Churchville Nature Center
501 Churchville Lane
Churchville, PA 18966
(215) 357-4005
www.churchvillenaturecenter.org

Operated by the Bucks County Dept. of Parks and Recreation, this 54-acre nature center is rich in diversity. Woodland, marsh, meadow, pond and lake are all at hand to enjoy and to learn from. Approximately 2 miles of trails have been developed, including one that is wheelchair accessible.

The Visitor Center features a library with an extensive collection of nature-related books and many interpretive displays, including hands-on, interactive exhibits for children. There is also an auditorium for delivering presentations.

Outside visitors can explore a re-created Lenape Indian Village, an Apiary, an historic springhouse and other great features. There is a blind for bird observation and an edible wild foods garden.

This busy center offers a full calendar of workshops, seminars, nature hikes, outings near and far, and special events for the entire family. From beachcombing and bird watching to ecological canoeing trips to star-gazing and studying the life of the Lenape Indian -- these are just a few of the many exciting activities available. Slide shows, lectures, demonstrations and much more are also available throughout the year. Call for a calendar or better yet become a member. Children, by the way, can have a great birthday party here.

School Groups can take advantage of a wide range of programs for Pre-K and above. Group sizes are kept to 10 - 15 children (larger groups would be split) so each child gets plenty of attention. Most programs last 1½ hours and all stress hands-on activities. Following are just some of the programs available: Nature Awareness (Pre-K and up): a seasonal tour through the woods focusing on the use of the five senses to explore the natural world; Pond Life (1 and up): introduces students to the many plants and animals that live in the Dragonfly Pond and nearby. Students catch and study various creatures; The Food Web (4 and up): explores the relationships between the animals and plants in our world -- including us!; Birds of a Feather (2 and up): studies birds and their characteristics, including observation from the bird blind; Extended Program at the Lenape Village (4 and up): this 3½ hour program rotates students through seven study stations, each introducing another aspect of the daily life of the Lenape. Lessons and demonstrations cover gardening and horticulture, family life, hunting skills, fire making, pottery, food and cooking, and natural cordage (use of natural fibers to make string, rope, etc.).