Cape May National Wildlife Refuge is buzzing with activity this summer, offering a variety of family-friendly programs that connect visitors with nature in creative and educational ways.
The Plein Air Watercolor Workshop will be held on Thursday, July 17 and Thursday, August 20 from 1 PM to 3 PM. Participants can meet at the Visitor Center and are welcome to use the refuge’s supplies or bring their own. A $10 donation is appreciated. Be sure to dress for the weather, wear sunscreen, and bring a beach chair. Seating is limited, so advance registration via email is required.
For younger artists, Nature Art sessions will take place Thursday, July 17 and August 14 at 10 AM. These fun, hands-on classes let school-aged children (accompanied by an adult) explore nature through painting, collage, and crafts. All materials are provided, and the event is free. Each class is limited to 15 participants, so registration is also required by email.
Nature Story Hour happens every Wednesday from June 25 through August 20 at 9:30 AM. Children ages 3 and up (with an adult) can enjoy picture books about sea creatures, nature, and kindness, followed by a themed craft or activity. This program is free and does not require registration.
Weekly Nature Walks are held every Saturday at 9 AM. These easy, educational hikes are open to all ages. Children are welcome, and binoculars are available to borrow. Just wear weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
The Bike and Hike program invites guests to ride their bikes to the refuge anytime between 9 AM and 12 PM, Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays). After registering at the Nature Center and completing an activity, participants receive a free sports pack and goodies.
Wild Walks with Ranger Olivia begin at 11 AM and include a guided tour of one of the refuge’s trails. Guests can learn about the unique plants and animals that live in the coastal dunes and marshes. July walk dates are the 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th, and 30th. In August, walks are scheduled for the 1st, 6th, 8th (which includes a “Make Your Own Binoculars” activity), 13th, 15th, 20th, and 22nd. For updates, contact Olivia via Facebook (@Cape May Supwana Meadows National Wildlife Refuge) or by email at olivia_a_bedella@fws.gov.
Additional programs with Ranger Olivia include Secrets of the Beach on Saturday, July 19 at 2 PM, a Summer Egg Hunt on Thursday, July 24 at 12 PM, and Explaining Decline on Tuesday, July 29 at 11 AM.
The Nature Visitor Center and Store are open Wednesday through Monday from 9 AM to 3 PM (closed Tuesdays). Kids can enjoy the Touch Table, earn a Junior Wildlife Refuge Badge, and explore the Craft Table.
A special thank-you goes out to Behr Brewery and event facilitator Carolyn Redmond for hosting the recent 5K run. A portion of the proceeds supported Friends of Cape May National Wildlife Refuge. As a nonprofit organization, donations are always welcome and help us continue preserving and protecting this special place. To contribute or register for programs, email friendsofcapemayrefuge@gmail.com.
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