Summer Camps 2023
If full, please put your child on waitlist as sometimes we open more spots! We also post on FB.
Dear Parents,
As you all may know, we have endured financial hardships since the pandemic started. We are thankful for all the supporters throughout the pandemic that have made donations and donated supplies and food for our animals. Equally important, we are appreciative of our supporters who offered words of encouragement, understanding, and empathy....But the most important way you showed us your support, is by registering your children in our programs!! This was the fuel that kept us going and the confirmation that we are indeed an invaluable resource to our community! Thank you!
Luckily, the pandemic is not as severe as it once was, but nevertheless still here. For this reason, we will continue to keep our Covid practices in place to provide the safest possible programs. Please note that our prices have increased to continue to meet the high standards for the safety of your children, our staff, and animals (and a bit of inflation). We thank you for your understanding along with the current cancellation policies.
Sincerely,
Eco Adventures
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2022-2023
*If the need arises to cancel a registration, no refunds will be given at this time. However, you can change to a different camp BASED ON AVAILABILITY OR a credit will be issued for future programs. Please note, there may be a difference in price.
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*There is a $25 cancellation/charges/admin fee. If you cancel less than 3 weeks before the camp, there is a $50.
*If it is less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds. Two weeks before, you lose half the value of the camp credit as you have taken up an eligible spot. If we are able to fill your spot, (on a waitlist) we will not take ½ your credit and only a $25 cancellation fee will apply. cancellation/charges/ admin fee. If you already have credit, the $50 fee will be taken out of your credit. If you miss the week - no credit or refunds are given. We thank you for your understanding.
- Make ups vs Credit: Eye for an Eye rule: If your child is sick or needs to miss a day of camp/class, they can make-up the day on another day of camp/class and throughout the school year provided we have space availability. This is not credit to your account and must be used for the same program.
Requirements for redeeming Covid Credit:
*If you have credit as a result of COVID cancellations 2020-21, you may use credit for the following programs:
Feeding Frenzies (1 hr private tours)
One day camps throughout the school year
After School Programs
Homeschooling Programs
Pre-k classes
Birthday parties
Jungle Express/Jungle Plays
Special Events such as Earth Day Event if applicable
Summer camps seasons and future camps
Credit expires within 3 years of cancellation date.
*There are a limited amount of credit spaces per camp. First- Come -First Serve basis. Please sign up by January in order to secure your spot with credit.
* Please note the camp may not be the same price and you may owe a balance. Discounts do not apply to credit except sibling discounts. Credit cannot be refunded and "make up days" will be given instead.
*Procedure for signing up for camps with credit:
Please let us know if you used credit for any program so we can check your account
Email us the name of your child(ren) and what camps you would like to use credit for this year. We will email you back with any remaining balances you have or if you owe as well as confirmation on registration by February 15th. First come first serve as credit spaces are limited.
*Camp listings and info on www.ecoadventures.org/summercamps
Inclement Weather cancellation:
Should there be any camp closings due to weather, you must make up the day within the 2022 camp season or during the following school year day camps. Please note this is NOT credit. It is a CAMP MAKE-UP day and it is based on space availability. Please email us to inquire.
Dear Parents,
We are pleased to announce that we are ready for yet another successful camp season during the ongoing pandemic. Eco Adventures will be operating under MD Youth Camp Association and CDC guidelines to provide a safe and illness preventative environment for all participants. We feel, that we have enacted a plan that not only ensures the safety and well-being of our employees and participants but also allows for plenty of enrichment and fun for all campers.
UPDATED 5/26
IMPORTANT PROTOCOL AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES WE ARE TAKING TO ENSURE A SAFE HEALTHY FACILITY:
1. Eco Adventures will continue to have small groups that are age appropriate.
2. All staff and volunteers ages 16 and up will be vaccinated. We also strongly encourage children to get vaccinated.
3. Masks are now optional but can change at any time. We are still social distancing.
4. The facility will be thoroughly disinfected daily with Microban.
5. Any child running a fever or showing signs of illness will not be admitted unless there is a negative Covid test results. Masks will be required with any child showing signs of illness.
6. All persons entering Eco Adventures will be required to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before entry, which we will provide.
8. Hand washing will take place numerous times a day, in addition to other sanitizing procedures with several administrative staff to supervise sanitation and safety procedures.
9. We have additional ventilation, HEPA filters in all the rooms, and open doors for fresh air throughout the day.
10. We have several areas to spread out to both indoors and outdoors for your safest summer camp option.
* Please note this may change at any time based on the pandemic.
We are confident that Eco Adventures has is taking every step to offer you and your child the safest camp experience during these unprecedented times. Eco Adventures will continue to monitor the situation and stay abreast of any and all changes and recommendations from the CDC and Association of American Camps. Feel confident that we at Eco Adventures take the safety and well-being of your children as a priority. Please fee free to email us with questions or schedule a tour of our facility. Thank you for trusting us with your children.
Sincerely,
Mei Len Sanchez- Barr and Dr. Brady Barr
Owners/Directors
ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com
CAMP 2023 Questions and Answers:
What are the new safety guidelines you will have in order to keep the children safe?
Eco Adventures will be operating under strict CDC guidelines, MD Department of Health, Youth Day Camp Act, as well as American Camp Association directives, to provide a safe and illness preventative environment for all participants. We feel that we have enacted a plan that not only ensures the safety and well-being of our employees and participants, but also allows for plenty of enrichment and fun for all campers.
What are some COVID protocols you have in place?
- As of 5/22 no temp checks are required or pre-screening health questionnaire.
- Social distancing will be enforced in a competitive, but fun manner.
- The first station will be stating the rules and guidelines and fun competition and games.
- According to MD Youth Camp Assoc, masks are optional.
- The facility will be thoroughly disinfected daily and sprayed with 24 hr Mircroban.
- All persons entering Eco Adventures will be required to use alcohol based hand sanitizer/wash hands immediately and also to wash hands before they leave.
- Hand washing will take place numerous times a day, in addition to other sanitizing procedures. Social distancing: We will continue to stay 2-3 ft apart from each other. Instructors/staff will be constantly reminding kids and having fun challenges and ways to encourage SD. * Please note this can change at any time.
How will you deal with the extreme heat/inclement weather, etc ?
- We will have tents in the field and water coolers will be placed outside for water replenishment.
- Each station outside will have coverings and places to sit/rest in the shade or to get away from rain./sun We are prepared for rain or shine.
- Children will be required to carry water bottles and a cap/hat is recommended. Staff will be asking campers to hydrate after each station and has been first aid trained in identifying symptoms of dehydration and heat stroke.
- Should there be an extreme heat/code red days/air quality/or thunderstorms, we will take campers inside. Each group will be separated in the same room for the remainder.
