Summer Camps 2021
WE OPENED UP SPOTS FOR ECO SAMPLER II TUES AND WED CALL 410-987-1300 Also Have Sept 7Th FUN IN THE SUN CAMP DAY BEFORE SCHOOL starts- ALL AGES 5-11 Register for Sept 7th.
Cancellation/rescheduling/credit policy
As you all may know, we have endured extreme financial hardships in 2020 due to Covid. In order to stay alive, we had to rehome some animals, furlough staff, decrease salaries, take out loans and receive government assistance. 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. This fuel gave us the will to keep going and the confirmation that we are indeed an invaluable resource to our community! Your kids this year will continue to need enrichment, fun, and hope in a safe manner, now more than ever. We are ready to be that “something to look forward to” this summer. We continue to be grateful for your understanding when we have to increase prices to sustain us from loss of income from Covid and create restrictions to the use of credit and our cancellation policy.
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy
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. Please note, there may be a difference in price.
As we strive and plan for another successful summer camp, we would like to share with you the
Credit policy for 2021.
If you have credit as a result of COVID in 2020, you may use credit for the following programs:
Feeding Frenzies (1 hr private tours for your family/social bubble group)
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 2021 season and future camps
Credit does not expire
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.
* 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.
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 on registration by February 14th. 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 2021 camp season. 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.
We have had already one very successful camp 2020 in the pandemic and are ready for 2021! Based on guidance by the Governor of Maryland and in consultation with county officials, we are thrilled to announce that camps will continue with lesser restrictions this summer. 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.
IMPORTANT PROTOCOL AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES WE ARE TAKING TO ENSURE A SAFE HEALTHY FACILITY:
1. Eco Adventures will have groups of 15 kids or less with the same instructor each day. There will not be any mixing of groups and social distancing will be enforced in a competitive, but fun manner when other groups are around in the same area.
2. Eco Adventures staff will be the same staff the entire camp. All staff and volunteers ages 16 and up will be vaccinated and wear masks indoors. Children are also required to wear masks indoors only. Masks outside are optional.
3. The facility will be thoroughly disinfected several times throughout the day and after each rotation.
4. Every child will be screened/have their temperature taken, before admittance each day. Any child running a fever or showing signs of illness will not be admitted. There will be staggered outside car drop-offs and pickups.
5. Parents will be required to sign a pre-screening health questionnaire.
6. All persons entering Eco Adventures will be required to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before entry, which we will provide.
7. 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.
8. Parents are not allowed inside ECO adventures in order to ensure the least amount of exposure indoors. Guests will follow same protocols.
There are many more changes, and safety procedures that we have implemented, to ensure a fun yet safe learning environment for all, in which the details will be forthcoming.
In closing, we understand these are scary and stressful times, and that our children have been deprived of much during social isolation (we are parents too), being away from school, their friends, youth sports, support groups, etc, and we also realize the importance of inching out of isolation and moving forward for our children's mental health, if only in baby steps. In saying this, we are confident that Eco Adventures has several areas to spread out to both indoors and outdoors for your safest summer camp option, and are confident that Eco Adventures is taking every step to offer you and your child the safest camp experience during these unprecedented times. Please fee free to email us with questions or schedule a tour of our facility. Email us at : ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com
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 are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of your children, and are taking into consideration all of your concerns and suggestions, as we move forward with our summer camps. We look forward to creating much-needed memorable experiences during a difficult time for all and we thank you for your continued support and patience.
Sincerely,
Mei Len Sanchez- Barr and Dr. Brady Barr
CAMP 2021-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.
- Eco Adventures will be operating at normal capacity this year. This means we can have UP TO 6 groups of up to 15 kids with one instructor and Jr. Assistant/volunteer per group, having the same staff each day.
- Parents will be required to sign a pre-screening health questionnaire.
- Every child will be screened/have their temperature taken at our new outside reception area, before admittance each day. Any child running a fever of 100.4 or above or showing ANY signs of illness will not be admitted.
