4.7 (61 reviews)
BEan In Nature earth educators support, guide and lead children to connect with wonder and amazement to nature, growing their innate curiosity and passions…
My daughter loves this camp and wants to come back next year.
BEan IN NATURE
July 17, 2025
We are so grateful!
0 responses
This is our kids’ favorite camp. They completely love it and we appreciate the time that they get to spend outdoors and the practical lessons they are taught.
BEan IN NATURE
July 17, 2025
Jeff, Thank you for taking time to send us a review! We appreciate families who share their appreciation and happy feedback so that other families may feel confident and excited to register in our nature immersion summer program! :)
We have been part of Bean in Nature for years now as all of my kids have loved it. My son started when he was 6 and it has helped foster a love for the outdoors and helped him cultivate a many new social, life, and survival skills. My kids have all done the homeschool programs, summer camps, as well as the family camps and we have all benefited heavily. The family camps have been the most fun for me particularly. I found there was always great guidance, communication, and support in all of their programs and would highly recommend to anyone wanting their kids to reconnect with nature with safe, creative and uplifting teachers.
BEan IN NATURE
June 22, 2025
Hi Najet! BEan enjoys your family so much! Thank you for sharing with us how much you enjoy us! We look forward to seeing your family again soon!
May 3, 2025
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Yana Ryan
Verified Purchase
Our favorite nature-based Summer camp and our 4th year back! Looking forward to another fun Summer! Go Ms. Marisa and Team.
BEan IN NATURE
June 22, 2025
Hi Yana! Thank you for returning with your amazing wild young person A:)! We are so grateful to have her with us again this summer!
We love BEan in nature! I’m so glad I found this amazing group - they taught my son so much in just one summer. He would come home with so much experience and knowledge around local plants and bugs. They made a big spray, taught them knitting and so many games. It was truly a wonderful experience and we can’t wait to go back this summer!
BEan IN NATURE
June 22, 2025
Thank you Janani! We are so grateful for families that support our program, share our program and help others hear about our program by sharing!
April 23, 2025
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Juliane Goujon
Verified Purchase
My daughter is so excited about this summer camp every year. I love how everything is about nature and play. The counselors are enthusiastic, patient, and creating a safe and joyful environment. What stands out most is how the camp encourages curiosity and independence. We’re already counting down the days to the next camp!
BEan IN NATURE
June 22, 2025
Hi Juliane! We are so grateful your Fledgling has returned to us again this year! We look forward to sharing summer camp with her and more to come ! Thank you for giving us a shout out so others can hear!
Marisa and her team do a wonderful job in their nature programs with the kids. My kids have attended both a weekly homeschool group as well as teen weekend campouts. The kids are always excited to go and come home happy, and love to talk about all the stuff they have learned. Marisa is such a great educator and she puts a lot of thought on the program and also on making sure everyone feels welcomed and safe - I have been impressed by the way she has handled some challenging situations (with respect, firmness and support all at the same time).
BEan IN NATURE
June 22, 2025
Hi Roberta,
Thank you so much for enrolling your two amazing young naturalists! Their enthusiasm for the outdoors and their willingness to try and learn wilderness skills are truly inspiring. We are incredibly grateful that you're considering returning to us again this year.
Your thoughtful testimonial means a great deal to us. By sharing your reflections, you're helping others understand the value of our nature-led, immersive program—and reminding us of the meaningful connections we build together.
We deeply value every one of our students and families who join us on this journey. Together, we grow, learn, connect, and immerse ourselves in nature as a strong and supportive community.
Thank you again!
Warmly, Marisa Director, Teacher, Mom and Grandmother
Thank you so much for enrolling your two amazing young naturalists! Their enthusiasm for the outdoors and their willingness to try and learn wilderness skills are truly inspiring. We are incredibly grateful that you're considering returning to us again this year.
Your thoughtful testimonial means a great deal to us. By sharing your reflections, you're helping others understand the value of our nature-led, immersive program—and reminding us of the meaningful connections we build together.
We deeply value every one of our students and families who join us on this journey. Together, we grow, learn, connect, and immerse ourselves in nature as a strong and supportive community.
Thank you again!
Warmly, Marisa Director, Teacher, Mom and Grandmother
Marisa and her team provide a great nature camp for children. The location in the shady park is excellent, no overheating or sunburn. My children enjoyed these camps two years in a row and came home with lots of memories. I believe their favorite things were archery (when offered) and hunting for crabs in the creek.
BEan IN NATURE
March 10, 2025
THANK YOU Andrea for continuing to bring your Teen and Preteen to our program!
