Spring into Summer
As the warm days of June roll in and the school year winds down, we reflect on the incredible energy that filled the Ashokan Center. We now switch gears and look forward to an exciting summer of day camps for kids, Music & Dance Camps for adults and families, and the annual Summer Hoot!
🌲 Looking Back: 2024-25 School Year
From September through May, our woods, streams, and historic buildings welcomed thousands of students from a diverse and enthusiastic lineup of schools from across the region and beyond.
These young explorers arrived curious and left empowered—through hands-on learning in nature, immersive history experiences, musical discoveries, and unforgettable moments of community. Guided by our highly skilled team of educators, these students stepped out of the classroom and into a deeper understanding of themselves, their connection to others and the world around them.
🍃 Why Ashokan?
Since 1967, the Ashokan Center has been a leader in outdoor and environmental education. Our 385-acre preserve offers a living classroom where students learn by doing—exploring science, history, music, and art in a holistic and engaging way. We agree with author Richard Louv that nature is the great equalizer, leveling the playing field for learners of all kinds.
Each Ashokan trip begins with team-building and ends with lifelong memories—just ask the thousands of students (and teachers) who visit Ashokan each year.
“Nature has its own sound that no one else can create. Nature helps us humans live our own lives.” – Daniel, student
“Nothing is the same—the trees, the rocks, the leaves and even the air is clean and fresh. Something I do not get at home.” – Tanya, student
🎶 Looking Ahead: Music Camps Begin June 21
As we say farewell to our final spring school groups, we’re already tuning up for our summer music & dance camps, which kick off with the Honky Tonk Jazz BBQ & Dance on Saturday, June 21, kicking off Western & Swing Week and a summer full of joy, rhythm, and community.
These immersive weekends and weeklong gatherings bring together musicians of all levels to share meals, songs, and stories under the stars.
🚌 Book Your 2025-26 School Trip Now
Now is the perfect time for educators to inquire about next year’s trips. We offer day and overnight experiences filled with hands-on learning, connection, and fun.
💡 Discounts available for new schools and winter bookings
💚 Need-based financial aid available
📞 Contact our education team at education@ashokancenter.org or 845-657-8333 x14
“As someone who works with children I can honestly say that programs like this are rare gems. If I had a say in it, I’d make it mandatory for all schools to incorporate this experience into their curriculum.” – Sheryl Brumer, educator
We are grateful to every student, teacher, and chaperone who walked the trails with us this year—and we can’t wait to welcome our next wave of learners, musicians, and explorers.
Ashokan Center
Inspiring lifelong learning through nature, history, music, and art.
ashokancenter.org