Welcome to ELCCT

Where Education and

Conservation Meet.

You Voted, ELCCT Wins!

The Indian Rock Summer Day Camp was named Bristol’s Best Camp. Additionally, the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center was voted Bristol’s Best Kid’s Activity!

Thank you to our volunteers, sponsors, donors, and patrons for the continuous support during ELCCT’s 55th Anniversary!

Located in central Connecticut, you’ll find the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center. Your avenue to nature experiences on 132 acres, including the neighboring Pigeon Hill Preserve property, which is home to over 5 miles of trails through woodlands, wetlands, and wildflower fields.

Our environmental education programs are offered at the public Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center, the private Indian Rock Nature Preserve, and the schools of Connecticut, reaching over 20,000 students from over 70 Connecticut communities each year!

Our mission is to…“Inspire the appreciation and enjoyment of nature through education and conservation, fostering a healthy environment and an improved quality of life.”

Now Open!

The Wallace Barnes Accessible Nature Trail

One of a kind in the state of Connecticut! The Wallace Barnes Nature Trail began construction in March of 2023. This one mile-long nature trail is fully accessible to people using wheelchairs, strollers, walkers and other mobility devices.

The trail is located at the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center. The trail features benches, pull off sheltered areas, and signage as it leads you through various habitats.