Day Camps at MFFC
At Merck Forest & Farmland Center, we believe children thrive when given the freedom to immerse themselves in nature through exploration and guided discovery.
Fostering Deep Connections Through Outdoor Discovery
Our day camps offer an extraordinary opportunity for young people to develop a deep connection with the natural landscapes, sustainable farming practices, and forest ecology that make our center unique.
By slowing down and using their senses to fully experience the world around them, campers develop a sense of curiosity, love, and responsibility for the outdoors. Through this experience, they emerge with deeper empathy, a better understanding of their place in the world, and the knowledge that they can make a difference.
2025 Camps
Explore our 2025 camp offerings where adventurers can discover the wonders of forest, field, and farm through age-appropriate programs that foster curiosity, build confidence, and create lasting connections to the natural world.
Still have questions that you need answered before registering? Email learn@merckforest.org or call 802-394-7836.
Questions? We have answers!
Browse our frequently asked questions covering everything from registration policies and cancellations to daily activities and required forms.
Still have questions? Email learn@merckforest.org or call 802-394-7836. We’re here to help!
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The FarmThis is a short 5-minute walk that is nice for families with small children. At the farm you can visit our animals and see our sap house, have a picnic (picnic tables located across from the sap house), and take in the great views. You can always continue along Old Town Road or Stone Lot Road if you decide you want a longer hike. Rated: Easy hike/walk
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Stone LotThis hike is just under 2 miles. It is a good hike for families. This is a moderate out-and-back hike with great view of Dorset Peak just beyond the farm. Take Old Town Road to Stone Lot Road near the farm buildings. Be sure to visit the American Chestnut Tree project. Rated: Moderate hike
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Birch PondThis hike is 3 miles (approx. 2 hours). This is a mild-to-moderate hike with the toughest section being the up-hill on Old Town Road. Rated: Mild/Moderate Hike
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Silviculture TrailThis hike is a little over 4 miles. The Silviculture Trail is a 2.3-mile self-guided educational trail. It provides a look at forest management. Deer and other wildlife are often spotted here. Take Old Town Road to Silviculture Trail back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate hike
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The GallopThis hike is 3 miles or 4 miles depending on the route (approx. 2-3 hours). Take Old Town Road and turn left onto Gallop Road. After a steady climb, you can go right to Lodge Road and follow it to Old Town Road back to the VC. To visit the scenic overlook, stay on Gallop Road until the intersection with Barton Road. The end of the trail is a steep descent to Lodge road. Follow Lodge Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/difficult hike
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McCormick TrailThis trail can be made into a 4-mile loop (approx. 1.5 hours). Take Old Town Road to McCormick Trail to Antone Road back to Old Town Road. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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Mount AntoneThis hike is 5 miles (approx. 4 hours). Take Old Town Road to Antone Road (you can take the “Ski Trail” or stay on Antone Road). There are great views from the top looking back at our farm. Rated: Moderate/Difficult hike
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LookoutThis hike is a 6 mile loop (approx. 4+ hours). A work out! You will travel through a beautiful secluded section of the forest. Take Old Town Road to Antone Road to Lookout Road. Rating: Difficult (due to length)
"It was such a delight to see our granddaughter fall in love with being outside and nature, thanks to her immersive week at summer camp at Merck Forest. A city girl was transformed during the course of her time spent exploring the outdoors and being encouraged to be curious. Thank you, Merck Forest!"