Summer Nature Day Camp
Nature Camp
Making plans for the summer? Be sure to include Summer Nature Day Camp! Youngsters under the age of 14 disappear into the woods and wetlands of Portland as they explore nature under the guidance of experienced staff. Themes for each session are only a catalyst as this child-directed camp has few limits.
Staff
Camp staff have experience with environmental education curricula, wilderness philosophy, and child management techniques. PP&R runs an extensive background check for each individual on a yearly basis. Staff are all certified in CPR and first aid as part of their yearly training.
Groups
Groups of campers are led by two qualified staff and one trained assistant with a maximum of 12 campers. Groups are arranged by age: ages 4-6 (Rockin' Robins), ages 5-6, ages 7-8 year, ages 9-12, and ages 11-13 (Raven Tribe).
Behavior
All campers must behave in a manner which respects the rights and safety of others. Camp staff reserves the right to dismiss students from the program without a refund if their behavior becomes a problem.
Hours of Camp
Rockin’ Robins (ages 4-6)..9am-1pm (M-Th)
Nature Day Camp................ 9am-3pm
Morning and Afternoon care may be available. Please read Summer Nature Day Camp After Care for all the details.
Tuition for a week of camp
Rockin’ Robins Nature Camp..........$145
Nature Day Camp.............................. $220
Partial scholarships are available. Scholarship Application.
Withdrawl Policy
Withdrawals before June 1 will be fully refunded except for a $10 administrative fee. Campers withdrawing after June 1 and up to 10 business days before the camp session begins will receive a 50% tuition refund. There are no refunds within 10 business days before the camp session begins. Changes from one nature camp session to another remain free.
Special Assistance
Children of all abilities and interests are welcome to participate in our programs. If your child requires special assistance to participate, please contact the Environmental Education Office.
A completed Health Form is required for all campers to participate. Please fill it out the form. If an item does not apply please write "N/A". Print and sign the form. Bring with you to the first day of camp.
- Have more than one child attending camp? Fill out the information that is the same for both children, then SAVE your work to use for both forms!
- Have a child attending more than one week? SAVE the document after filling it out, so you can print an additional copy!
Session descriptions
Ages 4–6
Rockin’ Robins
Explore the forest through hands-on activities, nature games, art, stories, fantasy, and unstructured time in nature. Come and play!
*NOTE: Camp runs Mon-Thu, 9am-1pm
Ages 5–6
Antennae Antics
Imagine the world from a bug’s eye view! Catch insects and see them up-close, studying their anatomy and habitats. Create your own bug characters through natural art projects and stories.
Coyote Pups
Become a child of the woods! Immerse yourself in stories and legends of NW Native traditions. Enjoy crafts, games, and walks through the forest on your exploration of native lore.
Forest Fantasy
Discover the myths and legends of magic in the forest. Let your imagination soar as we build fairy houses, play magical games, and create mystical crafts.
Habitat Detectives: Explore the unique habitat of the forests, wetlands, meadows, or creeks. Follow tracks and other animal signs to discover the many interactions of wildlife.
Ages 7–8
Wet & Wild
Explore aquatic habitats by looking at the science of water quality through creek walks and pond dips. Stumble upon the creatures that live in the waterways and the surrounding habitats.
Super Scouts
Walk like a fox, hear like a deer, and put on your eagle eyes! Decipher the secrets of the animals as they teach you how to move through the forest without detection.
Talisman Tales
Unearth mysteries from the treetops down to the ground by exploring ancient stories. Adopt an animal guide whose skills will teach you awareness and lead you on magical adventures.
Bird Brains
Make a new friend! Discover winged creatures around every corner as you imitate bird calls and see who answers back. Start your life list while you discover ways to become part of the avian community.
Ages 9–12
Animal Trackers
Decode the secrets of the animal kingdom and learn to imitate adaptations for survival. Embark on a journey of discovery, by learning native lore and sharpening your observation skills.
Eco Zoom
See the world in a brand new way! Use cameras, binoculars, and magnifying grasses to change your point of view. Capture your observations in your own nature journal.
Wizard Quest
Journey through the forest as you embark on a quest for nature’s magic. Concoct a healing salve, create magical staffs, and let the forest weave its spells of enchantment as you traverse the trails.
Wilderness Survivor
How would you survive if you were lost in the woods? Work together to meet this challenge and learn wayfinding skills, build shelters, and identify edible and medicinal plants.
Ages 11–13
Raven Tribe
An extreme camp experience for campers who have attended camp at least 3 summers. There will be a balance of hiking (campers must be able to hike 4-6 miles in one day) navigation skills (both topographic and urban – including using TriMet during the Hoyt Arboretum week) and group activities. Co-create this experience with fellow tribe members and learn leadership skills!