Field Trips

School programs are led by an Environmental Education Center (EEC) Naturalist and can be conducted at the EEC or at your school.

For a complete list of school programs please view our School Program Guide.

EEC based programs take full advantage of the park's 500 acres. The park serves as an outdoor classroom where students can use hands-on learning to explore fields, forests, marshes, and swampy areas along the upper reaches of the Passaic River. All program offerings are designed to be supportive of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards (NJCCCS) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). For a complete list of specific NJCCCS and NGSS program connections please view our Curriculum Content List.

Scheduling Guidelines
The Somerset County Park Commission Naturalists want you to enjoy your field trip.  Please keep in mind certain dates fill quickly.  Please book early to ensure availability.  Programs are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

• If scheduling allows, we encourage classes to schedule more than one program during their visit and to plan their lunch break between their first and second programs. 
• We require one chaperone for every 15 students unless otherwise stated.
• Aquatic programs are offered mid-April to mid-October.  To help preserve the diversity of life and the environmental integrity of our ponds, aquatic programs are limited to four classes per week. 
• Consider scheduling a free visit to our interactive, educational exhibit “The Great Swamp Experience".  Recommended 30 minutes, with no more than 20 students at a time.  Adult supervision is required. 
• If your group requires special assistance or has specific interests, please let us know when booking your program. 

Lunch 

• Classes are welcome to bring lunch.  Picnic tables, trash can, recycling, and compost receptacles are available.  An indoor space may be available during inclement or cold weather.  Please inquire about availability when booking your program.
• We request your class to bring lunch in reusable/recyclable containers to reduce their trash impact! 

Weather

• Programs are held outdoors unless dangerous weather conditions exist.  If your trip date forecast looks questionable, please contact us to discuss the options.
• Please ensure that students DRESS APPROPRIATELY.  Waterproof footwear, layers, and rain gear or coats are recommended for a better experience.

Payment Information
Cash, check, credit cards, and purchase orders accepted.

Certificate of Insurance
All schools engaged in formal programing on-site at the Environmental Education Center are required to secure a Certificate of Insurance naming the Somerset County Park Commission as an additional insured for $1,000,000.

For more information or to schedule a program contact Kurt Bender at 908-722-1200 ext. 5332 or kbender@scparks.org.