- We spray our outdoor areas for ticks. However, it may be an unusual bad tick season due to the mild winter. Please note that it may be helpful to spray your children with bug spray around their legs/shoes and apply sunscreen before camp.
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**What does the Camp staffing look like? What is the capacity per group?
- Eco Adventures will be operating at normal capacity,. This means we can have UP TO 6 groups of up to 15-17 kids. In addition, many stations will have additional supervision depending on the station.
All of our main staff is made up of trained professionals with backgrounds in herpetology, zoology, marine biology, environmental/natural sciences, conservation education, and more and/or hired staff that have had several years of experience working in this field or volunteering with Eco Adventures. We are conducting extra training, and preparations for camps to ensure a safe and fun learning environment.
**There will be at least 1 instructor to up to 17 kids, 1 volunteer/intern, and one Jr. Assistant/volunteer per station. Campers will be rotating to different stations every 30 mins or so. In addition, we have additional staff and interns manning the stations and 3-4 administrative staff supervising the camp and assisting with logistic and sanitation.
**Administrative staff will be indoors/outdoors roaming to help supervise activities as needed and facilitate the logistics of the camp such as drop off and pick up as well as sanitizing.
Does my child need to wear a mask?
Masks are optional and we follow CDC and local guidelines. We ask your child to wear a mask should we see any signs of illness and will need a negative COVID test result in order to return back to camp. Campers can make up the days missed. See cancellation policy.
Can I make changes to camp dates?
As soon as you know, please contact us and we can make the changes provided there is space available. If you cancel a camp for any reason, only credit is available. We ask you notify us at least one week before camp so we can give your spot away.
What is your refund policy?
If you cancel, there are no refunds. There is at least $25 cancellation fee (depending on when you cancel) and receive credit only for the remaining of the money. Keep in mind, you don’t lose the money-you can use the credit on any future program including birthday parties, day or summer camps, private tours, virtual adventures, and feeding frenzies, special events. Should we have to cancel camp for weather reasons, you need to MAKE UP that day on another day in the summer or throughout the year provided there is space availability. You do not get credit for that day- it must be made up. There are exceptions, in which we review on a case by case basis. Credit expires within 2 years.
Please see cancellation policy tab.
How will groupings work?
Children will be pre grouped based on age/gender/ allergies/special needs/friend/sibling requests. This year, we will not group siblings together unless it is absolutely required. From experience, campers have the best time when they are grouped in their own age groups. However, we do understand anxieties etc so please make sure you give us these requests on the form filled out by SAWYER by June 15th.
Friend request can be made well but keep in mind they will probably be in a mixed age group with other requests. If you do not give us grouping requests until the morning of (or after groups are set), there may NOT be a guarantee that your child will be placed with your request as there are MANY considerations when doing groupings. You will receive a “ What to Expect” email with more info upon registration.
How will “drop off and pick up” work?
Drop off for regular camp hours will be staggered starting at 8:40 am-9:15am. Car drop off only. No parking allowed. If there is a special request- please contact us. Please say your goodbyes ahead of time and have children ready so you don’t hold up the line. Upon arrival, please lower the windows so we can talk to you and sign in your child for you.
Pick up will be starting at 3:45-4pm. You will receive a colored piece of paper with your child’s name that corresponds with your child’s group color during morning drop off. We will call campers on walkies for dismissals where Jr. Assistant’s will be escorting them out. If there is someone else picking up your child, we must have a picture of the sign and ID so we know you are authorized for pick up. After 4:10 pm we will take kids inside for after care where an additional fee of $10 will be collected for after care if not prepaid.
What about Before Care and After Care?
Before care starts at 8am and after care begins at 4:00 (with an additional fee) with our administrative staff. Campers will be taken inside to watch a movie. We do not have a large number, thereby we can easily spread them out. Please park and retrieve your child at the front desk.
Extended After care is available until 5:30pm for an extra fee.
What activities will my child be involved in?
Each day campers will participate in daily animal interactions or animal care chores, field games, snack time, crafts or experiments or activities depending on the theme.
Each week, campers will do a fossil dig, water Fun Friday where campers will play “team” Field Games and "Mr. Rob" will come in that afternoon with snow cones. We will also have a fossil/gem dig outside with our ECO Sleuice running. Watermen Oyster Tonging activity where kids can tong for oysters and try to pick up fossils along the way. Guest entertainers/speakers will join in the excitement and fun! From Magicians, scientists, Fidos for Freedom dog trainers, DNR wildlife officers, divers, and more!What about the field trips?
We will conduct certain Specialty Field Trips for ONE DAY CAMPS ONLY and Walk on the Wildside (4 day camp). If there is a short hike field local field trip, we will let parents know.
What about guests entering the building?
No outsider adult guest is allowed to enter the building without permission. Guests for performances will be pre-checked and screened.
What if my child requires medications?
Parents must administer medications that are non-life-threatening. You must have filled out the medication form before camp with a doctor’s signature if they do need to administer during camp. The child must be made aware of their medications and how they are administered- Camp Director will supervise any medication administrations such as epi-pens. We will take a picture of the child with name/medication to put in with the medication.
What about reapplying sunscreen? Can you assist my child?
Yes- we sure can and we ask that the child bring SPRAY sunscreen ONLY. We cannot touch your child with cream one.
Will campers be sharing materials and equipment?
Materials such as (glue, scissors, paintbrushes, balls, etc) will be sanitized with mircoban. Sports equipment will be disinfected daily. Campers will be carrying their backpacks from station to station.
What if my child has general health concerns, behavioral or psychiatric needs?
If your child has special needs that need extra “special attention” whether it is physical or behavioral, we trust that you have made a decision based on your child’s needs to attend camp this year. It is important to let the staff know of any allergies, special needs, or behavioral problems that my child may have BEFORE the camp. If they have a plan in school, you should continue to adhere to the recommendations for the plan during summer. Please note this year due to the restrictions, we do not have the flexibility of adding extra staff to be able to address behavioral or special needs situations. Any serious or consistent behavioral issues will result in parent pick up without a refund.
What forms/waivers will be needed?
You can fill out the forms when you register under your account in Sawyer online.
**A medication administration form is available (if needed)
What about snacks?
Due to COVID restrictions, we ask that parents pack one snack and a lunch. We feel the kids deserve a little cooling off and break from the norm. As a result, we will be providing a daily afternoon "pop" for kids to cool off. Should you not want this, please make sure you pack two snacks. As always, let us know if your child has allergies. for Wizarding World Camp, we will be giving "Butterbeer". Fridays- Mr. Rob will be coming with SNOW CONES!
Are you a peanut-free facility?
We can no longer say we are peanut-free as some of our newest animals eat nuts. However, there will not be any peanuts or tree nuts in areas where children will be. Please let us know of any allergies before camp begins. Snow cones and pops are nut free.
Where will lunches be?
Lunches will be starting at 12:00pm. all outside except for two rotating groups inside each day.
