Crashing surf, granite ledges, and coastal forests rich with biodiversity create an outdoor classroom that fosters new learning and inspiration. The Acadia Field School is a unique partnership between Acadia National Park and College of the Atlantic that invites you to rediscover nature through the lens of science, art, and the power of place.

Choose from one of three unique program offerings, described below. Rates include full meals and activities described for the weekend program of your choice. Lodging is also available — select the residential option when you register. All programs will be held at the Schoodic Education and Research Center (SERC) on Maine's beautiful Schoodic Peninsula. Programs are primarily intended for an adult audience though accompanied youth are welcome — see below for details.

Coastal Migration and Birding Basics — CANCELLED

Join park naturalists and researchers for an engaging bird investigation weekend at Acadia National Park’s research learning center. From the vantage of the dramatic Schoodic Peninsula’s rugged coastline, learn about birding basics from professional ornithologists and current research. The weekend will include bird walks, participation in spring migration observation and data collection, nature journaling, and guest speakers. Program is suitable for adults and youth aged 16 and up. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Island’s Edge: Coastal Exploration — June 15–17

Join park naturalists and researchers to explore the amazing interface of plants, animals, and shoreline geology at Acadia National Park’s Schoodic Peninsula. The ever-changing coastal environment features unique habitats and amazing biodiversity. This weekend will include intertidal ecology, tidepool investigations, current research in Acadia, seawatch coastal migration observations, shoreline ecology hikes, GPS photo journaling workshop, coastal geology, and salt water touch tank activities. This program is suitable for adults and youth aged 10 and up. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Register by April 25.

Fall Focus on Acadia — October 5–7

Come capture the kaleidoscope of colors in Acadia National Park this fall. Join park naturalist and Acadia’s photographer-in-residence for a photography workshop. Learn techniques for shooting landscape images in Maine’s coastal light, basics of image composition, and more about your camera’s hidden capability. This program is suitable for adults and youth aged 16 and up. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Getting to Schoodic

The Schoodic Education and Research Center is located on the Schoodic Peninsula, a little over an hour from Bar Harbor by car.

Download Directions to SERC (PDF)

Learn more about SERC on the SERC Institute website, or download our Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)

SERC Campus Map

For more information

For program inquiries or to learn more about Acadia Field School activities, please contact Kate Petrie, Park Ranger – Schoodic District of Acadia National Park, Kate_Petrie@nps.gov, (207) 288-1312