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Harford Glen Environmental Education Center

The Harford Glen Environmental Education Center, an integral part of the Harford County Public School System, coordinates a comprehensive, sequential, and participatory program of environmental education. By focusing on a curriculum that promotes awareness, and understanding of the local and global environment, the Harford Glen staff seeks to produce a responsibility ethic of stewardship and sustainability in the total school community.

502 West Wheel Road, Bel Air, MD 21015
Phone: 410-638-3903  Fax: 410-638-3907
Map and Directions

Harford Glen is open to the public, from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., on the dates shown below.

April 1 – Last Day of School
Open on weekends

Summer –
Open 7 days a week

First Day of School – October 31
Open on weekends



The Harford Glen volunteer counselor application is now 100% online! When students submit their applications, an email will be sent to their parents/guardians, school counselors, and all their teachers. This will streamline the process and alert teachers right away when their students decide to volunteer.
The link to the online application is available by clicking here.

Harford Glen Trail Map - Printable 

Inclement Weather Policy

Delay on the first day of the program
If HCPS delays the opening of school on the first day of the program, the Harford Glen program will also be delayed the same amount of time. For example, if HCPS delays opening of school for two hours, the bus will pick up the fifth grade students at school at 11:00 am (or 11:30 am for fourth tier schools).

Cancellation on the first day of the program
If HCPS cancels school on the first day of the program, the Harford Glen program will also be cancelled for that day. Whenever schools open the following day, whether it is on time or delayed opening, buses will arrive to pick up students. If it is a delayed opening, see above.

Cancellation on the first and second day of the program
If HCPS cancels school on the first and second day of the program, the entire session will be cancelled and make up dates will be scheduled for the end of the school year.

Threat of inclement weather during the program
If severe weather is forecast during your session, the Harford Glen staff will consult with the elementary school administrators and the transportation division of Harford County Public Schools to determine whether students will remain at Harford Glen, if the session will be modified, or if the session will be cancelled and make up dates will be scheduled for the end of the school year.

Harford Glen Merchandise

All proceeds from the sale of Harford Glen merchandise support Harford Glen projects. Browse the products available here and then place your order on the Harford Glen Foundation online store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do students use trash bags instead of luggage? +
Using trash bags for packing helps reduce the transport of insects and microorganisms that may live in suitcases, duffel bags, or other luggage. This policy also promotes an inclusive environment, ensuring that all students arrive with similar belongings. In addition, trash bags are lightweight, easy to carry, and simple to label.
If my child wets the bed, is there a plan to handle this discreetly? +
We regularly welcome campers who occasionally or routinely wet the bed. Several accommodations can be arranged ahead of time to ensure your child feels comfortable and confident, and that the situation remains private. If this is a concern, please email your child’s 5th grade teacher. We will then share a detailed list of commonly used accommodations.
Will my child be able to practice their religion (pray, fast, etc.) while at camp? +
Absolutely! If your child needs a quiet space to pray, meal-time adjustments, or any other religious accommodation, please contact their 5th grade teacher. We will work with you to create an appropriate plan or provide the necessary space.
Can my child still participate in outdoor activities if their session is during winter? +
Winter is a wonderful time to visit Harford Glen. With the leaves off the trees, it’s an excellent season for spotting birds and other wildlife, and snow often allows campers to find animal tracks. All outdoor activities—such as hiking, birdwatching, and watershed exploration—will still take place. Students should come prepared with coats, hats, gloves, proper footwear, and layered clothing, as we will be outdoors. If a student needs one of these items, we have plenty for them to borrow. If HCPS is closed due to inclement weather, Harford Glen will also be closed (see our inclement weather policy), and sessions will be adjusted or rescheduled as needed.
My child is unsure about staying overnight. What if they change their mind or feel homesick? +
If there’s a chance your child may want to stay overnight, we strongly encourage them to come prepared to spend the night. If they become homesick or decide they would rather go home, they may call you at any time from the nurse’s office, and you can pick them up.
If cell phones and smart watches are not allowed, how can I contact my child in an emergency? +
If you need to reach your child or pick them up for any reason, you may call Harford Glen at 410-638-3903 at any time. The phone is monitored 24/7 while campers are on site. A nurse is also on duty 24/7 and has access to all guardian and emergency contact information. If your child needs to contact you due to homesickness or an emergency, the nurse will assist them in calling home. Please make sure your contact information is up to date with the main office at your child’s school.
What does supervision and safety look like at Harford Glen? +
During the day: Campers travel to activities with their classroom teacher and/or a Harford Glen staff member. All instructional staff are HCPS teachers with many years of experience. Carefully selected high school students also serve as camp counselors, acting as role models and assisting with supervision.

At night: One or more HCPS teachers stay in a teacher room connected to each lodge. A Harford Glen staff member is on site throughout the night, along with an on-duty nurse and a security guard. The security guard remains outside the lodges and monitors the property.

Kubota: We utilize a four wheel-drive, all-terrain vehicle called a Kubota to transport students with physical limitations. Only Harford Glen staff members drive the Kubota and safety belts are mandatory.
How do you choose counselors? +
HCPS students in grades 10–12 may apply online to serve as counselors. Each application is reviewed by HCPS staff, including the student’s school counselor, assistant principal, classroom teachers, and a Harford Glen teacher. The review includes academic performance, attendance, and behavior to determine eligibility. Students interested in applying may submit an application at: https://www.hcps.org/students/harfordglenvolunteer
What if my child cannot eat the food being served? +
If your child has a documented food-related medical need, please reach out to your child’s 5th grade teacher or the school nurse. In these cases, campers are allowed to bring their own food to camp with a completed Medical Diet Form. Your child’s teacher or school nurse can provide additional details and guidance.
Can my child bring their favorite tumbler or Stanley? +
Tumblers and Stanley cups are not recommended, as they are not spill-proof. Please pack a standard water bottle that fully seals, so your child can safely carry it in their backpack.
Tips from the Pros! +
Waterproof footwear is strongly recommended, even if rain is not in the forecast. Morning grass is often wet, and Maryland weather can be unpredictable.

Bring a fitted sheet, regardless of your bedding choice. Even if your child brings a sleeping bag, a fitted sheet underneath helps keep bedding in place and adds comfort
Wooden Duck image for Harford Glen