Nature Study Retreat 2026

2026 Nature Study Retreat

Registration begins March 15, 2025

The beauty of the Hocking Hills will be showcased in everything we do — from hikes and nature programs, to crafts and outings. The John Glenn Astronomy Park is right around the corner from camp, and we’ve included it in a special night program.

This year, we are including an optional art program — a guided “paint on canvas” session. This will be an added cost (see registration form), and you’ll walk away with a lovely 11 x 14” painting to remind you of your time at camp.

Nature Study will begin Sunday, Sept. 13, with an afternoon check-in and dinner, and will conclude Friday, Sept. 18, after breakfast. Accommodations are dormitory style, with plenty of bottom bunks and shared bathroom facilities. We should all be able to stay in the same building, although special accommodations can be made for couples. Part-time attendance is fine.

Below are some highlights:

Sunday, Sept. 13 — Check-in, make name tags and enjoy dinner.

Monday-Thursday — 7 a.m. Daily nature hike

Monday, Sept 14 — 9:30 a.m. The Geology of Hocking Hills with ODNR; 1 p.m. Trip to Butterfly Ridge; 7 p.m. Campfire

Tuesday, Sept 15 — 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Visits to Bishop Gardens and Wahkeena Nature Preserve, with boxed lunch; Evening: John Glenn Astronomy Park

Wednesday, Sept. 16 — 10:30 a.m. Plant auction preview; 1 - 4:30 p.m. Guided walk through Hocking Hills geologic wonders; 7 p.m. Plant auction

Thursday, Sept. 17 — 9 a.m. Mushrooms!; 1-3 p.m. Painting with Hocking Hills Paint Parties; 7 p.m. Campfire (rain date for John Glenn Astronomy Park)

Friday, Sept. 18: Closing remarks and departure

ATTENDANCE AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION FOR JUNIORS

Juniors may attend NSR with an adult, who will room with and participate in programs with the junior attendee. Any junior (under the age of 18) attending NSR for the first time may apply for scholarship assistance by submitting a letter explaining why they want to attend. Please email this letter to NSR coordinator Sue Hagan, oagcnature@gmail.com, She will forward the request to the OAGC Foundation. Please include your name, address, phone number, and age. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Aug. 1. This will allow enough time for the Foundation to review the application before the NSR registration deadline.

Old Man's Cave Upper Falls