- There will be staggered outside car drop offs and pick ups according to what group your child is in.
- 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 will be required INDOORS only
- The facility will be thoroughly disinfected several times throughout the day and sprayed with 24 hr Mircrobacter. Also cleaned at the end of the day after all campers have left.
- 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.
In addition, some stations will have additional supervision depending on the station.
How will you deal with the extreme heat/inclement weather, etc ?
- We will have two tents in the field this year 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. Two-three of the stations will be inside, the rest outdoors.
- 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.
- As the restrictions lessen this may also change.
Social distancing:
How many staff will you have?
** All of our main staff is made up of trained professionals with backgrounds in herpetology, zoology, marine biology, animal behaviour, environmental/natural sciences, and more and/or have had several years of experience working in this field with Eco Adventures. We will conduct extra training, and preparations for camps to ensure a safe and fun learning environment.
**There will be 1 instructor to up to 15 kids and one Jr. Assistant/volunteer per group. In addition, we have additional staff and interns manning the stations and 2-3 administrative staff supervising the camp and assisting with logistic and sanitation. Camps usually have 3-6 groups. Some groups will have CIT’s (Counselors in training) to assist with the group.
**Administrative and cleaning staff that will be indoors/outdoors to help supervise activities from the Triage area (where we mend boo boos) 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 required by MD State Youth Camps Association indoors only. They cannot participate without one. If your child forgets a mask, we will have disposable ones or cloth masks for sale (fun animal prints, tie dye etc) and $20 tie dye tee shirts for a fundraiser.
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 is $25 cancellation fee and receive credit only for the remaining of the money . There is the option of getting insurance through campdocs. 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 does not expire.
How will groupings work?
Children will be pre grouped based on age/gender/ allergies/special needs/friend/sibling requests. Please make sure you give us these requests at least 1 week ahead. We are able to make changes on the first morning. You will receive a “ what to Expect” email 1 week before with group color assignments.
How will “drop off and pick up” work?
Drop off for regular camp hours will be staggered starting at 8:35 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. Temp checks will be done before the child gets out of the car. Adults and children must wear masks during this time when we can’t social distance.
Pick up will be starting at 3:45 -4pm. This year, 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 wakies for dismissals where JA’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 4:15 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 of $10 if you did not prepay it)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 ring the doorbell upon arrival so we can check your child in/out outside the registration table. Sorry no adult is allowed in the building without permission.
Extended After care is available for extra $15 per day until 5:30pm
If my child is out of state, can he/she participate?
Yes they can participate from VA, DC, DE, PA.
Will there be the same themes and activities will resume pre-COVID- except for field trips.
Field Day Fridays- Play “team” Field Games and Mr. Rob will come in that afternoon with snow cones as usual. We will also have a fossil/gem dig outside with our ECO Sleuice running. New year, is Watermen Oyster Tonging activity where kids can tong for oysters and try to pick up fossils along the way. If they get lucky(and they will) they may find a colored pearl a real oyster to take home.
What about the field trips?
This year, we cannot go on field trips. Instead, we will bring in FUN entertainment for the kids regardless of the themes. Whether it is a magician, fire truck, Weird and Wacky Science Guy, Trainers, Dog Shows, performers and more!
What about guests entering the building?
No outsider adult guest is allowed to enter the building without permission. Guests for performances will be performing outside unless inside is a must. In that case, temp checks, pre- screening, social distancing of at least 10-20 feet from their audience and masks are required during the performance.
What if my child requires medications?
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- Administrative staff will assist and supervise self-administration.
What about reapplying sunscreen? Can you assist my child?
Yes- we sure can and we ask that the child bring SPRAY sunscreen only this year.
Will campers be sharing materials and equipment?
Materials such as (glue, scissors, paintbrushes etc) will be sanitized. Sports equipment will be disinfected before each rotation. Campers will be carrying their backpacks from station to station.