What if someone gets sick during camp or camp ended and someone got diagnosed with COVID? Will the former camper families be notified of illness?
If a child is exhibiting any sign of illness, we will have a separate triage area away from the campers to tend to. We have to be very strict about ANY sign of any illness we will have to call parents right away for pick up. We trust parents will let their child stay home after that should they still exhibit signs of illness no matter how slight. They cannot come back without a negative test result and can make up days later.
If someone is diagnosed with COVID- There will be contact tracing done by the health department. All persons possibly exposed will need to quarantine for at least 5 days according to the CDC. The health officials will decide the next course of action. Since each group of campers will most likely not be with any other groups in close proximity- we hope it would just extend to their group/pod only.
Can children purchase something from the gift shop?
Children will have time at the end of the day on Wednesday to go into the gift shop to make purchases one group at a time. Items are from $.50-$25. Please no piggy bank coins.
Summer Camps -2nd place WINNER -Best Summer Camps-2021!
Experience the Extraordinary!
Each of our award-winning specialty camps are themed and designed to get kids excited about our natural world.. Whether it's providing campers with a once in a lifetime experience with an endangered species, learn new skills from an expert, discover newfound confidence from one of our knowledgeable instructors, or simply make new friends in a safe and stimulating environment. From Animal Caretakers and Training, Marine Biology, Art camp, Out of this World, and even Wizarding Worlds...At Eco Adventures, we believe in kids "doing" not watching. Whether it's through a hands-on encounter with one of our live animal ambassadors, an experience in our simulated rainforest, an activity in our outdoor classrooms, wild crafts, games/competitions, fossil dig, or a demo by visiting scientists...let your child ignite their passion for the outdoors! Let your kids "Go Wild" this summer....
*We will continue to follow all COVID safety protocols and we are known as one of the safest camps around! Schedule a tour today.
IMPORTANT CAMP INFORMATION AT A GLANCE
(Scroll down at the end for more details)
CAMP HOURS:
*All camps are 9am-4pm
*Before Care begins at 8 AM and Aftercare ends at 5 PM ($13 per day, or $125 for both BC/AC per week )
* Extended after care is available until 5:30pm for an extra fee, please inquire (not online option)
*There is a one time calendar year "membership" (or yearly registration fee) of $25
AGE GROUPS:
Campers will be divided into groups: Nature Nuts (ages 5-6) Trailblazers (ages 7-8) & ECO Explorers (9-11) & Counselors in Training (ages 12+) Each week is different depending on theme. Daily camps are $105 per day unless otherwise noted.
**COVID PROTOCOLS: As of 3/5/22 we are no longer making masks mandatory until further notice. This is OPTIONAL. We are currently waiting for summer camp 2023 guidelines by Youth Camps Associations of Maryland so please note this can change at any moment. We will continue to social distance whenever possible. We will continue to have HEPA filters, extra ventilation, and sanitize throughout the day. All our staff and volunteer over age 16 are vaccinated. We recommend campers get vaccinated if possible especially now that mask wearing is optional.
DISCOUNTS:
**New registration system "Sawyer" takes off 6% additional sibling discounts automatically at check out. Sibling discounts only apply when two (or more) children are being registered for the exact same class at the exact same time. Sibling discounts do not apply when you register for different classes.
**Sign up for 9 weeks of camp $375/week * NO other discounts apply- email to set up.
*For any question please email: ecoadventureslydia@gmail.com
Let your kids "Go Wild" this summer at Eco Adventures!
Fun in the Sun Camp!
June 12th-16th
Full Week $420 or daily $105 per day
Fun In The Sun June 20th-24th Full Week $375 or daily $95 per day
YIPPEEE.....School is finally out!! Start off your summer with a bang and see why we won the "Best Summer Camp Award!" Soak in the summer sun and unwind from a busy school year at Eco. Everyday will include exciting games, crafts, activities and best yet…animals! Splash around in our sluice sprinkler, dig at our dig site and kick back and relax while we explore nature together.
Eco Sampler Camp Weeks
ECO I: June 19th-23rd & ECO 1.5 July 10-14 & ECO 2: August 21st-25th
Can’t choose just one camp, or want to try out a new theme? This week is the perfect week to explore all we have to offer and each day is a different theme. Each day will include crafts, and games to go along with each theme and guest speakers or guest entertainers, and of course- our one of a kind animal interactions! Sign up now so you don’t miss out on this fun-filled week!
Day Themes: Order Subject to Change
ECO SAMPLER I- $420 per week The Amazing Race, Spy Camp, Wizarding World, Marine Biology, Jurassic World
ECO SAMPLER 1.5 -
ECO SAMPLER 2- $435 per week Marine Bio: Into the Deep, Animal Caretakers & Training, Wild Wild West: Gold Rush!, Treasure Quest, Fang Fest
Eco Sampler 1, 1.5 & 2 Themes:
NEW: The Amazing Race: Great Outdoors
Marine Biology: Into the Deep
Spy Camp
Animal Caretakers & Training
Wizarding World
Wild Wild West: Gold Rush!
NEW: Marine Biology: Ocean Exploration
Treasure Quest
NEW: Jurassic World
NEW: Fang Fest!
Weekly Themed Summer Camps 2023
Indy Anna Jones: The Crystal Skull
June 26th-30th
$420
Campers will have to prove their bravery, work together, use their problem solving skills, and trust their instincts, to succeed in this Temple Challenge. You see...long, long, ago, pieces of a mysterious and ancient map were hidden all over the world, and in this camp...it is our job to find them. The famous professors, Dr. Indy, Dr. Anna and Dr. Jones will assist our quest, and uncover the clues that lead to treasure… and the long lost and cursed Eco Skull. Hold on tight in this camp, because there’s sure to be lots of surprises along the way, and rumor has it- there are plenty of booby traps and creepy live animals guarding the treasure. All week long participants will learn about foreign cultures, dig in Eco’s “archeology” dig site, meet live animals from all over the world, follow clues, decipher mysteries, solve riddles, use decoders, read hieroglyphics, and attempt to avoid harrowing booby traps as they search for the lost treasure and crystal skull. Dust off your whip, find your Indy hat, and get your adventure on, to uncover the secrets of the Crystal Skull.
