Nature at your doorstep.

873 Boston Post Road - Rye, NY

Trails open daily from sunrise to sunset

Celebrate with Friends of Rye Nature Center
at our annual Nature Access Fund Benefit.

American Yacht Club, Rye NY
May 30, 2025 – 6:30 - 9:30

Get your tickets today!

New Programs Added!

where learning is a walk in the park

The forest is a perpetual teacher, and FRNC offers programs for all ages and abilities. Whether it’s our engaging Forest Preschool program, an Afterschool Club for your elementary-aged child, a weekend event for your family, or an enriching volunteer opportunity as a citizen scientist, the Rye Nature Center Forest is the place to be.

Forest Preschool

Registration is now open!

Experience the joy of nature-based learning with our Forest Preschool! Designed for young explorers, our program fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for the outdoors through hands-on experiences and play.

  • Forest Preschool

    Friends of Rye Nature Center’s Forest Preschool nurtures a lifelong connection to nature through outdoor experiential learning.

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  • Afterschool Clubs

    FRNC's afterschool clubs offer students the chance to explore the outdoors while learning something new each session.

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  • My Naturalist and Me

    Join us for a fun-filled hour of nature activities with your little one, featuring animal encounters, crafts, and short hikes.

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  • School's Out Workshops

    When school is out, our workshops provide outdoor adventure and exploration for children ages 3.5 to 10.

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  • Summer Camp

    FRNC’s summer day camp offers outdoor adventure, ecological exploration, and hands-on learning through fun, nature-based activities.

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  • Paddle Adventure Camp

    PAC offers kayaking, hiking, and outdoor fun for campers in grades 8-10, building skills and confidence in a safe, exciting environment.

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  • June Bugs

    June Bugs is a summer program for children ages 3.5 to 6, offering outdoor activities, crafts, games, and hands-on ecology lessons in the Rye Nature Center forest.

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View All Classes

Weekend & Public Programs

Engage in weekend adventures and public programs tailored for every age group. Dive into our captivating array of activities designed to spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.

All Events
Forest Explorers - Spring Session
Apr 22
Forest Explorers - Spring Session

This program uses Swiss concepts and the principles of place-based education to encourage children's connection with the natural world and nurture their curiosities.

Trivia Night at the Museum
Apr 23
Trivia Night at the Museum

Grab your favorite brainiac and head up the hill for an Earth-Day inspired trivia night. We'll celebrate the update to our Visitor Center as we put our wits and knowledge to the test!

REGISTER >

Wilderness Encounters - Spring Session
Apr 24
Wilderness Encounters - Spring Session

Take the next step in your naturalist education! This immersive outside program challenges participants to use their imagination, energy, and teamwork to better understand our local woodlands.

My Naturalist and Me
Apr 25
My Naturalist and Me

Stop by this fun-filled hour with your child(ren). Learn all about nature through fun activities like animal meet and greets, crafts, and short hikes.

Intro To Birding
Apr 26
Intro To Birding

Learn more about our local birds as they start to migrate back to the area.
REGISTER >

Forest Explorers - Spring Session
Apr 29
Forest Explorers - Spring Session

This program uses Swiss concepts and the principles of place-based education to encourage children's connection with the natural world and nurture their curiosities.

Wilderness Encounters - Spring Session
May 1
Wilderness Encounters - Spring Session

Take the next step in your naturalist education! This immersive outside program challenges participants to use their imagination, energy, and teamwork to better understand our local woodlands.

My Naturalist and Me
May 2
My Naturalist and Me

Stop by this fun-filled hour with your child(ren). Learn all about nature through fun activities like animal meet and greets, crafts, and short hikes.

Nature News

Latest Posts

Nature News
No Room for This Bloom: Invasive Plants to Look Out for This Spring  
No Room for This Bloom: Invasive Plants to Look Out for This Spring  
Rye Nature Center’s New and Improved Visitor Center!
Rye Nature Center’s New and Improved Visitor Center!
Bringing Nature to New Reaches  
Bringing Nature to New Reaches  

Mission Statement

Friends of Rye Nature Center (FRNC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization which offers programs to people of all ages and abilities. We encourage conservation, provide environmental education, and support our community’s access to nature.