What an incredible leadership program and camp. It offered my daughter a multitude of learning experiences. She not only deepened her understanding of nature but also honed her skills in interacting with her peers and fellow campers. Furthermore, she learned the significance of teamwork and how to support others effectively. Marissa has been an outstanding teacher and mentor, and Payton is eagerly looking forward to future summers.
BEan IN NATURE
September 19, 2024
Dearest DeeDee ! We are so grateful for your daughter's engagement in our Teen Leadership program this last summer! She was amazing, helpful, kind, energetic and on the job all the time, her smile and connection to the campers was so helpful to our Nature Educators in our survival camps this summer! We are SO HOPEFUL THAT WE WILL SEE HER NEXT SUMMER, TO JUMP IN FOR SOME MORE TEEN LEADERSHIP:)
Our kids really enjoy BEan IN Nature. It's a great opportunity to learn about nature and also to just take the time to enjoy the outdoors. Strongly recommend!
BEan IN NATURE
September 19, 2024
THANK YOU ANNA! Your son was an amazing support for his first time as a Teen Leader this summer. We were so encouraged by his enthusiasm and willingness to jump in wherever we needed his Teen Leader help with our campers! We look forward for more adventures with your son this year in our TNT 1x a month Teen Leadership and Teen camp program! YAY!
July 24, 2024
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Katherine D.
Verified Purchase
Each year my kids ask to come back to Bean In Nature. The staff is caring and attentive. They have the know how to engage kids in varied activities and connect with nature. Thank you !
Great camp! My daughter loved it and will do it again next year 😁
November 14, 2023
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Vinayak Vikram
My experience at the program has been amazing, especially in how Marisa and the other educators respected my concerns and needs. The skills I learned have been very useful, especially pertaining to socialization as I am homeschooled with almost no physical contact. Regarding nature and wildlife education, the way that BEan approaches it is encouraging and respectful, especially when there is a boundary I define for myself. All in all, my experience at the program has been amazing, and I thank Marisa and the other educators for the safe space they provide for me to grow.
- Vinayak
- Vinayak
BEan IN NATURE
December 6, 2023
Hello Vinayak! Thank you so very much for your generous and gracious feedback and gratitude about my program! It has been a pleasure having you in our Tween Wed Wilderness program and now TNT 1x amonth Tw/Teen program and watching you grow, mature and share your humor! I look forward to our Spring Semester!
Great! Always a fun week in the woods. The kids had a blast.
BEan IN NATURE
December 6, 2023
Thank you Katie! Your kiddos are amazing and we look forward to having them with us again in our 2024 summer program!
July 1, 2023
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Yinxuan Guo
Verified Purchase
Loved the camp! My kiddos attended for the past 3 weeks and had so much fun every day. They were bummed when camp ended and are already asking if they could go back next year. I was looking for a camp where my kids could spend lots of time outdoors and learn practical skills - this camp had it all. The staff were also friendly and loving. Recommending to all my friends!
BEan IN NATURE
July 15, 2023
Thank you so very much for your consideration and time to let us know the your campers had a great time with us this summer! We strive to connect with our contagious enthusiasm for outdoor skills and connections to nature! Thank you again for sharing! We look forward to your kiddos again next summer!
Highly recommend! This was my three kids first camp experience ever. They enjoyed every minute of the Fledgling Forest camp. Marisa, the director, is so great with children and showed the kids many interesting facts and fun nature-based activities. My 4-year-olds hiked, played in the creek and made nature crafts.
BEan IN NATURE
June 19, 2023
Thank you so much Tina, for your support in our small growing nature led program! We hope to see your 3 amazing Littles again soon!
March 2, 2023
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Robert J Bean
BEAN in Nature has the best Nature Outdoor educators in the Valley! Your kids experience will carry on for their lifetime, There experience in Fire by friction, knife skills, Crafting, Games, plant identification, Camping and Hiking, Songs and Story telling, Ancestral Survival Skills. Will help the next generation!
This was my daughter's (just turned 13) first time trying this overnight camp, and she loved every minute of it. She did not attend with any friends, and she said it was easy to make friends. She felt really supported staying away from home, and she said the food was fantastic. She learned a lot of great nature skills too. She also really liked the leaders. We would not hesitate to recommend this program to anyone that loves nature and learning new wilderness skills.
Bean In Nature
March 23, 2023
Hi Laura! Thank you so much for your kind testimonial and vote! We look forward to more weekends with your daughter!
Highly recommend! My 11 year old son has participated in Bean in Nature programs, both over the summer and during the school year and has really enjoyed them! Marisa and her staff are the best - they're all very kind, inclusive, and knowledgeable. The programs have been a well-balanced mix of skill-building, earth-appreciation, and fun.