Animal Caretakers & Training
June 26th-30
$420
If working with animals has been your dream, then this is the camp for you! In this really popular offering, campers will get to experience different jobs that relate to working with our animal friends. Learn what it takes to be a veterinarian, taking care of sick or injured animals, or a park ranger, watching over wild beasts. How about learning about being a biologist? Entomologist? Marine biologist? A herpetologist? What about any other -ologist that calls to you. And of course, we couldn’t skip talking about being a zookeeper. Campers will learn all the ins and outs of working with animals up close and personal, as experts in the field will pull back the curtain and show participants what's really involved in these exciting careers. There will be plenty of hands-on animal interactions all along the way, even animal care chores such as bathing a tortoise or a hedgehog, making toys for a kinkajou, and feeding gators and crocs. Sign up today and get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
Art on the Wildside
July 3rd & July 6th
$105 each day
Are you ready to throw caution to the wind and unleash your artsy side...because It's Art on the Wildside at Eco Adventures!! In this popular camp, participants will get to paint with our pythons, craft with our chameleons, and sculpt with our parrots! If it’s wild and it's art, it's fair game. And this isn't just boring old crayon camp, heck no, participants will be utilizing watercolors, pastels, sketching, 3-D sculpting, and more to create their masterpieces. Eco's live animals will give the artists up close and personal hands-on encounters, and be the perfect inspirations to get our art on! Color your summer crazy with the wildest art camp ever!
NEW! Jurassic World
July 5th-7th
$250
This camp is an oldie but goody literally... because it's 145 million years in the making...and too good to be true! That's right...Eco is bringing dinosaur times back for fun and adventure in this super popular camp!! Right off the bat campers will be briefed on their perilous Jurassic Mission, and all the adventures that lie ahead in their fossil quest. The fun takes place in our fog shrouded rainforest, where campers will search for prehistoric animals and real live fossils as they attempt to avoid pitfalls and complete their mission. And, as if it couldn't get any better...wait for it....that's right...campers will get to experience Eco Adventures’ legendary outdoor “DINO DIG PIT”, filled with ancient fossils that they have to unearth! Rumor even has it that successful searchers get to take home their very own prehistoric shark tooth! Sign up now to release your inner dinosaur!
Special Note: No old fossils need to apply....this camp is for KIDS!!
NEW! The Amazing Race: Great Outdoors
July 10th-14th
$420
Join us for the ultimate challenge---The Amazing Race! During this fast paced adventure, campers will work in teams to solve puzzles and “trek around the world”. We will determine who's brave enough to wrestle a gator, tame a snake, learn some survival skills, or even eat a cricket? YUCK! It's all in fun, and crucial to racing to glory in this Eco Adventure. Campers will race around the world, taking pit stops to complete challenges and obstacles all the while finding clues which are vital to proceed. Kids will need to bring their A game as they navigate the great outdoors, test their wits, puzzle solving abilities, and demonstrate teamwork to solve the final puzzle!! Hurry ….because the clock is ticking to see which team finishes first! Quick!! Sign up now before the race is over!
Marine Biology
July 10th-14th
$420
This unique camp allows kids to dive into the ocean where they will “Sea” a whole new world full of color, sea creatures, and magic! This BRAND NEW sea camp is focusing on creativity, imagination, and engineering countless ways kids can assist our seas! The journey begins in our own Chesapeake Bay where we will learn about wetlands, tong for oysters, and even dissect an oyster with a real pearl! Campers might even come across a pirate along the way...they love to hang out in the Bay! Young imagineers will also get to create their own marine deep water creatures and learn about SHARKS! Campers will have plenty of hands-on opportunities as they hop around the world and explore sea stars, sea urchins and crabs from the clear blue waters of the Caribbean…learn about whales and sea turtles from the Hawaiian Islands…and end up in the Great Barrier Reef with tiger sharks galore! Also on task is a dive into our fossil dig to uncover ancient marine invertebrates and real shark teeth, races with hermit crabs, and a mock animal rescue with a marine biologist! Lastly, learn about famous explorers, ships, and submarines they used to discover the unchartered waters! Salt is in the air this week, so get ready to dive into the clear, blue sea.
***SOLD OUT*** Animal Caretakers & Training 1
July 17th-21st
$420
**Waitlist Available**
If working with animals has been your dream, then this is the camp for you! In this really popular offering, campers will get to experience different jobs that relate to working with our animal friends. Learn what it takes to be a veterinarian, taking care of sick or injured animals, or a park ranger, watching over wild beasts. How about learning about being a biologist? Entomologist? Marine biologist? A herpetologist? What about any other -ologist that calls to you. And of course, we couldn’t skip talking about being a zookeeper. Campers will learn all the ins and outs of working with animals up close and personal, as experts in the field will pull back the curtain and show participants what's really involved in these exciting careers. There will be plenty of hands-on animal interactions all along the way, even animal care chores such as bathing a tortoise or a hedgehog, making toys for a kinkajou, and feeding gators and crocs. Sign up today and get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
NEW! Galactic Journey: To Infinity & Beyond
July 24th-28th
$420
Blast off into fun with this one of a kind, out there, camp! First stop…astronaut training! Learn to dodge comets, operate tools with space gloves and even design your own spaceship. Next up, jump through wormholes with the “Guardians of the Galaxy” in the deep reaches of space, and even see an alien or two along the way! And... no Eco Adventures’ space journey would be complete without campers learning how to use the FORCE!! That's right, Jedi Masters will explain all the ins and outs of successful use of this powerful tool!! In addition, lightsaber training, history, safety, building, and repair, will all be an important part of this mission. You can never have too much light saber...right!! When campers return to Earth at the end of the week, they will use their training to search for the aliens rumored to be living amongst us!
NOTE: The FORCE can only be used for good in this camp. NO Dark side allowed!!
SOLD OUT! Marine Biology: Ocean Exploration
July 31st- August 4th
$420
This unique camp allows kids to dive into the ocean where they will “Sea” a whole new world full of color, sea creatures, and magic! This BRAND NEW sea camp is focusing on creativity, imagination, and engineering countless ways kids can assist our seas! The journey begins in our own Chesapeake Bay where we will learn about wetlands, tong for oysters, and even dissect an oyster with a real pearl! Campers might even come across a pirate along the way...they love to hang out in the Bay! Young imagineers will also get to create their own marine deep water creatures and learn about SHARKS! Campers will have plenty of hands-on opportunities as they hop around the world and explore sea stars, sea urchins and crabs from the clear blue waters of the Caribbean…learn about whales and sea turtles from the Hawaiian Islands…and end up in the Great Barrier Reef with tiger sharks galore! Also on task is a dive into our fossil dig to uncover ancient marine invertebrates and real shark teeth, races with hermit crabs, and a mock animal rescue with a marine biologist! Lastly, learn about famous explorers, ships, and submarines they used to discover the unchartered waters! Salt is in the air this week, so get ready to dive into the clear, blue sea.
