Natural Lands

Best-Laid Plans: A Murder Mystery - SOLD OUT
2026-02-21 16:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
This event is sold out. Please join us at a future event.
Join us in the cozy magnificence of Stoneleigh’s Main House for an evening of mystery and intrigue featuring the Murder Mystery Co. of Philadelphia.
In this immersive, quintessential whodunit experience, you’ll be part of the thrills. Dress in your best evening wear, bribe suspects for clues, and gather information to uncover who is whacking all the invitees. But keep your guard up, because you never know who might be next.
Doors open at 4:30 PM for light bites, beer, and wine. This is also the perfect opportunity to begin gathering intel and mingling with the other guests. The performance begins at 5:30 PM.

Volunteer - Give Back to Nature - CANCELLED
2026-02-22 09:00 - 11:30 | ChesLen Preserve, 1199 Cannery Road, Coatesville, Pennsylvania, 19320
This event is cancelled. Please join us for a future event.
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in nurturing nature. Good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction with their guardians.

Volunteer - Winter Gardening
2026-02-26 09:30 - 11:30 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
Did you know more than 100,000 plants thrive at Stoneleigh: a natural garden? Grab gloves and join staff and fellow volunteers for seasonal garden projects.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with like-minded people.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event, and pre-registration is required. If you sign-up, please show-up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Children age 12-14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Sound Meditation
2026-02-27 19:00 - 20:00 | Crow’s Nest Preserve, 201 Piersol Road, Elverson, Pennsylvania, 19520
Join our partners Soul Bloom for an evening of supreme relaxation in the restored bank barn at Crow’s Nest Preserve.
Enjoy a full sound bath and yoga nidra meditation to harmonize your body, mind, and spirit.
Please bring pillows and blankets.
Learn more about Soul Bloom.

register now

Volunteer - Care for Nature - FULL
2026-02-28 09:00 - 11:30 | Binky Lee Preserve, 1445 Pikeland Road, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, 19425
This event is full. Please join us at a future event.
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in nurturing nature. Good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction with their guardian.

Volunteer - Care for Nature
2026-02-28 09:00 - 11:30 | Gwynedd Preserve, 640 Swedesford Road, North Wales, Pennsylvania, 19454
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in nurturing nature. Good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction with their guardian.

CANCELLED - Mantis Meadow Scavenger Hunt
2026-02-28 10:00 - 11:30 | Green Hills Preserve, 553 Gunhart Road, Mohnton, Pennsylvania, 19540
This event has been cancelled due to preserve conditions. Please join us at our next Mantis Meadow Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, March 7 at Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary.
Not all mantises are welcome…
Many people are surprised to learn that the praying mantises they spot in their gardens might not be native—and that some invasive species can pose serious threats to local wildlife, even preying on hummingbirds.
Join us for a fun, hands-on scavenger hunt in the meadow to search for and remove invasive mantis egg cases (ootheca), which are distinct from those of native mantises. Along the way, you’ll learn how to tell the difference between species and help protect the balance of our local ecosystems.
All collected egg cases will be donated to our partners at Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research, where they’ll help feed recovering baby birds this spring and summer—turning an invasive problem into a nurturing solution.
Help native wildlife and support bird rehab with your efforts.

Guided Winter Walk
2026-02-28 10:30 - 12:00 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
Enjoy the unique beauty of Stoneleigh during the winter season. Now that the leaves have fallen, we can delight in the structure and delicate details that are revealed. Join Stoneleigh staff on a walk through the winter garden to discover the beautiful bark, brilliant berries, and stunning seeds that bring life to the chilly days of winter.

Trek-a-Thon
2026-03-02 08:00
celebrate America’s 250 years with 250 miles.
Join Natural Lands in 2026 to celebrate the USA’s 250th birthday by walking, trekking, or hiking 250 miles at any of Natural Lands’ nature preserves or at our public garden Wildflower-filled meadows, shady forests, boulder-strewn stream valleys, wetlands teeming with life, vibrant native plant gardens, and coastal marshland habitat… our 23,000+ acres span 2 states and 13 counties – plenty of space to log your miles.
From January 1 through December 31, 2026, we’re inviting you to walk, stroll, hike, or run 250 miles at our properties to commemorate our country’s 250 years.
Whether you’re hitting the trails alone, with friends, or your four-legged, furry friend, (remember to leash) every step counts. Natural Lands is committed to creating opportunities for joy, discovery, belonging, and connection in the outdoors for everyone.
Register for free below.

