Nature Explorers Summer Camp
"We are continually impressed by the camp programs. Thank you for providing such wonderful experiences!" —camp parent
Camp Overview
Nature Explorers Summer Camps offer children ages 4 - 11 an exciting opportunity to explore North Carolina's ecology and natural history on 10+ acres of native gardens, forest, and wetlands at UNC's North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. Our unique camps are designed to foster respect and appreciation for the environment and inspire a sense of wonder through direct experiences with the natural world. Weeklong sessions include hands-on activities, nature hikes, science experiments, games, stories, and craft projects. Our green Education Center provides comfortable indoor classroom space, but the great outdoors will be our place for play, investigation, and discovery.
We've planned 7 sessions for young nature explorers that feature small group sizes (camper-to-staff ratio of 5:1), engaging science learning, and loads of fun. All sessions are taught by experienced environmental educators and supported by trained high school volunteer Counselors-in-Training (CIT). Camp counselors are certified in CPR and First Aid.
Register early as space is limited!
"Camps at the Botanical Garden are truly amazing and very special. If there was a whole summer of them, my son would have done them. Can’t wait until next year!" —camp parent
2013 Camps
View the CAMP BROCHURE for camp descriptions, registration instructions, and policies.
Registration
Registration begins: Monday, February 11 at 9:00 am
Registration is exclusively online!
REGISTER in 3 EASY STEPS
1. Choose your camp: Use the camp descriptions in the camp brochure to choose the camp that matches your child's age level and your schedule.
2. Register Online:
- Access the online registration system via the yellow "Register Now" button above.
- Create a login + password
- Follow prompts to register and pay
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT MEMBERSHIP: Garden members at the "Household" level (not "Individual") are eligible for discounted camp fees. You must complete the membership process before you begin the camp registration process. There is no opportunity to become a member or renew your membership during the online camp registration process. . . .
Download the Membership Form [PDF] to join or renew your membership. If you have any questions about your membership status, please contact Allison Essen: essen 'at' email.unc.edu or 919-962-0522.
3. Submit Required Forms: You will receive an email confirmation and a set of forms after completing the online registration process. Print the attached required forms, fill out, and submit to the NCBG immediately. The NCBG reserves the right to cancel your registration if these forms are not submitted by the due date, May 1, 2013. Your child cannot attend camp unless we receive these forms. You may also download the forms below:
REQUIRED RELEASE FORMS
Note: these forms are not registration forms. Submit these forms AFTER you have received a registration confirmation e-mail.
Scholarships
The Garden offers limited need-based scholarships to those who could not otherwise participate in camp. To apply for a scholarship, please complete and submit the 2013 Camp Scholarship Application. Scholarship applications must be received by March 15. Scholarship recipients will be notified by March 20. Please contact Elisha Taylor with questions.
Donate to the NATURE EXPLORERS SCHOLARSHIP FUND! Please help give all children the opportunity to experience summer camp and the wonders of nature! Donate online now: http://giving.unc.edu/gift/bot (select "Nature Explorers Scholarships for Children" in the select-a-fund window).
Teen Counselors-in-Training (CIT)
The North Carolina Botanical Garden welcomes teen volunteers to serve as assistants to camp counselors during Nature Explorers Summer Camp. CITs help with set-up and clean-up; after care; preparing crafts and projects; and engaging children during nature hikes, games, crafts, and hands-on activities. CITs participate in a required orientation and training in early June. Applicants must be rising 9 - 12 graders (or 15 years of age) and be able to assist with at least 2 weeks of camp. Being a CIT is a great opportunity to fulfill high school service-learning hour requirements and gain experience in environmental education!
To apply, please complete and submit the 2013 CIT Application by April 12. The Camp Director will review applications and interview finalists at the end of April. Please contact Elisha Taylor with questions.
Last updated by Laura Cotterman on February 12, 2013 at 02:08:44 pm.