SOLD OUT! Wizarding World: The Chamber of Secrets
August 7th-11th
$420
Calling all returning and first years witches, wizards, and muggles!! There have been strange whispers spreading through Eco about a secret Chamber hidden somewhere in the building! This chamber is rumored to have mystical creatures inside. Wizards will undergo a series of challenges in hopes to find clues left by Dobby the elf as to the location of this chamber! A special reward awaits those that find it!! Wizards in training will be sorted with our talking sorting hat...that will place them in their respective houses. The different houses will be involved in all sorts of friendly competition, such as dueling off, showing your house spirit for the tournament of champions challenge, or puzzle solving abilities! Young wizards and witches will meet some "familiar" creatures like “Trevor the Toad”, meet a dragon and try speaking “parsel tongue” with a giant snake. By the end of the week, all witches and wizards will know just what it takes to cast the perfect spell, how to conjure up a charm, or block an unwanted hex and will have all the clues to find the stone! And of course, in the Great Hall there will be plenty of magical snacks, butterbeer, Bertie Botts every flavor beans (including ear wax and snot), and licorice wands--YUM! Meet a real wizard magician with real magic that will knock your wands off! Get points for your house for the best potions, best chants, and of course… finding the Chamber of Secrets! (Muggles are encouraged to attend!)
SOLD OUT! Animal Caretakers & Training 2
August 14th-18th
$420
**Waitlist Available**
Because this is the most popular camp… we have not one …but two this year!! If working with animals has been your dream, then this is the camp for you! In this really popular offering,campers will get to experience different jobs that relate to working with our animal friends. Learn what it takes to be a veterinarian, taking care of sick or injured animals, or a park ranger, watching over wild beasts. How about learning about being a biologist? Entomologist? Marine biologist? A herpetologist? What about any other -ologist that calls to you. And of course, we couldn’t skip talking about being a zookeeper. Campers will learn all the ins and outs of working with animals up close and personal, as experts in the field will pull back the curtain and show participants what's really involved in these exciting careers. There will be plenty of hands-on animal interactions all along the way, even animal care chores such as bathing a tortoise or a hedgehog, making toys for a kinkajou, and feeding gators and crocs. Sign up today and get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
SOLD OUT! Eco Sampler II 8/21-25th Last week scroll to the top
Kindergarten Camp
August 28th-September 5th (NO Camp 9/4)
$105/day or $355/ any 5 days
End your summer with a sizzle and take advantage of the last week before Kindergarten! Soak in the last bit of summer sun. Instructors will also encourage kids to get ready for kindergarten with fun books, tips on teamwork, kindness, making friends, and listening games teachers may already use. Everyday will include exciting games, crafts, activities and best yet…animals! Bring your bathing suits for our Field Games Days where we have fun with a variety of different water games, and explore our Eco Mining Company water feature where campers can mine for fossils and gold, then cool off with our sluice and sprinklers while cleaning your fossils and gold. *Designed for kindergarten staggered entrance days. Can sign up per day or week.
Specialty Summer Camps
Animal Keeper Apprentice
Every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday in the Summer
Ages 7+
10 AM - 1 PM $85
10 AM - 4 PM $105 Full day on Fridays only
Weekend Dates: 9/2, 3, 4,16,17, 24, 30 & 10/1 9am- 11:30 Ages: 7+ $65
Wonder what it is like to be a zookeeper? Led by one of our animal keepers, this in-depth experience is for the older students who are serious about learning animal husbandry and medical care of animals. Students will get to tour around the facility and learn specific information and needs of our animal collection. Students will get to not only encounter animals in our behind the scenes animal room, but assist with animal care, food prep, training, & cleaning. This is a very hands-on experience like no other! If you want to stay all day and join the water fun- bring your suit and towel and join our campers and play field games, get wet, join the fossil dig and sluice and cool off with a snow cone!
FRIDAYS ONLY FOR ALL DAY.
**Spaces is very limited to five participants per day!! Perfect for aspiring Jr. Assistants
Registration NOW OPEN!! SPACE IS LIMITED! Go...go...go!
"Walk on the Wildside" Field Trip Camp
Starts Tues June 27th-30th
8:30am-3:30pm
$465 Ages 8-17
4 days ONLY
Space is Limited!
Take a breath of fresh air and get ready for some good old fashioned outdoor fun! This week campers will leave civilization and the building behind to take a walk on the wildside and explore the great outdoors. We will get the ins and outs of navigating trails, using a compass, identifying animal tracks, scavenger hunts, crabbing, seining, fishing and more! Campers will venture into nature each day to look for wildlife and bond with nature! Friday afternoon, go back to ECO and cool off with water fun and snow cone treat . Transportation will be provided in the snake van with limited space to 8-12 campers. (depending on Covid)
Sign up now and by the end of the week the kids might not want to come back in from the outdoors!
*Field trips to: KinderFarm Park, Patapsco Stream, Local Severn River, Maritime Museum,
* Can be subject to change
Turtle-tacular Field Trip Camp
July 5th
8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Ages 7+
$120
Campers meet and pick up at Kinder Farm Park
This camp is for the serious turtle lovers! Help naturalists find Painted turtles, Snapping turtles, Mud turtles, and maybe even Box turtles while collecting data such as tagging, weighing, and measuring animals. See the difference first hand between aquatic and terrestrial turtles. Learn about threats to all turtles including our very own Diamondback terrapins and sea turtles. Create turtle art. Then get ready, set, …Go! Who will win in a box turtle race… It’s everything you need to know…so to speak…about those critters with a shell and a beak!
Fossil Beach Trip- St. Leonards
July 6th
8:30AM - 4:30PM
Ages 7+
$120
Join our team of fossil hunting rock hounds as we climb aboard the world-famous Eco Adventures Snake Van!!! Our paleo-campers will head out to the renowned fossil hotspot in St. Leonards Md, where there are more relics than you can shake a stick at! Campers will put their skills to the test, and excavate, uncover, and unearth, fossils from the ancient world of the Chesapeake Bay! Following the fossil dig, campers will get to examine living marine life, by taking part in seining activities. Cooling off in the water at this point is an added bonus! Fossil hunting is hard work and is sure to build up an appetite, so we will be having a delicious BBQ lunch overlooking the Chesapeake! Spaces are limited to 15.
Don’t be an old fossil and miss out on this dynamic camp, sign up right now!!
BBQ Lunch is optional: Hot dogs, chips, watermelon, juice box $5 extra
Sandy Point Field Trip Camp
July 7th
8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Ages 7+
$120
Spend the day outdoors in the Chesapeake Bay! Go on a nature scavenger hunt and look for some forest critters, participate in a beach clean up and catch and identify bay fish while seining in the bay! Then it’s fun in the sun with beach games, sand art, and a picnic lunch!
Camp Policies
Please let us know of any allergies in advance on the form. Must have Doctor's form filled out for any epipens or oral medications. We can only administer life threatening medications. We ask that children with peanut/nut allergies and multiple allergies bring snacks from home. Please note that we do have some animals that eat peanuts/nuts but will not be around any human eating areas. Parents must check the ingredients for that day to make sure it is OK for their child to eat.