Volunteer - Spring Gardening
2026-03-03 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-03-05 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-03-10 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-03-12 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-03-17 08:30 - 11:30, 2026-03-19 08:30 - 11:30 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085

Lunar Eclipse Blood Moon Wander - CANCELLED
2026-03-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Bryn Coed Preserve, Flint Road, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, 19425
This event is cancelled due to weather conditions. Please join us for a future event.
Join us for an evening wander beneath the energy of the Blood Moon. While the eclipse itself won’t yet be visible, we’ll gather to slow down, tune in, and soak up the lunar atmosphere through quiet reflection, gentle movement, and shared presence in nature.
This is an invitation to connect—with the land, the moment, and the subtle magic of the moon’s cycle. Come as you are. Curiosity and wonder encouraged.

Hidden Language of Trees: Winter ID - SOLD OUT
2026-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Saunders Woods Preserve, 1020 Waverly Road, Gladwyne, PA, 19035
This event is sold out. Please join us at a future event.
Even without their leafy crowns, trees have stories to tell—through textured bark, delicate buds, and lingering berries. On this guided winter walk, Preserve Manager Luke Hamilton will teach you how to identify trees using the subtle clues they offer during the dormant season.
Enjoy a slow-paced, sensory-rich hike through the quiet beauty of Saunders Woods Preserve. Whether you’re a budding naturalist or just curious about the forest in winter, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for trees and the ecosystems they support.
Dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and come ready to look a little closer.

Friday Organ Concert
2026-03-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
The Organ Historical Society (OHS) and Natural Lands present Friday Organ Concerts in the Main House at Stoneleigh. Join us for noontime concerts this spring featuring Stoneleigh’s mighty Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ. Local organists will perform a selection of sweeping musical pieces surrounded by the elegant beauty of the Tudor-revival style home. Come for the music and stay for the beauty of the garden sure to be in bloom in all its springtime glory.
About the organist:
Kevin J. O’Malia holds Bachelor’s (summa cum laude) and master’s degrees (with distinction) from Westminster Choir College of Rider University. His concentrations of study were in organ, choral conducting, and church music history. Mr. O’Malia is the Director of Music and Organist at All Saints’ Church in Princeton. Kevin also serves as an organist at Temple B’nai Shalom in East Brunswick, NJ. Mr. O’Malia is extremely active as an instructor, as an adjunct professor at several colleges, and as a frequent clinician for the American Guild of Organists and the Association of Anglican Musicians.
Kevin has performed in the United States, the United Kingdom, France and South Africa. Many of his performances have been featured on radio broadcasts including National Public Radio production Pipedreams, and on Radio South Africa, Classic FM, and its program ‘People of Note.’ Distinguished performances have featured cathedral residencies at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, Lincoln Cathedral, Christ Church, Oxford; recitals and appearances at Notre-Dame in Paris, St. Thomas Church, Fifth Avenue, New York, Washington National Cathedral, Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, the White House, Princeton University Chapel, and at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia.
This past year, Kevin played and conducted a residency at Exeter Cathedral in the UK.

Schedule of organists:

March 6: Kevin O’Malia

April 10: Vincent Ryan

May 1: Margaret Harper

June 12: W. Edward McCall

Volunteer - Nurture Nature FULL
2026-03-07 09:00 - 11:30 | Stroud Preserve, 454 North Creek Road, West Chester, Pennsylvania, 19382
This event is full. Please connect with us in a future event.
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in removing invasives, nurturing native plants, or restoring habitat. Projects vary, but good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors age 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction as their guardian.

Mantis Meadow Scavenger Hunt
2026-03-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary, 240 Sunnyside Road, Easton, Pennsylvania, 18042
Not all mantises are welcome…
Many people are surprised to learn that the praying mantises they spot in their gardens might not be native—and that some invasive species can pose serious threats to local wildlife, even preying on hummingbirds.
Join us for a fun, hands-on scavenger hunt in the meadow to search for and remove invasive mantis egg cases (ootheca), which are distinct from those of native mantises. Along the way, you’ll learn how to tell the difference between species and help protect the balance of our local ecosystems.
All collected egg cases will be donated to our partners at Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research, where they’ll help feed recovering baby birds this spring and summer—turning an invasive problem into a nurturing solution.
Help native wildlife and support bird rehab with your efforts.