Bean In Nature
March 23, 2023
Hi Hadas! Tank you so much! We have enjoyed having your son with us in the summer and seeing him at our other h.school based programs!
January 6, 2023
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Maria Sorokina
Verified Purchase
My sons. 11, 8 and 5 years old attended the BEan in Nature in the Foothills park on Fridays. We are really grateful that we found this program. My boys are coming back with so many stories about the plants, skills they learned, games they played. My boys love spending time with their coach who is always enthusiastic, energetic, willing to adapt to children's needs, questions. Thank you for having this program in a beautiful Foothills park. It is a blessing every Friday to spend in the woods.
Bean In Nature
January 13, 2023
Hello Maria, we are so grateful for your testimonial and seeing the work we do as important and worthy. It is families like you who support our work with their students and help us continue the important work of Nature-led immersion and awareness, in a time of great need for eco literacy and earth awareness. We have enjoyed your students and look forward to a great Spring semester! Thank you for your time!
August 3, 2022
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D Capron
Verified Purchase
BEan in Nature was a horrific camp:
1. That allowed bullying,
2. Has lazy irresponsible counselors who put children as young as 5 in the parking lot to wait because at 9am the counselors were not set-up nor was there any drop-off/ pick-up protocol in place like the other 90% of camps have. NOTE: cars were coming & going since many bicyclists park there.
3. The counselors acted like they owned the public park & would not allow children to wait at the public tables which BEan in Nature must leave open and available to the public at ALL times per County Park Rules.
4. The counselors even napped while working & told kids to leave them alone since they were hungover.
My 11 year old attended this camp last year in Cupertino.
1. That allowed bullying,
2. Has lazy irresponsible counselors who put children as young as 5 in the parking lot to wait because at 9am the counselors were not set-up nor was there any drop-off/ pick-up protocol in place like the other 90% of camps have. NOTE: cars were coming & going since many bicyclists park there.
3. The counselors acted like they owned the public park & would not allow children to wait at the public tables which BEan in Nature must leave open and available to the public at ALL times per County Park Rules.
4. The counselors even napped while working & told kids to leave them alone since they were hungover.
My 11 year old attended this camp last year in Cupertino.
Bean In Nature
January 14, 2023
Our program values honest communication and this is our code we use each program day to mediate problems, as they occur, favoring communication with our parents and where I as the Director will always make it my highest priority to talk with parents and discuss any problems if they arise. I always welcome parents to talk with me and make myself available so that they can find me or contact me if needed.
All program participants: the Director, Staff, Volunteers, Interns, Helpers, Students, and Parents commit to supporting each other, through our To Be Commitment contract, which is through positive, cooperative, healthy exchanges and interactions, which help enhance our growth; providing support, care, overall social emotional-safety, growth and development for the children during class time, and support the overall relationships within ‘our community, during all times.
We are truly sorry, that in 2021, your experience of our program was so awful. Our job, as Nature-Led Earth Educators in BEan In Nature, is to provide, support, guide, role model, and create a very safe, healthy physical and social emotional invisible outdoor school, for the multi-aged students. The parking lot at the Cooley picnic area is a very small lot, it gets very busy in dropping and picking up times, and we have since changed our protocol and parking to the Canyon lot so that families have more ease to park and pick up. We are sorry that your pick up was not supportive and easeful.
Due to the unprecedented challenges as a small business, we are doing our very best to work through these times, and 2021 was a very challenging year to work through all the difficult challenges with patience and grace.
If, as you say our counselors napped and told the children to leave them alone, I would very much have wanted to hear this first hand, as this is not at all acceptable. We are a program dedicated to safe social emotional nature-led learning, we are a program dedicated to children connecting to our earth with phenomenal mentors I have personally vetted, we strive to always do our very best for our nature community families and our earth. Please accept our apologies.
All program participants: the Director, Staff, Volunteers, Interns, Helpers, Students, and Parents commit to supporting each other, through our To Be Commitment contract, which is through positive, cooperative, healthy exchanges and interactions, which help enhance our growth; providing support, care, overall social emotional-safety, growth and development for the children during class time, and support the overall relationships within ‘our community, during all times.
We are truly sorry, that in 2021, your experience of our program was so awful. Our job, as Nature-Led Earth Educators in BEan In Nature, is to provide, support, guide, role model, and create a very safe, healthy physical and social emotional invisible outdoor school, for the multi-aged students. The parking lot at the Cooley picnic area is a very small lot, it gets very busy in dropping and picking up times, and we have since changed our protocol and parking to the Canyon lot so that families have more ease to park and pick up. We are sorry that your pick up was not supportive and easeful.
