Welcome to the Nature Pen Pal Exchange!
This is the place for families and nature groups to have the opportunity to exchange nature treasures across the U.S. and Canada through our Nature Pen Pal Exchange program. We are excited to have you here! Below are the details of what this program is, who it’s for, and how it works…
What is the Nature Pen Pal Exchange (NPPE)?
The Nature Pen Pal Exchange (NPPE) is a heartwarming program that connects families and nature groups across the U.S. and Canada. Each season (winter, spring, summer, and fall), participants are paired with new pen pals to exchange nature treasures collected during their outdoor adventures.
From pinecones and seashells to pressed flowers and feathers, these treasures tell the story of your region’s natural beauty—and invite your pen pals to explore the wonders of theirs.
Who Can Participate in NPPE?
Families with children, youth, or teens are welcome to join! We also offer exchanges for nature groups or clubs. If you lead a group for families with kids or teens, your group can be matched with another group to exchange treasures and stories from your part of the world.
How the NPPE Program Works
You can sign up for any season you’d like to participate in—one, two, or all four. There’s no requirement to join every time. A small participation fee per family or group helps us organize and coordinate the exchanges.
Each season has a sign-up deadline. Once registration closes and pen pals are paired, your participation becomes a commitment—so that every family or group receives their eagerly awaited package of nature treasures!
You’ll have about eight weeks each season to collect your items—things you’ve found on hikes, nature walks, family trips, or even in your own backyard. At the end of the season, you’ll send your treasures to your nature pen pals. Many families describe it as feeling like Christmas in the mail when their exchange arrives!
You’ll also receive a helpful guide with details on:
- What can and cannot be sent
- How to package and ship your items
- Creative ideas to make your exchange meaningful and fun
Why Join the NPPE?
The benefits reach far beyond the mailbox.
The benefits of joining NPPE are countless! You’ll:
- Spend quality time outdoors each season with your family or group
- Discover and learn about the natural world around you
- Experience nature in other regions through your pen pal’s treasures
- Build friendships and connections that often last beyond a single season
Read to Join the Adventure?
Registration for each new season is announced here on our website and on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
However, our email community is always the first to hear about new exchanges, updates, and opportunities—so be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop!
When registration opens, you’ll be able to sign up for the next exchange and begin your family or nature group’s next adventure in discovery, connection, and creativity.
We are thrilled that you have stopped by and hope you and your family will be joining us soon for our next exchange. We can’t wait to see where your next adventure takes you!
Happy Exploring,
Jen Wilmoth
