Scouts of all ages are invited to explore 34 acres of peaceful woodlands, meadows and trails at the CVH Animal Sanctuary…an outdoor classroom designed to spark curiosity and inspire a deep respect for the natural world. Our hands-on programs immerse scouts in nature, conservation, and the value of empathy toward all living things, offering meaningful experiences that support badge work, rank advancement, community service, and personal growth.
Cub Scout Programs
Lions & Tigers
- Mountain Lion
- Champions for Nature Lion
- Tigers in the Wild
- Sky is the Limit (Special evening program)
- Champion for Nature Tiger – 4
Wolves & Bears
- Paws on the Path
- Finding Your Way
- Champion for Nature Wolf
- Bear Habitat
- Critter Care
- Champions for Nature Bear
Webelos
- Webelos Walkabout
- Earth Rocks!
- Math on the Trail
- Tech on the Trail
- Into the Wild
- Into the Woods
- Champions for Nature
Girl Scout Programs
Daisies
- Animal Observer
- Outdoor Art Maker
- Eco Learner
- Daisy Trail Adventure
Brownies
- Pets
- Letterboxer
- Outdoor Art Creator
- Eco Friend
- Bugs
- Outdoor Adventurer
- Hiker
- Senses
- Brownie Trail Adventure
Juniors
- Animal Habitats
- Geocacher
- Outdoor Art Explorer
- Flowers
- Gardener
- Junior Trail Adventure
How to Register
Scout programs are available weekday afternoons and Saturdays. Program fee is $150 and covers up to 25 participants.
To book your date and time for your program, please contact Ken Elkins, Director of Education & Partnerships, kelkins@cvhfoundation.org or (866) 620-8640 x704. Once a date and time have been set, you will be sent an invoice confirming your registration and balance due. If you’d like to pay when you arrive to the sanctuary, we accept check, or credit card.
Refunds & Rescheduling: If your scout troop must cancel due to inclement weather, every effort will be made to reschedule on another date without additional charge.
Additional Information: These are OUTDOOR PROGRAMS. Please make sure that scouts dress appropriately for the existing weather conditions. Remember, it may be colder or wetter at the sanctuary than at your house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What scout programs does the sanctuary offer?
We offer hands-on, interactive, and customizable programs for cub scout and girl scout troops. We have several prepared badge programs in place, or we can work with you on your own custom badge program, Take Action Project, or Journey!
Q: Can these presentations be tailored to our group’s interests?
Yes! Our team has experience in everything from birding to paleontology! Even if we don’t have the badge or project you’re looking on our website, shoot us an email and we’ll work with you to create the perfect program.
Q: Are these programs suitable for people with limited mobility or visual impairments?
Definitely. All our programs can be adapted to take place on our flat, grassy meadow, or inside the ADA accessible classroom at Catherine’s Learning Barn.
Q: How long is each presentation?
Depending on the program you’re looking for, it can be between 60 to 90 minutes.
Q: How much does a program cost?
The fee is $150 per program, which includes custom programming for up to 25 scouts.
Q: Can you come to us?
Currently, we’re only offering on-site scout programs at our 34-acre sanctuary property here in Newtown, CT.
Q: How do we book a program?
Contact Ken Elkins, Director of Education & Partnerships, at kelkins@cvhfoundation.org.
Q: How far in advance should we schedule?
We recommend booking 4 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date—especially during spring and fall, our most popular seasons.
To book your program or ask a question, contact:
Please call Ken Elkins at (866) 620-8640 x704 or email at kelkins@cvhfoundation.org. Once a date and time have been set, you will be sent an invoice confirming your registration and balance due.