Education at Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center

Jacobsburg is committed to providing a diverse array of environmental education programs. Programming is offered year round to schools, civic groups, and the community. A schedule of community programs is available at the center.

Educational programs are age-specific and generate learning through discovery and a hands-on approach. School programs can be arranged by calling the center office.

Environmental Education Program

Jacobsburg was dedicated as an environmental education center during October 1985, and is one of four environmental education centers operated by DCNR's Bureau of State Parks. Programming is offered year round to visiting school groups and citizens in the local community.

School students engage in hands-on activities, exploring and learning about the unique ecosystems of the park to further their awareness, appreciation, and knowledge of the natural environment.

Various workshops are available for teachers seeking professional development related to the natural environment. Workshops provide curriculum instruction and resources on the focus topic. They are based on state and national environmental education curricula, and Act 48 hours are available for most.

In addition to offering quality educational programs, the center serves as an outdoor laboratory for visiting biologists, college interns, and resource professionals involved in a variety of research projects.

Public programs provide opportunities for visitors to connect to the resources found at Jacobsburg through guided recreation and interactive programs. These programs focus on the natural, historical, and cultural features of the park and region.

The center also offers DCNR's DiscoverE program, which is a series of week-long summer day camps for children of various ages.

Heritage Education Program

The Jacobsburg Historical Society offers a wide range of exciting historical programs throughout the year. Programs include displays and demonstrations of early gun making at the Pennsylvania Longrifle Heritage Museum, located within the Henry Homestead.

Living history programs include mid-1840s rendezvous, period encampments, and historical crafts. Gun making and related classes are offered. Historic buildings are open for tours.