind the animals that live at Frying Pan Farm Park. Learn about the habits and biology of our farm animals and their wild ancestors. Meet the countless creatures that live in stream and forest habitats. Activities include hands-on lessons with farm animals, nature hikes, games and crafts.

This program satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. Scouts must complete all prework before the start of class. Pre-work and program details available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scouts. Scouts unable to complete all requirements may receive partial credit from their merit badge counselor.

(6-9 yrs.) Through experiments, campers will learn how weather impacts the earth, the role plants play as a natural force, and what animals change to their environment. No camp June 19 or July 3.

(Adults) Experience Green Spring Gardens with all your senses. Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide and co-founder of local nonprofit Capital Nature, Ana Ka’ahanui, to slow down and connect with nature on a peaceful walk inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku that will help reduce blood pressure, boost immunity and enhance mood and creativity. Bring something to sit on the ground, which may be damp, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather.

This program satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. Scouts must complete all prework before the start of class. Pre-work and program details available at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scouts. Scouts unable to complete all requirements may receive partial credit from their merit badge counselor.

(6-Adult) Enjoy nature's tranquil beauty and the night sky under a full moon. Take a hike through the woods to listen and look for signs of nocturnal animals that may be flying overhead or stirring beneath our feet. Enjoy a campfire after the hike with s'mores provided. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

(7-12) Experience all the aspects of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) as we explore animal adaptations of local wildlife through engaging and hands-on projects.

(All Ages) Come explore the many wonders Hidden Pond has to offer. Each family-friendly session features a different theme—ranging from animal talks to hands-on pond netting and other interactive activities. Join us to discover something new about nature every time you visit.