Community event · Free
Free Family Forest School Open House
Curious about forest school? Our free open houses are the easiest way to try it. Bring the kids, hike into the woods with us and spend the morning playing, building and exploring.
What to expect
Open houses are about three hours of real forest school at Pouch Camp in the Staten Island Greenbelt. Children ages 2–12 explore with their grown-ups, try a simple nature skill or craft, and play freely in the woods while our volunteers answer your questions about programs, pricing and scholarships.
Next dates
New open house dates are announced each season on Instagram and Facebook, and emailed to families with a portal account. Our most recent open houses were held on Thursday, August 13 and Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 10 AM to 1 PM. Registration is required, so we know how many families to expect.
Getting there
Meet at the Boy Scout Shop parking lot at William H. Pouch Scout Camp, 1465 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 10314. From there it is a 5-minute hike on a gravel trail with some hills. Heavy-duty strollers or wagons work best.
What to bring
- Closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get messy
- Bug spray
- Water and snacks for about three hours