Parents MUST notify us upon registration (prior) to the camp if your child has ANY general health concerns, behavioral or psychiatric needs (ADHD, autism, or any physical or behavioral problems), allergies, or any other special requirements so we can be prepared and staffed appropriately. Although we have had experience with some minor special needs, we are not trained professionals. Please note that this high energy camp may not be for everyone. Some of our rotations may switch thirty minutes at a time. Children with difficulties in making transitions, noise, high stimuli, may not respond well to this camp. We recommend to continue school routines/programs with your child: If your child has ADHD medication, a weighted vest, or is in a program at school we recommend you continue the routine.
Failure to do this or improper/unmanageable behavior during camp can result in cancellation of your child's registration WITHOUT a refund as your child has taken up a spot. Thank you for your understanding.
- If you child has medications, a parent must administer them before, during, or after camp as we do not administer medications other than life threatening medications such as epipens.
If your child is exhibiting any cold-like symptoms, nausea, or fever, please keep your child home. If your child is fever/symptom/vomit-free after a full 24 hrs, (and all family members are not sick), he/she may return. If symptoms continue, since we do not know if it is a cold/stomach bug or COVID, we would need for your child to sit out for 5 days from the first sign of symptoms OR bring us negative COVID test results.
If your child or family member has tested positive, please contact us ASAP.
There are no credit/refunds applied to your account but your child can make up the week of camp during the summer season of 2023 if space is available. Please note: there may be a price difference.
Thank you for your understanding and your honesty.
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2023
*If the need arises to cancel a registration, no refunds will be given at this time. However, you can change to a different camp BASED ON AVAILABILITY OR a credit will be issued for future programs. Please note, there may be a difference in price.
*If you have credit as a result of COVID cancellations 2020-21, you may use credit for the following programs:
Feeding Frenzies (1 hr private tours)
One day camps throughout the school year
After School Programs
Homeschooling Programs
Pre-k classes
Birthday parties
Jungle Express/Jungle Plays
Special Events such as Earth Day Event if applicable
Summer camps seasons and future camps
Credit expires 2 years from cancellation date.
*Requirements for redeeming Covid Credit:
*Eye for an Eye rule: If you signed up for a particular camp, we give preference to the campers that signed up for that SAME camp last year to make sure there is room for the camp they desired. If the camp is not offered or dates are not convenient, please contact us.
*Please note the camp may not be the same price and you may owe a balance. Discounts do not apply to credit except sibling discounts.
*There are a limited amount of credit spaces per camp. First- Come -First Serve basis
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*If you cancel, there is a $25 cancellation fee. *If it is less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds.-2nd week 1/2 credit back- $50 cancellation fee. Three weeks before your camp, there is a $50 cancellation or change fee as you were taking up a spot. If you miss a camp, no credit/refunds are given. We thank you for your understanding.
If you have additional credit, the $50 fee will be taken out of your credit. If it is less than 1 week, you lose half the value of the camp credit as you have taken up an eligible spot. If we are able to fill your spot, (on a waitlist) we will not take ½ your credit and only a $50 cancellation fee will apply.
Procedure for signing up for camps:
Please let us know if you used credit for any program so we can check your account
Email us the name of your child(ren) and what camps you would like to use credit for this year. We will email you back with any remaining balances you have or if you owe as well as confirmation. First come first serve as credit spaces are limited.
*Inclement Weather cancellation:
Should there be any camp closings due to weather, you must make up the day within the 2023 camp season or during the following school year day camps. Please note this is NOT credit. It is a CAMP MAKE-UP day and it is based on space availability. Please email us to inquire.
We have a new registration system called Sawyer. There is a $25 one time yearly membership (or registration) fee per child. You must be a member to register for camps.
Registration closes on the Thursday before the week of camp begins. If trying to register for a camp after the Thursday before, please call 410-987-1300 for space availability.
If possible, we ask that you please register at least two weeks in advance so we can make the appropriate staff/materials/supplies preparations. We do take last minute registrations but know that it is based on space availability.
*If you cancel, there is a $25 cancellation fee. If you cancel within 1-3 weeks before your camp, there is a $50 cancellation or change fee. as you were taking up a spot.
Eco Adventures 2021 Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy- see top of the page and click on the button
If the need arises to cancel a registration, no refunds will be given at this time. However, you can change to a different camp based on availability OR a credit will be issued for our future programs such as one-day camps or summer in-house camps, birthday parties, Earth Day/any special events, Scout sleepover programs, Open Plays/Jungle Expresses, Behind the scenes "Feeding Frenzies", and Jungle Plays. . Please note this policy may change at any time. We thank you for your understanding and your continued support during the pandemic. We welcome concerns and questions via email.
Inclement Weather cancellation: Should there be any camp closings due to weather, you must make up the day within the 2023 camp season or throughout the next school year -based on space availability. Please note this is NOT credited to your account to use for any program. It is a CAMP make-up day and it is based on space availability. Please email us to inquire. It also expires before summer ends.
Credit:
Due to Covid protocols and over a hundred credit spots to fill... space is extremely limited. If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space. If you are unsure of registration during COVID pandemic, please do not hold the spot. You can always use credit next year. If you must cancel, with less than 3 weeks before the camp, there is a $50 cancellation/administration fee. If you have additional credit, the $50 fee will be taken out of your credit. If it is less than 1 week, you lose half the value of the camp credit as you have taken up an eligible spot. If we are able to fill your spot, (on a waitlist) we will not take ½ your credit and only a $50 cancellation fee will apply. We thank you for your understanding.
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*Before Care from 8am Or After Care until 5pmPrice is $12/day (please inquire)
Both Before AND After Care is $110 for the week.
Extended after care is now an option for until 5:30pm - please inquire as it is not an option online....email us ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com
Please email if interested.
* This will be indoors. A movie will be provided- campers will be social distanced 3ft apart.
Our TAX EIN # 80-0921094. Your registration email receipt can be used for tax purpose and has our tax ID number.
If you need a customized receipt for tax purposes, please give us at least 2 weeks notice due to the high amount of requests.
Why Eco Adventures Camps? We are UNIQUE and like no other. Here is why:
Meet Eco Adventures staff! From the owners who just so happen to be world-renowned explorers from National Geographic scientist and marine biologist to our expert instructors made up of naturalists/researchers, educators with advanced degrees and environmentalists! We are professional, trained educators. This is what we love...this is what we do! The Executive Director has 35+ years of experience with conservation education, research/eco travel and leading, organizing, and developing camps from the Miami Seaquarium, Parrot Jungle and Gardens, National Audubon Society, to the National Aquarium and more!
We also have mentored many previous campers/Junior Assistants and have now HIRED them to lead camps as counselors! Not only do they KNOW camps, but they are a FUN and important part of your child's camp experience. We pride ourselves on our training from animal safety to first aide/CPR certifications and are certified with NO violations from the MD Dept. of Health Camp Association. Lastly, all of our staff has been additionally trained on the new CDC safety guidelines and COVID safety procedures for preventing illness.