What if my child has special 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. 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 on campdocs.com under your account.
**New, COVID Camp Participation Waiver that includes pre-screening- please do this 2 weeks prior to camp.
**A medication administration form (if needed)
** A doctor’s note to participate if the child is under 5 years old or has medical conditions
What about snacks?
This year, 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. 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 12:20pm. all outside except for two 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 an outside “Triage Tent” away from the campers to tend to. This year, we have to be very strict about illnesses and 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.
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 10 days. 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 Friday to go into the gift shop to make purchases one group at a time.
Summer Camps 2021
Each of our award-winning specialty camps are themed and designed to get kids excited about our natural world. From Creature Careers, Marine Biology, Art camp, Survival, Animal Training 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.... at a rainforest near you! Experience the Extraordinary! We will continue to follow all COVID safety protocols and had a successful 2020 summer camp season. Schedule a tour today.
All camps include:
*Instructor and Jr. Assistant/CIT volunteer per group
* Sanitation team to sanitize between rotations
* Water Friday- with ECO sluice, fossil dig, and tonging for oysters
*Snow cone snack
*At least one weekly entertainer or guest speaker depending on the theme
*guaranteed FUN!
Scroll to Bottom of Page for Important Camp Info & Policies. Please email us your questions and concerns and we would be happy to answer them!
IMPORTANT CAMP INFORMATION AT A GLANCE: Scroll down for more details on protocols
Camp Hours:
*All camps are 9am-4pm, Before Care begins at 8 AM and Aftercare ends at 5 PM ($10/day for one or $18/day for both)
* Extended after care is available until 5:30pm
*There is a yearly registration fee of $15
Age Groups:
Campers will be divided into groups: Trailblazers (ages 4-5) & (6-8) ECO Explorers (9-11) & Counselors in Training (ages 11+)
Each week is different price depending on theme. Daily camps are $95 per day unless otherwise noted
** $20 off each week of camp at April Open House (no other discount can be applied) ONLY valid for this day -and automatically be taken off
*Early bird discount of $10 off each week-long camp until March 15th .
*$20 off each sibling discount per WEEK of camp CODE: SIB20. CANNOT use on first child. Only siblings.
*Sign up for all 11 weeks of camp $300 per week/ $275 sibling * NO other discounts apply
*Please note adjustments will be made if there are two codes used. We will give you the better discount.
**COVID UPDATE ON MASKS: It is mandated by Youth Camps Associations of Maryland, that all people must wear masks indoors. Outdoors is not required by we will social distance whenever possible. All of our staff will be vaccinated.
FUN in the SUN staggered days Kindergarten Camp AND SEPT 7th for ALL AGES 5-11
September 8th, 9th , 10th, 13th, 14th
Ages 4-6
$95 per day or $300/Week
September 7th ages 5-11 FUN IN THE SUN last day before school CAMP $95 per day
School is almost upon us, so let’s have one more week of Fun in the Sun! This week will be full of fun outdoor activities, in addition to our usual animal interactions, crafts, creative snacks, and games. We will go outside for fun summer games, and even have animal races! Bring your bathing suits every day for our Field Games Days where we have fun with a variety of different water games, and even 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. Can sign up per day or week.
Eco Sampler Camp Week & One Day Camps
June 21st - 25th & August 30th - September 3rd
Start off your summer with a bang and see why we won the Best Summer Camp Award! 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, where you are able to sign up for individual days or the whole week. Each day will include creative snacks, crafts, and games to go along with each theme, Dept. of Nat Resources Rescue dog and guest speaker, and of course- our one of a kind animal interactions! Sign up now so you don’t miss out on this fun-filled week!
Monday: Wilderness Survival
Tuesday: Animal Trainer
Wednesday: Creature Careers
Thursday: Treasure Quest
Friday: Marine Biology
-June Eco Sampler: featuring a DNR service Dog visit
-August Eco Sampler: featuring guest entertainers - Dog show!