Natural Light Still Life Photography Workshop
2026-03-07 12:00 - 15:00 | Crow’s Nest Preserve, 201 Piersol Road, Elverson, Pennsylvania, 19520
Still life is a genre of photography that can be done no matter the weather. It allows the photographer to have control over the light, the subject, and the story being told.
Join photographer Ginnie Lodge for an intimate, hands-on workshop exploring the art of still life photography using natural light. Working in the cozy, heated lower level of the Crow’s Nest barn—transformed into a studio for the day—you’ll learn how to arrange, light, and capture striking still life compositions using objects gathered from the preserve.
Ginnie will demonstrate her process using both a mirrorless camera and simple techniques, showing how to achieve rich, Old Masters-style images through focal point control, photo stacking, and thoughtful editing. While participants are encouraged to bring an SLR or mirrorless camera and tripod, the workshop is accessible to those using only a smartphone.
With limited space, each participant will receive individual guidance as they create their own still life photographs. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your creative approach, this inspiring three-hour session offers a unique chance to develop your skills and experiment with natural light photography.
Please note: The inclement weather date is Saturday, March 14.
About the instructor: Ginnie Lodge is a local multi-genre photographer who delights in experimenting and creating with her camera… out in nature, or on her kitchen counter. With a lifelong career as a teacher, she enjoys bringing out the best in others with whom she explores the craft of photography. You can see some of her work at www.ginnielodge.com.

Movie Night in the Barn
2026-03-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Crow’s Nest Preserve, 201 Piersol Road, Elverson, Pennsylvania, 19520
Join us for a Movie Night in the Barn at Crow’s Nest Preserve featuring The Little Things That Run the World, an inspiring documentary exploring the essential role flying insects play in healthy ecosystems.
Making up nearly three-quarters of all species on Earth, insects are often called the “glue of life” for the vital roles they play in holding ecosystems together.
The film traces their remarkable 440-million-year history—from becoming the first animals to evolve flight to surviving every known mass extinction—while examining the unprecedented pace of their current decline.
Through the work of scientists, farmers, and nature advocates, the film highlights hopeful, community-driven efforts to protect these vital species and the future of life on Earth, including our own.
Sponsored by the Cassandra O. and Dennis B. Lacey Performance Series

Volunteer - Care for Nature - FULL
2026-03-08 09:00 - 11:30 | Binky Lee Preserve, 1445 Pikeland Road, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, 19425
This event is full. Please join us for a future event.
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in nurturing nature. Good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction with their guardian.

Volunteer - Give Back to Nature - FULL
2026-03-08 09:00 - 11:30 | ChesLen Preserve, 1199 Cannery Road, Coatesville, Pennsylvania, 19320
This event is full. Please join us for a future event.
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Grab gloves and join fellow volunteers in nurturing nature. Good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event. If you sign-up, please show up. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult and registered in the same transaction with their guardians.

Beauty of Buds Walk
2026-03-13 10:30 - 12:00 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
Signs of spring are all around us, even in the winter. Flower and leaf buds are more than just ways for us to identify plants; they are delicate and beautiful wonders of the winter garden. Join Stoneleigh staff as we explore the vast and fascinating world of buds during this guided walk in the garden.

Volunteer - Nurture Nature
2026-03-14 09:00 - 11:30 | Bryn Coed Preserve, Flint Road, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, 19425
Love nature and want to lend her a helping hand? Join fellow volunteers in removing invasives, nurturing native plants, or restoring habitat. Projects vary, but good fun (and dirt) is guaranteed! Natural Lands cares for more than 23,000 acres and 120 miles of trails, and we couldn’t do it without volunteers like you.
Volunteering with Natural Lands is a great way to learn more about the natural world, give your time to a great cause, and connect with enthusiastic, like-minded people.
The health and safety of staff and volunteers is our highest priority during this volunteer event. Please review “before you go” details.
Capacity is limited for this small-group event, and pre-registration is required. If you sign-up, please plan to participate. If you need to cancel, please let us know so another volunteer can attend. All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Minors under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult parent/guardian. Adult(s) and the Minor(s) for whom they are responsible, should register in the same transaction.