Due to the unprecedented challenges as a small business, we are doing our very best to work through these times, and 2021 was a very challenging year to work through all the difficult challenges with patience and grace.
If, as you say our counselors napped and told the children to leave them alone, I would very much have wanted to hear this first hand, as this is not at all acceptable. We are a program dedicated to safe social emotional nature-led learning, we are a program dedicated to children connecting to our earth with phenomenal mentors I have personally vetted, we strive to always do our very best for our nature community families and our earth. Please accept our apologies.
My daughters (ages 6 and 9) attended the “girls ancestral fairy survival camp” for 2 weeks and loved it! It was the perfect mix of nature appreciation and pretend play with fairies. They even made a “fairy offering” at home one night, which shows how much the camp motivated them! Marisa was so warm and welcoming too. Both my girls blossomed at this camp. Will sign up again! Oh, and the Huddart Park location is really beautiful.
Bean In Nature
August 3, 2022
Hello Cathy! Awe! We are so grateful for your sweet, kind and thoughtful share here! We love to pass on our contagious enthusiasm for the earth and its creatures and it's mystery and wonder! We so appreciate your feedback! Yes! Huddart is so fun this week! Thank you!
I don’t know about the other reviews but from our experience it is not a well run group. We did the MH group.
Pros: It’s Outdoors, time in nature, kids played tag, kids made diy bug repellent.
Cons: 1st day it was hard to see their signage. There was another summer camp group in the same park and many people went there thinking it was BEAN. It was not. Some parents drove to another part of the park trying to find the group.
The communication with parents did not improve as the hike day location changed and they texted the morning while we were en route. It’s very unorganized and low budget camp. Their fishing day included making a fishing rod with a stick, yarn and a rock. The other crafts were similar using yarn and sticks. My kids said they did not learn any survival skills.
We appreciate the thought behind this camp but it really was a disappointment.
Pros: It’s Outdoors, time in nature, kids played tag, kids made diy bug repellent.
Cons: 1st day it was hard to see their signage. There was another summer camp group in the same park and many people went there thinking it was BEAN. It was not. Some parents drove to another part of the park trying to find the group.
The communication with parents did not improve as the hike day location changed and they texted the morning while we were en route. It’s very unorganized and low budget camp. Their fishing day included making a fishing rod with a stick, yarn and a rock. The other crafts were similar using yarn and sticks. My kids said they did not learn any survival skills.
We appreciate the thought behind this camp but it really was a disappointment.
Bean In Nature
August 3, 2022
Hello Myrna, we are so very sad that your kiddos camp was a disappointment. We try so very hard to train our staff well in safe social emotional training and physical wilderness first aide, as well as, finding the very best seasoned staff for each camp experience. It sounds as though there was definitely something off for you here at our MH camp! I would love to for you to come back and try us again, as the arrow does not always hit its mark, no matter how hard one practices their aim at their target goal. This is not to say your feedback is not important, of course. We will hope that you might try us again in the future. Thank you for your time.
My son enjoyed being outdoors and loved the activities, but his teachers didn’t feel the same way about him. At pickup, I was explicitly asked not to sign him up for summer camp because he has some challenges with activity transitions and complex social situations. My kid doesn’t use a special aide at school, and his behavior can be successfully managed through proper instruction. As I’ve written in another review, this program doesn’t train its teachers to deal with neurodivergent kids and simply excludes them.
Our son attended BEAN at the Steven's Creek location for the past year. He LOVED it! He said ' what sets BEAN apart from other Nature programs is that they are kind; not just to humans or kids, but to Nature, plants, creatures. They teach you these things by being that way and I want BEAN to be part of my life for all my homeschooling years.'. Not only do they learn essential survival skills, life skills, self care and responsibility, they learn how to be care takers of their future world! Marisa and her crew are wonderful and model what is needed to improve our planet. WE wholeheartedly recommend BEAN. We look forward to our day at BeAn and sorely miss it during holidays. Thank you Marisa and team!
BEan in Nature is a great program! They work at a lot of different locations, one of them being my work at an elementary school. They come and teach the kids about gardening, the environment, and about being a part of a community. I would really recommend this program to anyone with children.
Without BEan IN NATURE, so many students wouldn’t get to experience first hand what a outdoor program has to offer. BEan IN NATURE teaches throughout most of the Bay Area allowing families that move or change school districts to stay connected to there bean community.
Absolutely love love love BEAn IN Nature! Marisa has cultivated a phenomenal community and educational experience. After working with BEan IN NATURE and attending workshops as a participant I can confidently say that the sense of community and incredible knowledge that is offered to both young and old is the experience of a lifetime.
