SUMMER CAMP 2024 is HERE! Have fun OUTSIDE – learning, exploring, and discovering with us!
We are pleased to offer a variety of nature-themed Summer Camps for children ages 3 to 14:
Half Day Camps (Morning or afternoon sessions) Members $160 Public $195
Full Day Camps (9:00 to 4:00PM) Members $260 Public $295
Details and dates for Summer Camps and Nature Play Dates are listed below.
Starting February 1st, registration will be open to MEMBERS ONLY Purchase a FAMILY MEMBERSHIPand enjoy the priority / discounted registration benefits, today.
Birdwatchers Ages 5 to 7 July 8 – 12 9:00 – 12:00PM At Ohio Township
How much better is a hawk’s vision than ours? How fast does a hummingbird fly? Why doesn’t a woodpecker get a headache?
We’ll learn all about our feathered friends & see if our “owl eyes” can find any as we explore trails and habitats around Ohio Township Community Park.
Mined Craft Ages 8 to 11 July 15 – 19 1:00 – 4:00PM At Ohio Township
Experience Minecraft in real life at Ohio Township Nature Center!
Spend time outside while learning all about your favorite game. You’ll get to see the world of Minecraft come alive while we try different building materials, hunt for rare minerals and ores, and learn about the many creatures found both in the game and the real world. Who knows, you might even find the hidden chest of diamonds!
All skill levels are welcome. A gaming device is not required.
Wildflower ID and crafting Ages 8 to 11 July 22 – 26 9:00AM – Noon At Ohio Township
Wildflowers are often overlooked, but they are some of the most powerful and beautiful parts of our natural world. They can heal, brighten, feed and clothe us, and in this camp, we will do it all! Learn to identify some of the most common wildflowers here in western PA, how to create healthy teas or healing salves from their parts, and use them in art.
Little Explorers – SOLD OUT Ages 3 – 5 (must be bathroom independent) June 10 – 14 9:00 – 11:30AM At Ohio Township
Join us for a week of fun and discovery! Each day we will explore a different nature-themed topic, such as plants, animals, and insects, through games, crafts, and stories. Campers will also enjoy daily hikes, as well as free exploration and play time in the forest and at the playground.
Little Explorers – SOLD OUT Ages 3 – 5 (must be bathroom independent) July 8 – 12 9:30AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Join us for a week of fun and discovery! Each day we will explore a different nature-themed topic, such as plants, animals and insects, through games, crafts and stories. Campers will also enjoy daily hikes, as well as free exploration and play time in our meadow and outdoor classroom.
Little Explorers – SOLD OUT Ages 3 – 5 (must be bathroom independent) July 29 – August 2 9:30AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Join us for a week of fun and discovery! Each day we will explore a different nature-themed topic, such as plants, animals and insects, through games, crafts and stories. Campers will also enjoy daily hikes, as well as free exploration and play time in our meadow and outdoor classroom.
Mammal Mania – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 June 10 – 14 9:00 – 12:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
I am warm, fuzzy, and always on the lookout for food…what am I? Kids will learn all about the native mammals around us, and the unique and remarkable traits that help them succeed in their environment!
Campers will delve into related topics such as predators vs. prey, mammal homes and habitats, camouflage, and tracks, scat and other signs.
Creepy Crawlies – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 June 10 – 14 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Look closer at the not-so-creepy crawlies living at the Nature Center! At this camp, we will discuss insects and how they impact the environment. Some can fly, some have 100 legs, and others live underwater- all waiting to be discovered at Fern Hollow!
We will look for and collect bugs, use identification practices, and build terrariums to discover these animals’ role in ecosystems. Practice using magnifying glasses, microscopes, bug nets, and more to discover who’s who of the insect world!
SOLD OUT Bring your lunch and stay all day! June 10 – 14 Full Day Camp includes Mammal Mania AM Session + Creepy Crawlies PM session
Mammal Mania Ages 5 to 7 June 10 – 14 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
I am warm, fuzzy, and always on the lookout for food…what am I? Kids will learn all about the native mammals around us, and the unique and remarkable traits that help them succeed in their environment!
Campers will delve into related topics such as predators vs. prey, mammal homes and habitats, camouflage, and tracks, scat and other signs.
LUNCH TIME *Creepy Crawlies PM session will follow after lunch break.
Creepy Crawlies Ages 5 to 7 June 10 – 14 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Look closer at the not-so-creepy crawlies living at the Nature Center! At this camp, we will discuss insects and how they impact the environment. Some can fly, some have 100 legs, and others live underwater- all waiting to be discovered at Fern Hollow!
We will look for and collect bugs, use identification practices, and build terrariums to discover these animals’ role in ecosystems. Practice using magnifying glasses, microscopes, bug nets, and more to discover who’s who of the insect world!
Registration fee: Public $295 Members $260
*During our full-day camps, campers will have a lunchtime break from 12 pm- 1pm. This is a time for campers to wind down before their afternoon camp with lunch and supervised free time. Please make sure your camper packs a full, peanut-free, lunch along with a reusable water bottle.
