LEONARDTOWN, Md. – The St. Clement’s Island Museum and Piney Point Lighthouse Museum in St. Mary’s County are launching a series of nature-based educational activities for all ages on the second Saturday of each month in 2025. Starting May 10, these hands-on, play-focused experiences, inspired by Scandinavian “Forest School” learning, invite visitors to engage with the outdoors through curiosity-driven exploration at no additional cost beyond regular museum admission.
The activities, designed to foster a connection with nature through tactile and open-ended play, cater to both children and adults. Held at the St. Clement’s Island Museum in Colton’s Point and the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum in Piney Point, the series encourages participants to discover the environment in relaxing, creative ways. “Age is not a factor; adults need to connect with nature in relaxing, simple ways, just as much as children do,” said Olivia Flack, a museum representative. Registration is encouraged to ensure sufficient materials, but walk-ins are welcome. Activities proceed rain or shine, barring severe weather like lightning or heavy winds.
At St. Clement’s Island Museum, located at 38370 Point Breeze Road, the schedule includes: Mother’s Day by the Sea on May 10 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., featuring an island boat ride and historic nature walk; Potomac Pallette on August 9 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where participants paint scenery using Potomac River water; and Batty for Bats on October 11 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., involving building and decorating bat boxes while learning about these mammals’ ecological role.
The Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, at 44720 Lighthouse Road, will host: Seaside Shenanigans on July 12 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with games inspired by lighthouse keepers; Frame the Beach on September 13 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., where attendees craft beach-themed picture frames; and Deck the Halls on November 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a DIY ornament workshop.
No separate registration is required, but contacting the museums in advance is recommended to confirm attendance and check weather policies. For inquiries or to arrange group educational programs, contact Olivia Flack at Olivia.Flack@stmaryscountymd.gov. Additional details on hours, admission, and events are available on the museums’ Facebook pages: St. Clement’s Island Museum and Piney Point Lighthouse Museum.
The St. Clement’s Island Museum, situated on a historic island site, interprets the area’s colonial history and maritime heritage, while the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, home to Maryland’s oldest lighthouse, showcases 19th-century coastal life. Both museums, operated by St. Mary’s County, aim to enrich visitors’ understanding of local history and the environment through interactive programming. The Second Saturday series reflects their commitment to accessible, family-friendly education, blending nature, creativity, and play to engage the community year-round.
