2026 Nature Camps
Budding naturalists and outdoor adventurers will love exploring more than 550 acres of environmental preserve. Campers gain valuable knowledge of the natural world through hands-on exploration of the Nature Center ponds, woodlands, and meadows. Play in the creek, catch your first fish, hike the trails, or learn how to build a campfire.
Don't forget, Museum Members get a 10% discount!
Ages 4 - 6
Animal Adventures
Ages 4 - 6 | Fee $299
Week 7: August 17 – 21
Why do birds fly, frogs hop, and ladybugs have spots? Which animals build nests in trees, dig holes in the ground, sleep in the forest or live in a pond? We will hone our skills with the magnifying glasses and binoculars as we find out the answers to these questions and more! Join us as we explore the fascinating lives of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects through stories, crafts, and other fun activities.
Ages 7 - 10
Nature Play
Ages 7 - 10 | Fee: $299
Week 2: July 13 – 17
Week 4: July 27 – 31
Week 5: August 3 – 7
Week 6: August 10 – 14
Week 7: August 17 – 21
The great outdoors is great for kids! During this program, campers will work as a team to sample what Mother Nature has to offer as they immerse themselves in the natural world and engage in a variety of crafts, games, and activities. Play in the creek, build a fort, search for salamanders, explore the trails and ponds, cool off in the sprinkler, amongst other adventures.
Salamander Squad
Ages 7 - 10 | Fee: $299
Week 1: July 6 – 10
Week 3: July 20 – 24
Week 5: August 3 – 7
Week 7: August 17 – 21
Amazing amphibians are all around us, you just need to know where to look! Spend a week searching the woodlands and ponds for these cold-blooded creatures around the nature center, where they are known to live. Learn how to safely locate, document, and protect each species. Use field guides, nets and magni-viewers to study them up close. Listen to stories, sing songs, create salamander crafts, and more!
Ages 11 - 15
Food, Forage & Flames
Ages 11 - 15 | Fee: $299
Week 1: July 6 – 10
Week 4: July 27 – 31
One of the coolest parts of camping is cooking over an open fire. Collect wood, spark a flame, and watch the fire burn until you are ready to cook! This camp will teach you to safely forage for supplies, create a fire, and cook over an open flame. Each day, campers will help to create a delicious treat. Roast marshmallows, make a mountain pie, and more!
Outdoor Survival
Ages 11 - 15 | Fee: $299
Week 2: July 13 – 17
Week 6: August 10 – 14
Gain confidence and comfort in being outdoors during this basic survival skills adventure. Become proficient at hands-on activities such as camp cooking, tracking, fishing, and navigation. Build a basic shelter, learn about useful plants, and have fun with camp crafts. Connect outdoor safety and survival today to the past through lore and legend.
Fishing
Ages 11 - 15 | Fee: $350
Week 5: August 3 – 7
Week 7: August 17 – 21
Whether you are new to fishing or have been fishing for years, there is something for everyone in this class! Learn (or sharpen) your skills in identifying species of fish and aquatic insects, scouting for bait, baiting a hook, catching, preparing and cooking a fish over an open fire. Practice your skills while exploring fishing ponds and the Oatka Creek located on the Museum land that is open only for guided experiences.