Photo Gallery
Discover the natural beauty and vibrant community of Demarest Nature Center
Browse our collection of photos showcasing the diverse wildlife, scenic trails, seasonal transformations, and community events that make Demarest Nature Center a special place. From spring wildflowers to winter snowscapes, from busy program days to quiet morning walks, these images capture the essence of our preserve throughout the year.
Bald Eagle
A rare and spectacular visitor to our preserve
White-tailed Deer
Common residents of our woodland trails
Black-capped Chickadee
A cheerful year-round resident of the preserve
White-tailed Fawn
Young deer sheltering in the woodland
Barred Owlet
Young owl nesting in our mature forest
Trestle Bridge Trail
Our most photographed landmark
Main Loop Trail
Winding through mature hardwood forest
Preserve Stream
Peaceful water flows through the sanctuary
Woodland Loop
Shaded paths perfect for summer walks
Spring Native Plants
Native species planted during our annual spring planting day
Summer Reflection
Lush summer canopy reflected in the still pond
Fall Colors
Spectacular autumn transformation
Winter Fun
Ice skating on the frozen pond — a cherished winter tradition
Maple Syrup Making
Annual spring tradition delights families
Summer Nature Camp
Children explore and learn outdoors
Bird Watching Walk
Guided birding with expert naturalists
Oktoberfest Craft Show
Our biggest fundraising event of the year
School Programs
Students engage in outdoor learning
Birdhouse Building
Hands-on workshop for all ages
Spring Wildflowers
Native wildflowers emerging through the forest floor
Woodland Flora
Rich diversity of native plants across the preserve
Preserve Greenery
Lush native vegetation thriving in shaded areas
Forest Fungi
Diverse mushroom species thrive here
Native Plant Garden
Native species supporting local pollinators and birds
Heritage Oak
Ancient oaks provide vital habitat
Butterfly
Pollinators thriving in our native plant habitat
Turkey Vulture
Nature's clean-up crew soaring over the preserve
Raccoon
Clever nocturnal residents of the woodland
Red Fox
Elusive and adaptable predator of the preserve
Belted Kingfisher
Striking fisher seen along our stream
Pileated Woodpecker
Our largest woodpecker, drumming through the forest
Trail in Bloom
Spring light filtering through the canopy
Preserve Landscape
The natural beauty of our 55-acre sanctuary
Forest Path
Quiet trails through mature hardwood forest
Woodland Sanctuary
Every season brings new beauty to the preserve
Canoe Day
Paddling adventures on our local waterways
Foraging Walk
Learn to identify and harvest edible wild plants
Demarest 5K
Community fun run through the nature center
Dirt Club
Kids getting hands-on with nature and soil science
Trail Volunteer Day
Community members maintaining our beautiful trails
Community Walk
Neighbors exploring the preserve together
Winter Scavenger Hunt
Families discovering nature's hidden winter treasures
Spring Trail Walk
Guided spring walk through the awakening preserve
Grand Prize Winner
Charlotte Clark — Annual Photo Contest
Grand Prize Winner
Alexander Shaari — Annual Photo Contest
1st Place Winner
Max Goldstein — Annual Photo Contest
3rd Place — Adult Color
Maureen Bennett O'Connor — "Fluff on Pond"
Annual Photo Contest
Each year, we host a nature photography contest open to all ages. Photographers are invited to capture the beauty of Demarest Nature Center through the seasons. Winners are displayed in our visitor center and featured on our website.
Categories Include:
- Wildlife Photography
- Landscape & Trail Scenes
- Macro Photography (plants, insects, details)
- Seasonal Beauty
- Youth Photography (ages 17 and under)
Contest Timeline: Submissions typically accepted in late summer/early fall. Winners announced at our Oktoberfest Craft Show.
Learn More About the Photo ContestPhotography Workshops
Interested in improving your nature photography skills? We offer seasonal photography workshops led by experienced photographers and naturalists.
Nature Photography Basics
Learn composition, lighting, and camera settings for capturing stunning outdoor images
Wildlife Photography
Techniques for photographing birds and animals in their natural habitat
Macro Photography
Discover the tiny world of insects, flowers, and forest details
Seasonal Photo Walks
Guided walks focused on capturing the beauty of each season
Come See It for Yourself
The best way to experience the beauty of Demarest Nature Center is to visit in person!