Have you been searching for environmental programs that will introduce your students to the world of nature?

Charlotte's Quest Nature Center might be the answer. We are providing interactive programs and learning activities for schools, home schooled children and child-care providers in order to develop a sensitivity and concern for the environment, as well as to awaken a sense of wonder. It is our goal to create a love of nature. We want to inspire you to use our "outdoor classroom" as an extension to your daily learning activities. Immerse your students in a natural environment at Charlotte's Quest with a nature walk field trip and introductory lesson on one of the many topics we can provide. We welcome your visit to Charlotte's Quest Nature Center.

Field Trip Information

Charlotte's Quest offers field trips for public and private groups. We try to tailor our field trips to complement Public School curriculums. Teachers may call the Center to discuss options for their students to best suit your curriculum and the capabilities of the students. Home school groups, preschools, and daycares and others are welcome to schedule a field trip. Children with Special Needs are welcome. Let us know of your special students' needs so that we can tailor a program especially suited for them.

FIELD TRIP PREPARATION Most field trips are held outdoors. Children and adults should dress according to the weather conditions. Your school should bring one chaperone for every 10 students. Depending upon the age of the children and the type of activity they are doing, we may request additional chaperones for the safety of all children.

FIELD TRIP SUBJECTS AVAILABLE

Animals	Birds	Trees
Flowers	Plants	Insects
Spiders	Soil	Pond Life
Earth Day Activities

These are just a few of the topics that we could study with you. If you wish for a specific topic not listed, please call and discuss your options.

WHAT ARE OUR HOURS OF OPERATION?

Field trips are scheduled weekdays by appointment.

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD ON THE DAY OF OUR OUTING?

Talk with the Naturalist about this in advance. You may still be able to visit and have your program adapted for the weather or you may reschedule.

OTHER TERMS

Chaperones: As noted above sufficient supervision is required at all times. Your school should bring one chaperone for every 10 students attending. Depending upon the age of the students and the type of activity they are doing, we may request additional chaperones for the safety of all children.
Be aware that large groups of 15 or more may be divided into smaller groups.
The cost for chaperones is the same as for students.
Availability: Check our online events calendar
Fees: The cost per field trip is $2.00 per person with a $25.00 minimum. For our Naturalist to visit your facility (Outreach Program) the cost is $2.00 per person with a $50.00 minimum. We do not at this time accept credit cards.
Please make checks payable to the Manchester Parks Foundation or pay in cash. If you pay in cash, your payment must be exact for the number of visitors, as change cannot be made.
Cancellations: To cancel or alter your field trip plans; please call 410-258-6357 or Email Us as soon as possible. Any reductions in your reservation numbers or field trip cancellations need to be made up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled visit.

TO REGISTER FOR A FIELD TRIP: For your convenience we have an answering machine for when we are unable to answer the telephone. Please leave a message and your call will be returned as soon as possible. Let us know the grade level and nature topic that interests you. We are looking forward to working with you and fulfilling your request.

click here to register online

click here to print mailable version

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Charlotte's Quest
NATURE CENTER

A Non-Profit Organization

Charlotte's Quest NATURE CENTER
3400 Wilhelm Lane
Manchester, Maryland 21102
410.374.3395

Email Us

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HOURS OF OPERATION

Charlotte's Quest is under the direction of the Manchester Parks Foundation and the Town of Manchester. Charlotte's Quest Nature Center is operated by volunteers and one paid staff member, the Naturalist, and is maintained by donations, grants, memberships, and in-kind gifts. No government funding is received.

The Nature Center's Interpretive Building will be open:

the First Sunday of each month: 
12:30 PM until 4 PM (except holidays)
and during special events and programs

Weekdays: 
are by appointment

Our 4 1/2 miles of trails, Walnut Pond, the Stream of Life, the natural springs and forests are open everyday from dawn until dusk. You are welcome to park and walk in.

Feel free to park at the gate and walk in during the hours that the Interpretive Building is not open.

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MISSION

It is the mission of the Manchester Parks Foundation to be stewards of the environment by protecting the watershed area and our precious natural resources, by teaching environmental education to the public, by the restoring of the native plants and animals, and by maintaining a diverse natural world.

The Manchester Parks Foundation is the caretakers of Charlotte's Quest Nature Center and Pine Valley Park.

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CHARLOTTE'S QUEST
NATURE CENTER
and Pine Valley Park

RULES AND REGULATIONS

These rules are intended to secure the fullest enjoyment of the facilities for our visitors. The commission of offenses under local ordinances or state law shall be cause for arrest.

• Park grounds are open to the public from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
• Park facilities are available for public use on a first come, first serve basis except for areas that have been previously reserved.
• No fires permitted without prior permission
• Vehicles are restricted to designated roads and parking areas only.
• No alcoholic beverages allowed on park property.
• No dumping or littering on park property, all trash must be carried out.
• All pets must be under owner's control at all times. (Please carry doggie do out with you.)
• No weapons or firearms (including BB guns) allowed on park property.
• No person may hunt, trap or endanger animals in any way.
• No boating or swimming allowed in park.
• Cutting of timber is prohibited
• Fishing is catch and release only.
• No sales, solicitations, or placement of any signs within the park without prior permission.
• Disturbing habitat of animals is prohibited.
• Structures, plants and natural features may not be removed, damaged, or defaced.
• A person may not camp or lodge without prior permission from the Manchester Parks Foundation.
• Loitering in vehicles is prohibited.