Located inside the Capital Beltway, Mount Rainier Nature/Recreation Center is a unique facility which operates as both a nature center and a recreation center. The facility hosts a variety of nature-related, interpretive programs for visitors of all ages. Programs related to nature study, urban wildlife, urban beautification, and animal care are offered at the center. In addition to the structured programs held at the facility, drop-in visitation at the site affords opportunities to view special displays and exhibits, as well as participate in a variety of community outreach nature programs. The center also hosts special events and interesting trips for residents and visitors of all ages, and is available for birthday parties and room rentals. Mount Rainier Nature/Recreation Center's programs mix fun with education, making nature exciting to experience. Contact staff at the number above for information about programs, hours of operation, or rental opportunities, and explore Nature Programs to learn more about upcoming activities at this facility and others.

Call for 301-927-2163 for more information on the events below:

Monday, July 7-Friday, July 11, 9 am-4:30 pm
Xtreme Teens: Summer Day Camp: Extreme Adventurers
Embark on adventures such as canoeing, whitewater rafting, biking, hiking or geocaching. Participants provide their own bikes, bike helmets, sleeping bags and backpacks for overnight camping on Thursday night. Activities may vary. Please contact facility for details. NOTE: Extended care is not available.
Ages 11-13
Fee: Resident $185; Non-Resident $225
SMARTlink #117857

Monday, July 14-Friday, July 18, 9 am-4:30 pm
Summer Day Camp: Outdoor Explorers
Experience nature through indoor and outdoor games, crafts, and hands-on animal and plant activities. NOTE: Extended care is not available.
Ages 6-7
Fee: Resident $105; Non-Resident $130
SMARTlink #117860

Saturday, July 19, 11-11:45 am
Puppet Theater: The Missing Pies
What animal is responsible for the missing pies? After the show the children will make a craft. Reservations required.
All ages welcome. FREE
SMARTlink #120394

Monday, July 21-Friday, July 25, 9 am-4:30 pm
Summer Day Camp: Wetland Wanderers
Explore local ponds, rivers, and streams on foot and by boat. Activities include the catch, study, and release of wetland creatures and daily expeditions to search for wildlife clues. Learn to maintain an aquarium and use water-testing equipment. NOTE: Extended care is not available.
Ages 8-10
Fee: Resident $120; Non-Resident $145
SMARTlink #118224

Wednesday, July 23, 6-7:30 pm
Canoe & Kayak Kaper: Berwyn Heights
Enjoy a guided canoe or kayak tour on Lake Artemesia. Reservations required. Participants may bring their own canoe or kayak, or rent one from the center - limited number of canoes/kayaks.
Ages 3 & up
With canoe/kayak rental: Resident $7; Non-Resident $8
Without canoe/kayak rental: Resident $3; Non-Resident $5
SMARTlink #121204

Monday, July 28-Friday, Aug 1, 9 am-12 noon
Summer Day Camp: Nature Seekers
Learn about the world of nature through crafts, hikes, stories and games in this half-day camp. Themes include Forests, Wetlands, Animals, and Plants. Snacks provided. NOTE: Extended care is not available.
Ages 4-5
Fee: Resident $65; Non-Resident $75
SMARTlink #117819

Saturday, August 2, 10 am-5 pm
Adventure Seekers: Boyds, MD
Enjoy canoeing in Black Hill Regional Park. Bring a bag lunch and a drink. Fee includes transportation. Reservations required.
Ages 8-12
Fee: Resident $1; Non-Resident $2
SMARTlink #120390

Wednesday, August 6, 7:30-8:30 am
Bird Walk: Berwyn Heights
Enjoy a peaceful morning bird walk at Lake Artemesia Natural Area. Participants should meet at the kiosk near the front gate. Reservations required.
Ages 18 & up
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3
SMARTlink #123714

Saturday, August 16, 11-11:45 am
Puppet Theater: Geoffrey the Rabbit Gets Lost
Geoffrey gets lost in the forest and meets other animals. After the show, children will make a craft. Reservations required.
All ages welcome. FREE
SMARTlink #120395

Wednesday, August 20, 6-7:30 pm
Canoe & Kayak Kaper: Berwyn Heights
Enjoy a guided canoe or kayak tour on Lake Artemesia. Reservations required.
Ages 3 & up
Fee without canoe/kayak: Resident $7; Non-Resident $8
Fee with canoe/kayak fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $5
SMARTlink #121205

Friday, August 22, 6:30-8 pm
Campfire: Butterflies of Summer
Enjoy a beverage and s'mores as a naturalist discusses butterflies. Reservations required.
All ages welcome.
Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3
SMARTlink #120535