DISCOVER NATURE JOURNALING AT HERSHEY GARDENS 

Hershey Gardens

TWIGS & GIGS. Fall + Winter 2025. Vol. 19 No. 2.

Hershey Gardens is inviting guests to slow down, look closer and connect more deeply with the natural world through the art of “nature journaling.” Nature journaling is a simple yet powerful practice that combines observations, curiosity and creativity. It involves regularly spending time in nature, recording observations, perceptions and feelings. But it’s about more than just putting a pen to paper—it’s a way to slow down, connect deeply with the natural world, and document observations and reflections. It’s a subcategory of the larger practice of journaling, and it’s not just a current trend. Many famous scientists, thinkers and explorers throughout the ages, including Leonardo DaVinci, Charles Darwin, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, documented their ideas, thoughts and experiences in journals. They used the three journaling languages: words, sketches and numbers, just as we do today.       

WHY NAUTRE JOURNALING?

Whether you’re an artist, writer, scientist or simply someone who loves being outdoors, nature journaling can become a fulfilling and meditative practice. Like other forms of journaling, it can have benefits that include helping to reduce stress, cultivate mindfulness, sharpen memory and improve mood. With a regular nature journaling practice, we can strengthen our powers of observation and increase our focus, in addition to appreciating nature in a deeper, more meaningful way.

WHAT TO JOURNAL ABOUT?

Literally anything in the world around us makes a fitting subject to observe and record, as long as it captures your attention and holds your interest. Things that you wish to document and remember, to learn more about, are already an expert on, animal, vegetable, mineral - it’s all fair game. The point isn’t to pick something pretty to draw, it’s more about observing deeply and recording carefully.         

HOW TO JOURNAL ABOUT NATURE

Journal entries are personal and subjective. Many people journal by instinct, putting to paper whatever moves them in the moment. There are, however, methods that can be helpful in guiding us as we journal. A quick internet search reveals much information from willing teachers and enthusiasts, as well as an abundance of beautiful and inspirational examples of journaling methods and styles. “Journaling is not about being an artist, but a way to understand the plants, insects and landscapes around you,” said Vera Kolstrom, visitor experience manager. “There is no right or wrong way to nature journal, but to get started, it’s best to try these three simple prompts: I notice; I wonder; it reminds me of…”

“Through words and sketches, participants can collect and record what they see, hear and feel in nature – all in one notebook that is passed from one guest to the next,” added Kolstrom. “As guests contribute, the nature journal will grow.” Each nature journaling kit has all the tools participants will need to record their observations: a notebook, magnifying glass, binoculars, ruler, water colors, colored pencils, sketch pencils and other art accessories – all in a tote bag that is easy to carry. “It’s perfect for individuals or families who want to experience nature together,” said Kolstrom. ”We invite everyone to come explore the Gardens with fresh eyes and leave your discoveries behind.”

See the full issue of TWIGS & GIGS. Fall + Winter 2025: here