Welcome to Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary

What Can You Expect During Your Visit?

Your adventure at the sanctuary is filled with exciting activities and surprises. Depending on the weather, you might enjoy self-guided activities in our new pavilion or watch short educational videos. Our knowledgeable staff regularly hosts fascinating mini-programs, covering everything from butterflies and moths to axolotls, lizards, and turtle feedings. For younger visitors, we offer storytime and crafts to spark their creativity.

One of the highlights of your visit is meeting live butterflies up close. You’ll have the opportunity to create happy memories while crafting a keepsake to take home.

A trip to Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary isn’t just a visit—it’s a chance to connect with nature in a truly transformative way.

Rain or Shine, We’ve Got You Covered

Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary is an indoor facility, which makes it a perfect destination for a rainy day. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or an enriching educational experience, there’s always something to explore here, no matter the weather.

Our Commitment to Wildlife Conservation

We take our responsibility to the environment seriously. Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary is fully permitted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and adheres to all required regulations and safeguards. Our sanctuary is licensed to house butterfly and moth species that are native to Pennsylvania and Florida, ensuring that our work supports local ecosystems. No tropical species are allowed, in compliance with federal regulations.

Amenities

• Indoor “Flutterarium” live butterfly flight room
• Exotic Frogs & more
• Fun educational mini-programs
• Monarch watch way-station
• Unique nature-based gift shop
• Outdoor picnic area
• Outdoor pavilion set up with kids’ activities
• Handicap access
• Walk-in hours 7 days a week (no reservations needed)
• Weekly specials and events
• Butterfly releases
• Free car and bus parking on-site

At Bear Mountain Butterflies, You Can…

• Earn a scout badge
• Have a unique nature-based shopping experience
• Meet our knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate staff
• Connect with the natural world

Should I bring my toddler to see the butterflies?

We are a hands-on science-based education center and lots of fun, but if your child is too young to go to the movies, we are probably not the appropriate place for a visit. Perhaps you might consider a visit in July or August, bring a picnic, use our tables outside, and explore the native pollinators in the garden in front of the Sanctuary. In the wild, butterflies are not likely to fly in the face of your toddler! We LOVE children and don’t want them to be afraid of bugs.

PLEASE NOTE:

Strollers are not allowed inside the Sanctuary building due to the fire code compliance regulations. With very young children who normally use a stroller, we recommend bringing a backpack or snuggly with you. Thank you for understanding.

What people are saying:

“I wanted to take the time to thank everybody at the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary. My husband and I were there with our two children. They really enjoyed the activities, and of course getting up close with the butterflies. We all had a great time and look forward to visiting again!

I really liked the posters with all of the facts about different insects. The young man in the butterfly room was very knowledgeable too! Everybody was so friendly and knowledgeable! Thank you so much for the fun, educational experience!”

Sincerely,
Aubrey