BEan in nature after school program was awesome. My son just loved it! They hike, craft, played game and so much more! Thank you for having put this amazing program for kids to spend time outside in nature. Your work is so important! We look forward trying the summer camps this summer! We heard great things about it!
Bean In Nature
May 13, 2022
Thank you so much Marie for your kind review! Our staff is committed to earth education and we are so grateful you see the importance for your child too! We hope to see your child with us this summer!
Bean in Nature's family camp out was an awesome experience. My teenager had a good time exploring the fun activities and making new friends. We were pleasantly surprised that the Bean camps are just as much fun for the teenagers as they are for the younger kids. Everyone was very kind and friendly. I highly recommend it!
Bean In Nature
May 10, 2022
Thank you Patricia for your kind review and welcoming spirit. We were very happy that your daughter had such a great time with us! Thank you for your support in the kitchen with our tortilla making and pot luck prep! We look forward to more adventures!
I have a highly sensitive child who has some challenges with complex social situations and highly structured activities. BEan has singled out my child because of his disability and has treated us badly, so I had to withdraw my family from the trip.
I signed up for the campout one month in advance but received a surprise email one day before the camping trip, telling me that I would have to watch my child during all of his camping activities because of his special needs. BEan's director assured me by email and phone that they are open to "all learners" but also gave me multiple disclaimers that the program is too small, they haven't had any training and are not really set up to support my son. It seems that "all learners" meant "all learners but your son".
I am not the first parent writing a negative review based on BEan's discrimination against families with neurodivergent kids. These are the very kids who can most benefit from being in nature, and it's very sad that BEan pushes them aside or punishes their families.
I signed up for the campout one month in advance but received a surprise email one day before the camping trip, telling me that I would have to watch my child during all of his camping activities because of his special needs. BEan's director assured me by email and phone that they are open to "all learners" but also gave me multiple disclaimers that the program is too small, they haven't had any training and are not really set up to support my son. It seems that "all learners" meant "all learners but your son".
I am not the first parent writing a negative review based on BEan's discrimination against families with neurodivergent kids. These are the very kids who can most benefit from being in nature, and it's very sad that BEan pushes them aside or punishes their families.
Bean In Nature
May 10, 2022
Dear Paulina, We always try to do our best to meet each child where they are developmentally, socially and emotionally. We also prioritize the safety and well-being of each child, especially since we are outside in a dynamic environment. Reasonable care and precautions are taken to ensure a positive, fun, and educational experience. We teach wild crafts, wild skills, and nature awareness and exploration. Knowing our exciting weekend would bring new challenges, new teachers, and a new landscape which could be overwhelming to him, we wanted to plan a strategy that would ensure your son would have a successful experience. Without the support of your son’s teacher Ms. Margaret, who wasn’t available due to a family emergency, we realized that he would need extra support. As you know, Ms. Margaret has built a strong rapport with him during his Saturday Survival Camp sessions and they have had the ability to work through many transitions and frustrations towards successful learning! His desire to return each Saturday confirms this. For the special Campout weekend we gave parents the choice to stay with or drop off their child. However, due to the circumstances, we asked you to accompany your son at the campout weekend. This isn’t unique as we’ve asked other parents in the past for similar reasons. We wish we could’ve given you more notice.
We are sad that you felt that your son and your family were excluded, when that was truly not our intention at all. We wish you both could have come and enjoyed the time with us. We wish you both the best.
Sincerely,
Marisa Bean
Director, Owner and Mother
BEan in Nature
We are sad that you felt that your son and your family were excluded, when that was truly not our intention at all. We wish you both could have come and enjoyed the time with us. We wish you both the best.
Sincerely,
Marisa Bean
Director, Owner and Mother
BEan in Nature
My daughter has always loved her summer camps with BEan in Nature! She will tell me about the skills she learned, the yummy things they cooked over the fire, the great crafts (useful things!) and the friends she made. We will be back! Thank you for all you do to encourage children to interact with and appreciate the outdoors!
Wonderful program and my son thoroughly loves it. Being in nature, learning all kinds of skills, connecting with the land- he comes back with a peace within him that is hard to describe. He could spend all day there and is always excited to go back again. I wish all children were so lucky...or all adults !!
Bean In Nature
May 10, 2022
Thank you Jean for taking the time to share with us the excitement your son when out in the wild with his weekly program! We are grateful you see the benefits of nature connection time for your child and for adults, we do TOO!
March 22, 2022
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Stevie Abrams
Verified Purchase
BEan in Nature program has been such a gift for my kids over the past year since my son took a summer program from them. Marisa, Bre, Simon, Jeremy all amazing teachers who really took the time to get to know my kids and develop a relationship. Also super high vibe positive place to be, you can tell these guys love what they do! My kids always come home so full and content. Marisa is very intentional with the program and making sure each kid is getting their needs met and is happy and thriving. She has really worked with us when needed to make sure that happened and I'm very grateful. Couldn't recommend this program enough, we love it and hope to continue!