ECO-SAMPLER I- $95 per day or $385 per week
ECO-SAMPLER II- $400 per week just opened single day camps!! 8/28/21
Wilderness Survival
June 21st
& Aug 30th
$95 per day
Take a breath of fresh air and get ready for a week of good, old-fashioned camp-out fun! Besides learning survival skills in the wild, campers will pitch tents, build the perfect “fire” , make smores and play good old outdoor games. Learn about animals in your backyard, poisonous vs. venomous...Go on nature scavenger hunts. Create nature crafts and how to ID animal tracks and scats, and learn how to read a compass. They will look for fossils in our very own Bone Yard dig site. Reinforce your kid’s love for nature where it’s ok to get dirty, catch bugs and play outdoors!
Guest speakers: DNR Park Ranger, Dr. Brady Barr- herpetologist
Animal Training & Enrichment
June 22nd
& Aug 31st
$95 per day
Have you ever wondered what it's like to train an alligator, give an armadillo a pedicure, or bathe a nearly 100 pound tortoise? If so, you have come to the right place! Here at Eco Adventures our animal care experts spend all day giving personalized care to each and every one of our animals. From slithery snakes to our cute and cuddly Kinkajou, all of our animals require special care and training! This camp is designed for anyone who wants to find out more about jobs that involve working with animals and training them! * Perfect for aspiring Junior Assistants.
Creature Careers
June 23rd
& Sept 1st
$95 per day
If working with animals has been your dream, then this will be the camp for you! In this camp, we will take a look at all the different jobs that relate to working directly with our animal friends. Learn what it takes to be a vet, taking care of sick or injured animals, an animal service dog trainer,, or a park ranger, making sure their habitat is safe and people respect the outdoors they call home. Meet a rescue dog and his handler! Complete your career training with hands-on animal interactions, and you have a recipe for success. So sign up today to get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
Guest speakers: Dr. Brady Barr- herpetologist, Veterinarian and Vet tech with guest animals, Fidos For Freedom Service dogs, Animal Trainer, Zoo Keeper, Critter catcher, and more!
Treasure Quest: Lost Idol
June 24th
& Sept 2nd
$95 per day
Legend goes that there was a lost idol that was buried somewhere near Eco Adventures. Recently mysterious pieces of a map was found between the pages of a dusty old book in the EcoAdventures’ library. The pieces of the map hints of a famous tale of Black Beard lost treasure! But first you mist find the idol for clues. There’s sure to be lots of surprises and mishaps along the way, because tale has it- there are slithery, creepy, animal guardians and booby traps that guard this lost treasure. You must prove your bravery, teamwork, and knowledge and follow your instincts as you will be put to the test..in the ultimate scavenger hunt of a lifetime!! In this Treasure Quest, kids will embark on an epic journey as they follow all the clues, decipher the mysteries, solve the riddles, and avoid the pitfalls as they search for for the real buried treasure.
Guest speaker: Magician
NEW Marvelous Marine Biology
June 25th
& Sept 3rd
$95 per day
Grab your swimsuits and dive gear and get ready to dive deep into the ocean to explore the world of marine biology and oceonography! We will discover the different realms of marine biology, from ancient creatures of the deep and marine mammals to amazing top predators like sharks! Campers will be immersed in the world of water with interactive activities, animal encounters, crafts, and more! Campers will get to cool off with a snow cone and enjoy water play, our own ECO sluice, and a fossil dig.
Art on the Wild side: Color Your World
June 28th - July 2nd
$375/Week
Get ready to unleash your expressive side and go wild! We will explore regions around the world of art this week. Paint with our pythons, craft with our chameleons, and sculpt with our snakes! Creations may include, watercolors, pastels, sketching, 3-D sculpting, and more. Campers will have the perfect inspiration with our animals, and get up close and personal with hands-on animal encounters! Color your summer with the wildest art camp in town!
