SOUTH SHORE YMCA NATURE CENTER

About Us

South Shore YMCA Nature Center

The South Shore YMCA Nature Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the education of natural and cultural environments of the South Shore.

Our mission is to provide natural science experiences that educate, excite, and commit all generations to preserve the environment and encourage responsible use, stewardship, and enjoyment of our natural resources.

Located on 30 acres surrounded by 200 acres of town conservation/recreation land consisting of meadows, woodland, and a pond, the South Shore YMCA Nature Center is home to our Nature Center Preschool and summer day camp, Nature Adventures Camp.

Plan a Visit

  • Nature Center located on 30 acres
  • Six interpretive nature trails
  • Access to 200 acres of conservation land
  • Children’s Garden
  • EcoZone Museum

Building & EcoZone Museum Hours*

Monday – 9:00am – 1:00pm

Tuesday – 9:00am – 4:00pm

Wednesday – 9:00am – 4:00pm

Thursday – 9:00am – 4:00pm

Friday – 9:00am – 4:00pm

Saturday / Sunday: Check website for special programs

*Entry to the EcoZone Museum is free for self-guided visits during operating hours, but may be limited when a paid program is in session. Please call ahead to confirm before your visit.

Trail Hours

Open daily from dawn to dusk!

Friendly Reminder: We are an outdoor education center with numerous programs and a preschool onsite. While education programs are in session, you’re welcome to explore areas of the property not in use!

Please leave all pets at home for the safety of the animals at the center. Enjoy your visit!

Our Programs

Nature Center Preschool

Nature Center Preschool at the South Shore YMCA Natural Science Center supports young children’s investigations and ignites their passion for learning. By highlighting the interconnectedness of humans with the natural world, we provide a foundation of stewardship, inquiry, and innovative thinking.

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Kids playing with a chicken.

Nature Adventures Summer Camp

Our Nature Adventures Camp is an outdoor recreational summer day camp that offers exciting opportunities for children to learn about the natural world while they explore our 30 acres of woodlands and fields, with rambling nature trails, numerous vernal pools and quick access to Jacobs Pond.

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Plan a Visit

Visit us to explore our interpretive nature trails for hiking, access to 200 acres of conservation land, an outdoor amphitheater and picnic area, Children's Garden, birds...and more.

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Support the Nature Center

When you donate to the South Shore YMCA Nature Center to help maintain our facilities and grounds, you also support the education and enjoyment of our natural resources on the South Shore. Support the Nature Center