My 2 children, Noah (12 years old) and Tessa (9 years old) both go to Bean In Nature and absolutely love it! This is the biggest highlight of their week! They spend hours in the forest (hands on learning about the environment, survival skills, hiking, meditating, doing crafts ...) and they both come back happy, dirty, full of stories and new knowledge about the soil, the plants, the environment, as well as great survival skills! This is an amazing program that gives children a true childhood and fill their heart with happiness and connection to nature!
Bean In Nature
May 10, 2022
Thank you Caroline for your praise in our BEan program! We appreciate your children with us each week and their enthusiasm to engage with us in all we do in our outdoor wild learning!
BEan In Nature is the perfect balm for our ten-year-old after being cooped up for these Covid years. Going into the forest at the nature preserve is the highlight of her week. The kids are great, the woods are beautiful, and the leaders are perfect role models and educators for her. We always hear "Simon said these are turkey tail mushrooms..." or "Melissa said you have to take a breath..." We have found community their too. BEan In Nature is our happy place.
March 22, 2022
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Stevie Abrams
Verified Purchase
BEan in Nature program has been such a gift for my kids over the past year since my son took a summer program from them. Marisa, Bre, Simon, Jeremy all amazing teachers who really took the time to get to know my kids and develop a relationship. Also super high vibe positive place to be, you can tell these guys love what they do! My kids always come home so full and content. Marisa is very intentional with the program and making sure each kid is getting their needs met and is happy and thriving. She has really worked with us when needed to make sure that happened and I'm very grateful. Couldn't recommend this program enough, we love it and hope to continue!
Our daughter (8) has had a wonderful experience at BEan in Nature. The teachers are engaging and very creative. She's learned about many elements of nature and has enjoyed the pottery and other crafts and building activities. The locations are always peaceful and safe. I highly recommend this program. We also really like the Survival Saturdays for our 8 and 11 year old.
My son loves this class, he looks forward to it every week. He likes the games, learning to make fire with flint and steel or a bow drill or hand drill, doing knife work, learning about mushrooms and plants, playing in the river, hiking, making a bow and arrow, making new friends, and everything else that the class offers him. I love that he is outside in the forest. When we go on hikes on our own, he is excited to identify the plants that he has learned about in class. His teacher, Bree, has vast amounts of knowledge and enthusiasm that she passes onto the kids. I think all kids should have the opportunity to have experiences like this.
BEan in Nature was fantastic! The right amount of organization and freedom with the opportunity to connect with children of different ages and young adults and adults. The nature component afforded the opportunity to develop new skills and to connect with the peace and beauty in our natural world. Awesome!
My 5 year old daughter loves this outdoor camp. She can’t wait to go again
Neurodivergent kids are not welcome here! My son has high-functioning autism & is fascinated with survival skills. He should have thrived at this camp, but the staff’s unwillingness & inability to manage a child with ASD was too much for them. They called me 1 & 1/2 days in to say that this camp “just isn’t for him.” My son has attended many camps successfully, so it’s shocking to me how ableist this organization is.
My older nephew went along with him to assist him on the second day, & he said the other kids were making fun of my son and the adults didn’t do anything though they were right there. My 13 y.o. nephew had to intervene because they wouldn’t. Funny because the program description says it teaches them “social skills.”
My son was heartbroken to learn that because of his autism, he would not be allowed to attend. That is also discrimination.
My older nephew went along with him to assist him on the second day, & he said the other kids were making fun of my son and the adults didn’t do anything though they were right there. My 13 y.o. nephew had to intervene because they wouldn’t. Funny because the program description says it teaches them “social skills.”
My son was heartbroken to learn that because of his autism, he would not be allowed to attend. That is also discrimination.
Bean In Nature
July 15, 2021
At Bean in Nature we aim to support all students in deepening their connection to nature, themselves, and their peers. While we use many strategies to reach all students, we know that our program doesn't fit every child. Our program is not designed to provide 1:1 mentoring/support, but we encourage families with this need to seek out another amazing program that can. Our first priority across our programs is safety. If a child is unable to engage consistently in a group dynamic and one-on-one support is needed, we must acknowledge that this is not what our program can accommodate. While this does not make the child a "problem" in any way, it simply means the child may have needs outside of what our program does, and that our program may not be the right fit for your family's needs. We also ask that children who attend our programs are doing so enthusiastically and with an open-mind, ready to engage with the group and explore their passions; that is, if a child is showing through body language, verbal communication, or otherwise that they do not wish to engage or participate in the group dynamic over the course of a day or more, we may decide that it is best that the child no longer participate.
