Outdoors with kids in MA: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

Looking to get outdoors with kids in MA no matter the season? Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary is an accessible, kid-friendly sanctuary in Easthampton, Massachusetts. Arcadia has all sorts of things to keep the family busy, including a network of easy trails, a wetland boardwalk, and an observation tower. Near the parking lot and visitor center, there is a nature play area, complete with a tepee and “stump jump”. For the bird enthusiast, Arcadia is host to a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, red-tail hawks, and blue herons.

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

We got to know Arcadia through their wonderful kids’ education programs: both of our children have attended (or currently attend) the Arcadia Nature Preschool. In addition to its preschool and summer camps, Arcadia hosts a variety of programs with local schools, scout groups, and home-school programs. It’s a wonderful organization with the objective of fostering a love of nature and conservation in young kids. Check out their website before you visit for maps, information packets, and a nature bingo card!

Travel Tip: One word of caution: the vernal pool directly behind the visitor center and the proximity to the Mill River and the oxbow of the Connecticut River means that Arcadia can be a haven for mosquitoes in the summer. Bring your bug spray!

Travel Gear We Use: Stonz Wear Booties and Mittz
new-masthead.logo.042513Stonz is a children’s outerwear and boot company homegrown in Vancouver, BC. Pit Stops’ kids is partnering with Stonz this fall to help families get outfitted for winter travel. Yes, our kids wear Stonz on our own adventures! See our own Greta in Stonz booties and mitts at Arcadia in the photo above. Why Stonz booties? These easy-to-slip-on-and-off boots for toddlers and preschoolers feature water-resistant nylon uppers and sherpa fleece liners. They tighten and loosen with a toggle, and yes, they have soles that can actually go outside! Stonz Mittz are just as little-kid friendly: these rugged mittens are also adjusted by toggle, and reach all the way to the elbow for full coverage. Buy Stonz booties
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Date last visited:

Every week!

Distance from the interstate:

About 3–4 miles from exit 18 off I-91.

Hours of operation:

Trails (and bathrooms!) are open daily, from dawn to dusk. The visitor center is open Monday–Thursday and Saturday, 9–12; Friday 9–3:30.

Admission or ticket prices:

Free to members of Mass Audubon, non-member adults $4, children 2–12 and seniors 65+ $3.

Food services:

Bring a picnic! There are tables near the visitor center and nature play area.

Directions:

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 127 Combs Road, Easthampton, MA. Directions can be found on www.googlemaps.com When you get close, blue and white Mass Audubon signs point the way!

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