World Travelers – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 June 17 – 21 9:00 – 12:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Grab your passport and travel the world from Fern Hollow Nature Center! Discover the animals living on the African Safari, learn more about the world’s deserts, and explore polar worlds.
Who lives in the deepest parts of the ocean? What animals live on the tops of trees? Find out at Fern Hollow!
Grossology – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 June 17 – 21 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Are you ready for a summer adventure like no other? Join us for our Grossology Camp, where young scientists can explore the fascinating world of all things gross!
From the science of scat to the secrets of slime, this camp is perfect for curious kids who love to get their hands dirty.
SOLD OUT Bring your lunch and stay all day! June 17 – 21 Full Day Camp includes World Travelers AM Session + Grossology PM session
World Travelers Ages 5 to 7 June 17 – 21 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Grab your passport and travel the world from Fern Hollow Nature Center! Discover the animals living on the African Safari, learn more about the world’s deserts, and explore polar worlds.
Who lives in the deepest parts of the ocean? What animals live on the tops of trees? Find out at Fern Hollow!
LUNCH TIME *Grossology PM session will follow after lunch break.
Grossology Ages 5 to 7 June 17 – 21 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Are you ready for a summer adventure like no other? Join us for our Grossology Camp, where young scientists can explore the fascinating world of all things gross!
From the science of scat to the secrets of slime, this camp is perfect for curious kids who love to get their hands dirty.
Registration fee: Public $295 Members $260
*During our full-day camps, campers will have a lunchtime break from 12 pm- 1pm. This is a time for campers to wind down before their afternoon camp with lunch and supervised free time. Please make sure your camper packs a full, peanut-free, lunch along with a reusable water bottle.
Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Wonders – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 June 24 – 28 9:00 – 12:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Are you ready to go on a prehistoric adventure this summer? Our dinosaur-themed summer camp is perfect for young explorers who are fascinated by these mighty creatures of the past.
At dinosaur camp, kids will have the opportunity to learn about the various species of dinosaurs that once roamed the earth.
We will participate in fun and educational activities such as excavating fossils, creating our own dinosaur models, and even going on a simulated dinosaur dig!
Whether you’re a budding paleontologist or simply love dinosaurs, all are welcome to discover the prehistoric world!
Art In Nature – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 July 15 – 19 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp combines art and nature, inspiring campers to explore and create using natural materials. With experienced instructors, campers will learn to appreciate the natural world while fostering creativity and imagination through a variety of mediums.
Our program includes educational activities on conservation and sustainability, helping campers develop a sense of responsibility for the planet. Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and nature!
Frontier Camp – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 July 15 – 19 1:00AM – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Have you ever wondered what life was like in western PA in the 1800’s?
Come and learn what life was like for all children when our area was considered the frontier of America. Learn about toys and games played by both pioneer and first nations children, what treats were like in a time before ice cream and candy shops and what chores children were expected to help with.
SOLD OUT Bring your lunch and stay all day! July 15 – 19 Full Day Camp includes Art in Nature AM Session + Frontier PM session
Art In Nature Ages 5 to 7 July 15 – 19 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp combines art and nature, inspiring campers to explore and create using natural materials. With experienced instructors, campers will learn to appreciate the natural world while fostering creativity and imagination through a variety of mediums.
Our program includes educational activities on conservation and sustainability, helping campers develop a sense of responsibility for the planet. Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and nature!
LUNCH TIME *Frontier Camp PM session will follow after lunch break.
Frontier Camp Ages 5 to 7 July 15 – 19 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Have you ever wondered what life was like in western PA in the 1800’s?
Come and learn what life was like for all children when our area was considered the frontier of America. Learn about toys and games played by both pioneer and first nations children, what treats were like in a time before ice cream and candy shops and what chores children were expected to help with.
Registration fee: Public $295 Members $260
*During our full-day camps, campers will have a lunchtime break from 12 pm- 1pm. This is a time for campers to wind down before their afternoon camp with lunch and supervised free time. Please make sure your camper packs a full, peanut-free, lunch along with a reusable water bottle.
Little Sprouts – SOLD OUT Ages 5 to 7 August 5 – 9 9:00 – 12:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Get up and grow with this weeklong camp focused on gardening!
We’ll take a look at a plant’s life cycle and what they need to thrive, the importance and fun of growing our own food, and get hands-on experience helping in our garden here at Fern Hollow.
Soil to Plate Ages 6 – 9 August 5 – 9 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Have you ever wondered where your food comes from? Or where it goes when we are done with it? Come learn the life cycle of veggies at Fern Hollow! We will be learning all about food, how fruits and vegetables are grown, and where they go!
Discover what plants need to grow by helping sow, water, and harvest fruits and veggies at the Fern Hollow community garden.
Join us for a healthy harvest meal and learn about the world of composting.
Predator vs Prey Ages 8 to 11 June 24 – 28 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Come and play the ultimate game of survival!
This camp will explore the adaptations that animals have made to survive and thrive in the natural world.