My kid had the best time last week at the camp. He loves nature and enjoys exploring outdoor animals and plants. Every day, he came home excited to share what he did during the day, including making a wooden spoon by carving and sanding, making his own wood cane(?), having henna tattoos and making fire, etc.
Every teacher in the camp was nice and kind. Thank you so much for making this camp one of the best memories my child will have!
Every teacher in the camp was nice and kind. Thank you so much for making this camp one of the best memories my child will have!
July 21, 2021
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Celeste Lawrence
Verified Purchase
I loved what BEan was able to provide for my daughter. After an intense year of increased online usage and screen time, not to mention the indoor summer of last years fires, it was a pleasure to find something that would keep her outdoors having a good time while gaining knowledge of the natural world and picking up skills that encourage her curiosity and bravery. No kid glove handling of important life skills at this camp. The instructors were knowledgeable and patient with life experience stories. I admired the attention to the kids and the camp structure, while at the same time there wasn't a rigidity or strictness that would stomp out a chance for a kid to climb a tree or get dirty. My daughter was so sad when the week was over, always a good sign! I will most definitely be putting my daughter into more BEan camps in the future.
June 13, 2021
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Christina Ardel
Verified Purchase
My son has absolutely loved Bean in nature! He thoroughly enjoys each day spent with the class. The leaders are amazing, caring, respecting and trusting of the kids. The adventures are fun and my son has learned a lot too. Thank you Bean team!
May 2, 2021
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Julie Levri
Verified Purchase
I loved picking up my son after his outdoor Wednesdays in the Stevens Creek Adventure Program and seeing his relaxed demeanor. There is something about playing outside for a long stretch of time that helps to center him. BEan In Nature was great about fostering a relaxed, peaceful and fun outdoor environment. The instructors were kind, calm, and supportive, and I feel like that was reflected in the kind behavior of the kids, too. This program was a great relief for us during the pandemic!
Bean In Nature
May 3, 2021
Thank you so very much for your review Julie! We have so very much enjoyed having your son with us and we know how important nature-led learning is for the children, and ourselves as adults! Your descriptions here clearly exemplify just what our goal is, and we are so very grateful we have made an impact on you boy and that it shows! We believe in what we do and we know nature heals! We are so thankful you took the time to tell us your personal share! Thank you!
May 21, 2021
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Eva Jordan
Verified Purchase
BEan in Nature was a blessing and a boon for our family this past year! I wholly trust Marisa and the counselors, and my kiddo came home full of stories about crawfish, monkey dojo, hiking, whittling, crafts, s'mores, and awesome kids she got to know. My 10-year-old was initially nervous and reluctant to give it a try, and after one day was clear she wanted to return. By the third day she was totally engaged and never looked back. There was plenty of space for her to hang back and journal; she could always choose which activities to do or not do. A beautiful balance is struck at BEan between kids exploring and leading and being free-wheeling, but also enough structure and guidance each day that they feel held and safe and excited for what's next. I also really appreciated Marisa's clear and transparent communication around Covid guidelines and issues, as well as any other changes that occurred through the year due to weather etc. If we weren't moving, I'm sure my kiddo would want to continue.
May 21, 2021
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Eva Jordan
Verified Purchase
BEan in Nature was a blessing and a boon for our family this past year! I wholly trust Marisa and the counselors, and my kiddo came home full of stories about crawfish, monkey dojo, hiking, whittling, crafts, s'mores, and awesome kids she got to know. My 10-year-old was initially nervous and reluctant to give it a try, and after one day was clear she wanted to return. By the third day she was totally engaged and never looked back. There was plenty of space for her to hang back and journal; she could always choose which activities to do or not do. A beautiful balance is struck at BEan between kids exploring and leading and being free-wheeling, but also enough structure and guidance each day that they feel held and safe and excited for what's next. I also really appreciated Marisa's clear and transparent communication around Covid guidelines and issues, as well as any other changes that occurred through the year due to weather etc. If we weren't moving, I'm sure my kiddo would want to continue.
My son has been participating in the BEAN in Nature program for the past 4.5 years. This year his younger sibling joined him. We have been amazed at the consistent reliability and quality of their offerings. Marisa is an approachable and committed program director who has a noble mission of re-infusing nature into our lives, at a time when we need it most. What I love is the laid back, stress-less, nature of the program. Kids are encouraged to try new things in a compassionate and unassuming manner. Various activities are offered, from crafts, games, hikes, investigations, journaling, and more. So each child can find what feels right for them in the moment. I am proud that my son will attend the teen leadership program this year.