The safety of your children, our staff and animals are the upmost priority. We had a 3 successful summer camp seasons with the new COVID protocols and procedures. Eco Adventures will be operating under MD Youth Camp Association and CDC guidelines to provide a safe and illness preventative environment for all participants. We feel, that we have enacted a plan that not only ensures the safety and well-being of our employees and participants but also allows for plenty of enrichment and fun for all campers. Although they are not as strict as 2020, we are continuing many for the safety of all.
IMPORTANT PROTOCOL AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES WE ARE TAKING TO ENSURE A SAFE HEALTHY FACILITY:
*HEPA filters, extra ventilation, hand washing will take place numerous times a day, in addition to other sanitizing procedures with several administrative staff to supervise sanitation and safety procedures.
*Masks are now optional.
Please feel free to email us with questions or schedule a tour of our facility. *Note the protocols can change at any time. Email us at : ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com
We look forward to creating much-needed memorable experiences during a difficult time for all and we thank you for your continued support, and trust.
Sincerely,
Mei Len Sanchez- Barr and Dr. Brady Barr
We will be splitting up campers into age-appropriate groups of 15-17 or less. Each station will have at least one instructor, one intern, and one Counselor in training or Junior Assistant. We try to accommodate sibling requests and friend requests when needed. They will rotate from station to station every 30 minutes (crafts, games/activity, animals, snacks, inside air-conditioning downtime). Instructor's aides and admin staff/interns/volunteers will also assist in the stations.
We also have administrative staff to supervise and assist in between stations as needed. Lastly, the Director and Camp Director will be there to oversee the camp logistics and the safety of the camp.
What to Expect- Eco Adventures Camp 2023
We’re on our way to a FUN week! Here is additional information and reminders you need to know:
CAMP HOURS, BEFORE CARE AND AFTERCARE
• *REGULAR CAMPERS: 9am-4pm
• CITS: 8:15AM-4:30PM - DROP OFF AT THE DOOR
• Before & After Care: We offer before care beginning at 8am and after care until 5:00pm *OR extended care until 5:30pm for an extra fee. Cost is $13 per day for one or the other, or $25 per day for both. * Extended care $15 per day. If needed, email us with what day(s) you will need. They will go inside to watch a movie. Drop off and pick up at the door. Show pick up pass.
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DROP OFF AND PICK UP PROCEDURES
• CHECK IN/DROP OFF: Each morning we are implementing outside CAR drop off & pick up through a drop off line. PROCEED TO THE SECOND ENTRANCE BY AMERICAN CEDAR & MILLWORK THE KITCHEN AND TURN LEFT. LOOP BEHIND OUR BUILDING. Staff will be outside directing you. Please do not have your child get out of the car until a staff member has been by to perform the daily screening and cleared him/her to join their group.
• In order to have drop off be as smooth and efficient as possible, please roll your windows down ahead of time when we arrive at your car and make sure you camper is READY TO GO with backpack, water bottle, ALREADY applied sunscreen etc so you do not hold up the line.
• DROP OFF TIMES MON- 8:40 TUES-FRI- 8:45
• PICK UP: Starts at 3:45 pm- 4:00pm. You will be given a colored piece of paper with your child’s group color and name on the first day. Place in your RIGHT hand side window or dash board for BOTH morning and afternoon ALL WEEK. This will speed up the process. We will have staff members/CIT’s/volunteers outside escorting your child to your car. In order to minimize exposure risk, we ask that parents remain in their car during drop off and pick up. If you have another person picking up, please supply them with a photo of your pick up pass to show.
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CAMP SAFETY AND COVID PROTOCOLS
• COVID UPDATES: Please note all of our staff (16 and over) has been vaccinated. Masks are optional but will practice 2ft social distancing whenever possible. We have extra ventilation, HEPA filters in the rooms, sanitize and open the doors for fresh air throughout the day.
•General Health Concerns, Behavioral or Psychiatric Needs/ALLERGIES/MEDS: Please let us know BEFORE camp of any special needs so we can be prepared and better assist your child and remind us during drop off time. Any meds, must be administered by a parent unless it is a life-saving medication such as an epipen. You must have a medical authorization form filled out and signed by pediatrician.
• Tick season: Although we spray for ticks and mosquitos professionally, please spray your child with bug repellant each morning and perform a tick check each evening.
• Groups: Groups will be PRE-ASSIGNED before the first day of camp. This year, different aged siblings will be placed in their appropriate age group, unless it is absolutely necessary and requested to be together by the parent. If your child wants to be paired with a friend or relative, you must have requested it during registration on your SAWYER Profile. Groups are made at least two weeks in advance. After that there are no guarantees and sibling/friend requests will probably be with an mixed-age group.
*Each group will receive a group color and will be competing for the most points throughout the week. Show your spirit and earn points for your team! _________________________________________________________________________________________
The OTHER “411”:
•WHAT TO BRING: Apply sunscreen and bug spray before camp every day. Can wear cap/hat, sneakers. (no flip flops) Bring a small backpack with a water bottle, peanut-free lunch and snack, and spray sunscreen if needed. They will be given ice pops as an afternoon snack every day, if you wish your child to have something different please pack a second snack as well.
•CRAZY HAIR DAY /HAT DAY WED
FUN FRIDAYS: WEAR TEAM COLOR SHIRT-We will be playing field games and games in which the kids may get wet. Wear a bathing suit underneath, if desired, wear shoes they can get wet in/water shoes. Pack a small towel/change of clothes/shoes in case they are needed. Campers can not go barefoot. Cool off with Mr. Rob’s snow cones on Friday (no $ needed) . Wednesday Crazy Hair Day & Friday – Wear Your Team Colors Day. Please make note!!
• Please do not bring any toys, electronics, or valuables. Please LABEL everything with your child’s name on it and remember to pick up crafts daily. Any lost and found items after 2 weeks will be donated.
• JUNGLE SHOP: At the end of the day on THURSDAY , we will announce jungle shopping, you may bring $ for small souvenirs items are $1-$20 Please label $ in a zip lock bag with your child’s name. We will give those kids that do not bring anything something from the treasure box. Social distancing will be maintained during shopping time. We have Dr. Brady Barr (co-owner) Nat Geo books that he can also sign and personalize $7-$15. Tee shirts $15. If you would like to purchase a white ECO logo tee shirt, please let us know what size Youth XS, S, M, L, XL or Adult sizes.
• Who’s who: We have added extra staff administrators to assist with registration, camp administration, boo boos, behavior/special needs/allergies,/anything parents need as well as camp rotations, sanitation, and supervision. Tie dyed shirts are instructors, white shirts are junior assistants/CIT’s/volunteers. Polo shirts are administrative staff.
• Behavior Policy: As stated in the forms, just a friendly reminder of this policy that if my child(ren) does not consistently follow the safety rules and rules of conduct, the child may be expelled from the program without a refund.
