Is this program free to attend?

Yes, Science with Sam is a free program aimed at teens aged 13 to 17, but registration is required.

Where do the sessions take place?

Sessions take place outdoors in various natural locations around Jupiter, Florida, including coastal and estuary environments.

Do teens need prior science knowledge?

No prior knowledge is required; the program caters to all interest levels and encourages curiosity.

How long does each session last?

Each session typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours.

Are parents allowed to stay during the program?

Parents may usually wait nearby, but sessions are designed for teens to engage independently with instructors.

What should teens bring to the program?

Participants should bring sun protection, water, and wear suitable outdoor clothing and shoes.

Explore Science with Sam: Engaging Outdoor Science Adventures for Teens in Jupiter, Florida

Located in Jupiter, Florida, the Green Teens - Science with Sam program offers an exciting, hands-on scientific journey especially designed for teens aged 13 to 17. This immersive outdoor adventure introduces participants to diverse science topics each week, combining the thrill of discovery with the natural beauty of the Florida coast. Jupiter, known for its stunning beaches and rich ecosystems, provides the perfect backdrop for young explorers eager to connect with science through real-world experiences beyond the classroom.

Science with Sam takes a fresh approach to environmental education by tailoring sessions to capture the curious minds of teenagers. Each week brings new themes that span from marine biology and local ecology to meteorology and geology, allowing participants to delve deep into the unique scientific aspects of their surroundings. The program is structured to encourage interaction, critical thinking, and hands-on investigation, turning natural spaces into open-air laboratories.

What makes Science with Sam truly stand out in the Jupiter area is its dynamic focus on teen engagement, offering an alternative to traditional summer camps or indoor classes. The program embraces the diverse habitats of southeast Florida—including coastal dunes, estuaries, and tropical flora—to highlight the region’s extraordinary ecology. Participants might observe native wildlife, study water samples, or even track weather patterns firsthand, embedding ecological literacy in fun, memorable activities.

Moreover, Jupiter’s rich history of environmental preservation feeds into the program’s narrative. Local efforts to protect habitats like the nearby Loxahatchee River and the National Seashore are integrated into lessons, helping teens appreciate their role in conservation. Parents and guardians appreciate this hands-on experience, as it not only educates but inspires young adults to advocate for sustainable outdoor recreation.

Registration is recommended to ensure a spot in this free, weekly program, which fills quickly due to its popularity among local families. Whether your teen is a budding scientist or simply curious about the world around them, Green Teens - Science with Sam provides an unmatched opportunity to learn, explore, and grow in one of Florida’s most vibrant natural settings. For travelers passing through Jupiter, it’s a chance to connect with the local community and witness conservation-minded education in action.

About Loxahatchee River Center

Located in Jupiter, Florida, the Loxahatchee River Center (River Center) is a community-focused environmental education facility dedicated to connecting people with the Loxahatchee River and Indian River Lagoon. The River Center offers a wide range of free and low-cost programs for families, students, homeschool groups, and teens, including field trips with interactive tours, touch tank demonstrations, and state-of-the-art aquariums that showcase local ecosystems. Regular public programs include Science with Sam (weekly science sessions for ages 6–12), Green Teens (science for ages 13–17), Bloomin' in the Garden (monthly pollinator garden activities), Nature Journaling, and a monthly lecture series featuring local environmental organizations.

For school groups and homeschoolers, the River Center provides curriculum-aligned field trip experiences at Burt Reynolds Park that emphasize hands-on learning and environmental stewardship. The Center also offers unique outreach experiences such as seine and dip netting at Blowing Rocks Preserve and a Boating Safely Course for ages 12 and up, presented in collaboration with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and sponsored by the AustinBlu Foundation. Educators and volunteers staff programs, ensuring safe, engaging interpretation of local habitats and wildlife.

With a focus on accessibility and stewardship, the Loxahatchee River Center has established itself as a trusted local resource for environmental education in Jupiter, Florida. Its combination of professional partnerships, free community offerings, and hands-on exhibits supports lifelong learning about the region’s waterways. Visitors can check the River Center's event calendar for registration details, schedules, and seasonal topics that help families plan visits and join conservation efforts year round.