May 11, 2021
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Heidi Locicero
BEan IN NATURE is a phenomenal program. The staff is spectacular and the curriculum immersive. This program fosters the whole person connected with the Earth, part of nature not separate from. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in nature connection.
My sons have participated in Bean in Nature program for the past five years, and they have enjoyed every class. This is a wonderful program. It gives kids the opportunity to explore nature and outdoors in a safe environment, disconnected from devices and technology. The kids build shelters, make fire, play games, explore, hike, learn about plants and animals, connect with nature, climb trees, make friends, have fun, After each class the kids could be muddy or wet, but they are always happy and looking forward to more adventures in the next class.
Bean In Nature
May 3, 2021
Thank you Marianna! We have been so fortunate to have your boys with us for these many years. It is families like you, long timers in our nature-led program, that help share with others that nature-led programming works, the importance, how disconnection from devices is integral and how it has impacted your children and given them the chance to just be kids, freely connecting with nature and gaining all the benefits over the years! Thank you for taking the time to share with us and those that will be supported to know BEan Nature-led programming is a phenomenal program!
April 20, 2021
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Lucky Johnson
Verified Purchase
My daughter has done many different programs throughout the years with Bean in Nature - nature classes at A-Team, summer camps, and a semester long naturalist program. If you are looking for a true full immersion nature experience for your child this is the program. My daughter experiences freedom while learning wilderness skills, independence, responsibility, and an appreciation for the natural world. She is always very exuberant when I pick her up at the end of the day. I consider Bean in Nature absolutely integral to my daughter's education.
Bean In Nature
April 20, 2021
Thank you so very much for your review today Lucky! We are so grateful and appreciative! We look forward to more adventures with your talented, nature loving daughter!
April 28, 2021
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Kris Andry
Verified Purchase
My children have really enjoyed their days with Bean in Nature. They come home talking about the leaders, what they learned, and I get all kinds of news about their friends in class. It has become very important social and learning time for both of them.
April 28, 2021
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Kris Andry
Verified Purchase
My children have really enjoyed their days with Bean in Nature. They come home talking about the leaders, what they learned, and I get all kinds of news about their friends in class. It has become very important social and learning time for both of them.
Bean In Nature
April 28, 2021
Thank you so much Kris! We have enjoyed your kiddos so much this year! Thank you for enrolling T and E with us this year!
Daughter came home saying she had fun & had a lot to think about. This was a nice surprise. It seems like she learned a lot.
Bean In Nature
March 8, 2021
Thank you Jennifer! We are grateful for your daughters enrollment in our Wilderness Saturday Program!
My daughter LOVED this program. She would come home each day and excitedly tell me all about what she learned. She now has a new appreciation for nature and is excited she has learned how to identify plants, forage for food, is knife certified, and knows how to build a shelter. She also really appreciated the time spent with other children outdoors.
Our daughter Genevieve has attended various BEaninNature summer camps and the ongoing weekly Earth Education Program on Wednesday.
The positive impact to her overall development, both educationally and socially has been hugely significant. Her appreciation of nature and its fragility, increased empathy demonstrated by working collaboratively with others and being receptive of different opinions are just a few of the areas she has grown during her time at BEaninNature. In addition, her critical thinking skills have really flourished as she is faced with challenges that are outside the relatively confined choices available in a traditional classroom. This had led to increased confidence to address some of the challenges she faces in everyday life, including her academic studies.
We can't recommend BEaninNature enough and we are more than happy to answer any questions from any parents considering the program. Please feel free to contact us. Rob & Siân
The positive impact to her overall development, both educationally and socially has been hugely significant. Her appreciation of nature and its fragility, increased empathy demonstrated by working collaboratively with others and being receptive of different opinions are just a few of the areas she has grown during her time at BEaninNature. In addition, her critical thinking skills have really flourished as she is faced with challenges that are outside the relatively confined choices available in a traditional classroom. This had led to increased confidence to address some of the challenges she faces in everyday life, including her academic studies.
We can't recommend BEaninNature enough and we are more than happy to answer any questions from any parents considering the program. Please feel free to contact us. Rob & Siân
My 7 year old boy really enjoyed the summer camp. The staff was super nice and professional. He came back everyday with fun stories and new things he learned about the nature.
Bean In Nature
August 17, 2020
Thank you so much! We had a great summer and look forward to next summer with your son! Thank you for joining us and we will see you again soon!
My daughter who is 5 and half years old literally had a blast at the camp. Thank to the great organization and the outstanding staff. The location was very nice too.
My 7-year-old loved it. Kids spent all day outside and had a variety of activities. The coaches were engaged and great with children.