Outdoors Online: Outstanding Owls of PA
2026-03-16 18:30 - 19:30 | https://wp.natlands.org/event/online-owls-2026-0316/
Take a closer look at the mysterious owls who call Pennsylvania home. This webinar explores the habits, calls, and habitats of these stealthy nighttime hunters—from the common Eastern Screech-owl to the majestic Great Horned Owl.
Join our partner, Julie Travaglini with Allegheny Land Trust, to learn how to spot these sometimes-elusive birds, understand their role in local ecosystems, and appreciate their silent beauty. Perfect for nature lovers, birders, and curious minds of all ages.
Grab a refreshment, get cozy, charge your laptop (or smartphone), and join the program via Zoom.
About our instructor: Julie is the Senior Director of Education and Curriculum for Allegheny Land Trust. In her role, she creates hands-on STEM and place-based lessons for children and adults alike as well as providing state-accredited professional development for educators.

SOLD OUT Open House Showcase: Through the Wild Lens Photo Exhibit
2026-03-18 16:00 - 19:00 | Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary, 240 Sunnyside Road, Easton, Pennsylvania, 18042
Event is sold out. Please enjoy the photos at Art Along the Trails through May 30th.
Join Natural Lands for a special Open House Showcase honoring the breathtaking perspectives captured during our inaugural Through the Wild Lens photo contest. This community celebration brings together photographers, nature lovers, and friends of Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary for an inspiring look at the beauty, biodiversity, and quiet magic found throughout the preserve.
During this open house, guests are invited to explore a curated, special outdoor gallery of selected submissions—images that highlight everything from intimate macro details to sweeping landscapes and extraordinary wildlife encounters. Each photograph tells a story of connection, curiosity, and the natural wonders that make Mariton such a beloved place.
The evening will also feature the announcement and recognition of the overall favorite photograph, which will be framed and displayed at the Mariton Nature Center for a limited time. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet participating photographers, learn more about the sanctuary’s unique habitats, and celebrate the creativity and passion of our community.
Whether you contributed a photo or simply appreciate the art of seeing nature through someone else’s lens, this event offers a meaningful way to connect, reflect, and enjoy Mariton at its most inspiring.
We look forward to celebrating with you—come experience the wild beauty of Mariton through the eyes of those who cherish it.
Note: Please plan to spend time both inside the Nature Center with light refreshments, and outdoors viewing our gallery, ‘Art Along the Trails’ style.

Early Spring Pruning Workshop
2026-03-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
Are you puzzled by pruning? Confounded by coppicing? Perplexed by pollarding? Join Stoneleigh staff for a workshop in the garden to demystify early spring pruning.
With the expert guidance of a horticulturist, you’ll learn winter pruning basics for small trees and shrubs, as well as specialized pruning techniques used at Stoneleigh like pollarding and coppicing. Part lecture, part demonstration, this workshop will help you build confidence in your pruning skills and offer an opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion about pruning in your own garden.
This workshop will begin with an indoor lecture then move outdoors for pruning demonstrations by a Stoneleigh horticulturist. Dress for the weather and bring a notebook and writing utensil.

PlayIn Time Music Circle
2026-03-20 10:15 - 11:00 | Stoneleigh: a natural garden, 1829 County Line Road, Villanova, Pennsylvania, 19085
Join our partners at PlayIn Time Productions for a weekly, interactive musical program geared toward children up to age five and their parents or caregivers. Instructor Miss Virginia will guide you and your child through warming up their bodies with movement, practicing listening skills using activities like freeze dances, and jamming to classic and new tunes. PlayIn Time’s Music Circles build musical connection and community through shared fun. Get ready to dance, jam, and learn.
Things to know:

Classes will run on Friday mornings from 10:15am – 11:00am.

Join for the whole series or just for one or two sessions. Registration is available on PlayIn Time’s website, linked below.

If you have them, you are welcome to bring your own shakers, sticks, or other percussive instruments.

Classes will be held outside on the Great Lawn so bring a blanket or lawn pad to sit on.

Please note that, while the program is geared toward younger ages, siblings ages 6 and older are welcome and can attend free of charge.

register now