* If your child is absent/sick, late, or need to picked up early, it is your responsibility to please call or email us to let us know.
• If you would like to sponsor an animal, make a donation, or donate produce/items from our wish list, please see our website. P.S. We always need newspaper!
CIT’S (Counselor in Training) INFORMATION
•CAMP HOURS FOR CIT’S ARE FROM 8:15am-4:30 pm. Please drop off at the door.
*If your CIT would like to stay until 5pm to work with animals Wednesdays. Please let us know.
Tee shirts are included this year. Extra tee shirts are for sale $15 per shirt. All other information above also pertains to the CITS except the drop off times and procedures.
We realize these past years has been very difficult for all- including your children during the pandemic. We are REALLY looking forward to making this the best, safest, most fun camp experience- as they truly deserve it! We also thank you for trusting us with your kids as we would not be here without our supporters. Feel free to contact us with any concerns or questions or feedback. We look forward to a great week of camp!
THANK YOU!
See you later...Alligator!
Mei Len Sanchez-Barr Director and Lydia Shreeve Camp Director
410-987-1300 www.ecoadventures.org EcoAdventuresmd@gmail.com
• Please note procedures can change with new Covid protols.
Campers will experience the ECO Mining Co. a “Wild West Water Stop” feature just out back of the ECO Bunkhouse, where we have our sluices set up and the ore is rich (we hope…). Prospectors will learn all about gold/silver mining, how to prospect, pan for gold and look for fossils, how to use a sluice, introduction to critters we may run into in the wild west, different ways to excavate, and even how to identify precious gems and real fossils!! At the end of their shift, the lucky miners (everyone) will get to weigh their findings at the Gold Dust Gulch Trading Post, where they can swap their nuggets for something they can actually take home!! The sluice boxes are a little leaky and the old Water Stop is unpredictable at best, so on this day, bring your swim suits and prepare to get wet!!
ECO Oyster Reef! Participants will putting on their waterman hats and tonging for Oysters at the Eco Oyster Reef! Utilizing, age old techniques and tools, campers will test their skill at bringing up oysters, shark teeth, and other fossils with their tonging skills. Many of our oysters contain pearls, so if campers get lucky, you will find an oyster with a pearl! Learn about how it makes this precious jewel and learn about its anatomy!
For ages 12+ . Does your child have a high interest in animals, assisting with children, developing real-world skills, (teamwork, leadership, responsibility), and learning about creature careers? We open up limited spots for each camp and pair them up with an ECO Jr. Assistant that will help mentor them. Each CIT and Jr. Assistant will assist the Lead instructor in a group rotation. CITS will also participate in all the activities such as snack, craft, games, interactions etc while assisting with the group. Do you have what it takes? This is requirement for aspiring Jr. Assistants. Fee is the same as the themed camp. Call to inquire. Must attend a meeting training prior to camp on June 3rd 5:30pm-7:00pm. MUST be 12 years old or older.
* Included in price is training and tee shirt given on training day. Extra tee shirts are $15.
Each of our AWARD WINNING specialty camps are themed and designed to get kids excited about our natural world. Our expertise is a hands on, up close and personal, interactive approach to learning. At Eco Adventures we believe in kids "doing" not watching. Whether its through a hands-on encounter with one of our over one hundred live animal ambassadors, an experience in our simulated rain forest, an activity in our outdoor classroom, wild crafts and games, fossil dig, a demonstration by a visiting scientist, or guided lesson by one of our professional staff members, will all ignite your child's senses and passion for our natural world. Let your kids "go wild" this summer, at a rainforest near you...Eco Adventures...they may never come home!
This is an indoor/outdoor camp. Campers are not outside for more than 1 hr at a time.
*Due to Covid-19 and CDC requirements some activities may be changing to meet the safety guidelines. but will still meet daily crafts, games, animal interaction, team activities, snack time, guest speakers, fossil dig, water Friday FUN
*Subject to change as restrictions lessen.
*This year we are committed to making this summer- EXTRA special, EXTRA FUN for the kids! They deserve and need it! On top of the weekly themes, we will have friendly competitions between groups/teams to encourage spirit, fun, and following the new rules such as social distancing. Teams/groups can gain points for good behaviors, following rules, spirit, and teamwork, but can also get deducted points for not following rules (such as social distancing). Perhaps this will encourage them to try! Winners get gold medals at the end of the camp and a picture with their group and trophy to post winners on our FB page.
* We will be bringing in some FUN entertainment, whether it is a Magician, Training/DNR/park ranger guest speakers, Rescue Dogs, and more!...
*Fridays will be FIELD Days- where kids can play fun, outdoor field games and have Mr. Rob's Famous Snow cones!
We ask that parents pack one snack and a peanut-free lunch. We feel the kids deserve a little cooling off and break from the norm. As a result, we will be providing a daily afternoon "pop" for kids to cool off. Should you not want this, please make sure you pack an extra snack. As always, let us know if your child has allergies. Fridays- Mr. Rob will be coming with SNOW CONES!
What's a camp without games? Our dynamic and fun games encourage cooperative learning, physical activity, and team-building skills. We provide outdoor relay games and obstacle courses, creative games, as well as trivia games for the mind all while social distancing. Campers will be put in a colored group (we will provide colored bandanas) where they will compete with the other groups by gaining points throughout the week for good behavior, team spirit, chants, challenges, and more! The winners get to take a picture with the infamous trophy and their picture posted on Facebook.
At Eco Adventures, kids are encouraged use their imagination and allow their inner Picasso to shine as they create crafts, art projects, and experiments to take home. We try to encourage recycled materials for crafts. The Art Camp provides them to get more in-depth with various mediums of art forms.
All crafts are related to the theme.
We provide guest speakers that provide demonstrations from various institutions such as DNR, National Geographic, National Aquarium in Baltimore, animal trainers, marine biologists, divers, Dog training shows, Dog sport races, magician, Park rangers/DNR, Fidos for Freedom, Bird of Prey handler, farm animal petting zoos, pony rides and more!
Discounts:
*EARLY BIRD: until March 1st USE CODE: ECO15 Must use for the code before registration and cannot refund once registered. ONLY THIS DISCOUNT CAN BE APPLIED until March 1st. After March First sibling discounts are automatically applied.
*SIBLING: We have a new registration system that automatically gives certain discounts such as 6% off each sibling. Sibling discounts only apply when two (or more) children are being registered for the exact same class at the exact same time. Sibling discounts do not apply when you register for different classes.
*FULL SUMMER: Sign up for 9 weeks of camp $375* no other discounts apply.
Please note adjustments will be made if there are two codes/discounts used. We will give you the better discount.
For instance use code EB15 for first child and you get sibling discount taken off the second if it is the SAME CAMP.
If you are registering siblings, please register then separately for Open House and Early Bird discount.