Campers will get to challenge themselves by playing as either the predator or prey, using adaptations by the animals we will study over the course of the week.
Art in Nature – SOLD OUT Ages 8 to 11 July 22 – 26 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp combines art and nature, inspiring campers to explore and create using natural materials. With experienced instructors, campers will learn to appreciate the natural world while fostering creativity and imagination through a variety of mediums.
Our program includes educational activities on conservation and sustainability, helping campers develop a sense of responsibility for the planet. Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and nature!
SOLD OUT Bring your lunch and stay all day! July 22 – 26 Full Day Camp includes Art in Nature AM Session + Archery PM session
Art in Nature Ages 8 to 11 July 22 – 26 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp combines art and nature, inspiring campers to explore and create using natural materials. With experienced instructors, campers will learn to appreciate the natural world while fostering creativity and imagination through a variety of mediums.
Our program includes educational activities on conservation and sustainability, helping campers develop a sense of responsibility for the planet.
Join us for an unforgettable summer of art and nature!
LUNCH TIME *Archery PM session will follow after lunch break.
Archery Ages 8 to 11 July 22 – 26 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp offers an exciting archery program with experienced instructors teaching proper technique, safety, and equipment handling.
Campers practice their skills on our state-of-the-art range and compete in fun games and challenges, building confidence, focus, and perseverance.
Join us for a summer of skill-building, personal growth, and fun!
Registration fee: Public $295 Members $260
*During our full-day camps, campers will have a lunchtime break from 12 pm- 1pm. This is a time for campers to wind down before their afternoon camp with lunch and supervised free time. Please make sure your camper packs a full, peanut-free, lunch along with a reusable water bottle.
Watershed Wonders Ages 8 – 11 July 29 – August 2 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center / Walker Park
Explore the fascinating world of plants and animals of the watershed ecosystem! Watershed Warriors has the perfect balance of outdoor exploration, creative activities, and scientific investigation.
Learn all about the animals that live in the creek and how people contribute to healthy ecosystems while we hike, explore, and discover the beauty and complexity of nature!
Fern Hollow educators will guide campers through topics such as buoyancy, erosion, and streamwater health while emphasizing the importance of YOU! With plenty of opportunities for fun, learning, and making new friends, Watershed Warriors is the ultimate summer camp experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sign up today and get ready to make a splash!
This Session will be held at Fern Hollow on Monday and Tuesday, and at Walker Park on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Sustainability Stars- SOLD OUT Ages 8 to 11 August 12 – 16 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Join us for an eco-friendly experience in sustainability at Fern Hollow Nature Center!
Learn how to make a positive impact on the environment while participating in box house building, reusable crafts, and cooking yummy treats made from fresh ingredients plucked straight from the Fern Hollow garden.
This summer, we welcome back our famous trashion show, the reusable, recyclable, catwalk of wearable crafts!
Bring your lunch and stay all day! – SOLD OUT August 12 – 16 Full Day Camp includes Archery AM Session + Sustainability PM session
Archery – SOLD OUT Ages 8 to 11 August 12 – 16 9:00AM – Noon At Fern Hollow Nature Center
Our summer camp offers an exciting archery program with experienced instructors teaching proper technique, safety, and equipment handling.
Campers practice their skills on our state-of-the-art range and compete in fun games and challenges, building confidence, focus, and perseverance.
Join us for a summer of skill-building, personal growth, and fun!
LUNCH TIME *Sustainability PM session will follow after lunch break.
Sustainability – SOLD OUT Ages 8 to 11 August 12 – 16 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
We’re excited to offer an eco-friendly experience for campers interested in learning about sustainability and positively impacting the environment!
We will engage in activities, including a trashion show, box house building, reusable crafts, and making delicious treats using ingredients from the Fern Hollow garden.
We will use recycled materials and natural alternatives to be inspired to make positive changes in our daily lives that will have a lasting impact on the environment.
Registration fee: Public $295 Members $260
*During our full-day camps, campers will have a lunchtime break from 12 pm- 1pm. This is a time for campers to wind down before their afternoon camp with lunch and supervised free time. Please make sure your camper packs a full, peanut-free, lunch along with a reusable water bottle.
STEM Science Hands-On Camp Ages 12 to 14 July 8 – 12 1:00 – 4:00PM At Fern Hollow Nature Center
With a focus on science, technology, engineering, and math, this camp offers a wide range of hands-on activities and experiments that will challenge and inspire a budding scientist.
Test your hypothesis with chemistry experiments, build rockets, and explore the world of physics and geology in a new and exciting way.
Our STEM-related summer camp is the perfect opportunity for curious and ambitious minds to explore, learn, and have fun!
Nature Playdates Come play with us! Weekly FREE playdates will take place in our Natural Outdoor Classroom Wednesdays, June 12 – August 14th from 11:00AM to 1:00PM. All ages are welcome to attend however, these are best suited for our preschool and early elementary friends. There wil be no fee and no registration will be required. Donations are always appreciated.