Animal X-Games
June 28th - July 2nd
$375/Week
So you think you can kick, bite, jump, and pull? How do stack up against the best? Now it's your chance to prove it in this animal vs. kid smackdown! How do you size up running against a Komodo Dragon? Can you hold your breath as long as a giant sea turtle? Pull as hard as a giant octopus, or bite as hard as a croc? Eco Adventures will provide the outdoor and indoor Arena you bring the skills. We will put your kids to the test with a series of challenges, both physical and mental in a friendly competition. We’re talking obstacle courses, trivia games, races, jumping, throwing... and more! This summer, it's kids against beasts in a battle on the wild side. Can't wait to see who wins GOLD!
Wizarding World: Fantastic Beasts
July 5th - 9th
$395/week
OR NEW OPTION $325 for 4 day option Tues-Friday
Pack your suitcases and grab your wands...we are going on a wizarding world adventure! Campers will be starting their journey by getting sorted into their Hogwarts classes and brushing up on their spell casting skills before they are whisked away from the castle to explore what the magical wizarding world has to offer. We will be taking a pit stop at the Ministry of Magic so all of our young wizards and witches can receive their official Auror I.D. cards, so they are prepared for whatever magic we might encounter! Once we are ready we will begin our travels around the globe to discover what types of Fantastic Beasts are hiding in plain sight, and help to solve whatever magical situations we might encounter along the way. This year, students will learn about fairies, dragons, sirens, dwarfs, and pick their own animal familiars. Encounters with owls, tarantulas, frogs, and maybe even a giant snake will be a given. Of course, there will be plenty of classes to go to: from potions class, to how to make butterbeer, wand dueling and spells class to herbology... and we might get hungry along the way, so we will be sure to pack everyone's favorite magical jelly bean treats in our suitcases! Meet a real wizard magician with real magic that will knock your wands off! Sign up now if you are ready to be part of our globe-trotting, adventurous team of witches and wizards!
* Register up by May and get a School of Magic invite in the mail….lookout for the owl!
NEW Marvelous Marine Biology
July 12th - 16th
$395/Week
So you want to be a Marine Biologist you say? This camp all NEW informative and interactive activities mixed with fun! We will take a BITE into fun as we learn all about SHARKS and other marine predators. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty as older groups will get to dissect a squid, while younger campers will race their favorite crab with Hermit Crab races. In addition, young marine biologists will get to enjoy sea turtle-tacular activities, – learn about our Chesapeake animals like terrapins, the ins and outs of marine animal rescues, and real stories from scientists, sea creature misconceptions, experiments, and marine-based activities. Tong for oysters, and even dissect an oyster with a pearl! A guest speaker from DNR will talk about water safety, meet marine biologists and divers...and even see a real yellow submarine! Fossil digs will uncover ancient marine invertebrates and shark teeth! Salt is in the air this day, so get ready to dive into the deep blue sea. Oh and sign up quick because it is our most popular camp...goes fast!! * We will have many different activities and speakers for both camps.
Animal Training & Enrichment
July 19th - 23rd
$390/Week
Have you ever wondered what it's like to train an alligator, give an armadillo a pedicure, or bathe a nearly 100 pound tortoise? If so, you have come to the right place! Here at Eco Adventures, our animal care experts spend all day giving personalized care to each and every one of our animals. All of our animals require special care and training! We have NEW animals to train such as Blue and Gold Macaw, Argentine Tegus, Kinkajou, gators, turtles and more! This camp is designed for anyone who wants to find out what it takes to train animals. Each group, gets an animal to train throughout the week. At the end of the week, they show off their new found animal training behaviors to the rest of the campers!
In addition to our animal care and training staff, we will bring in training experts from different fields such as dog trainer/search and rescue, Famous Bella and Mario dog show, and more- to show campers what their jobs are all about! Daily activities include hands-on encounters, demonstrations, making enrichment toys/props, crafts, and more. This is like no other, one of a kind camp so sign up now!
Wilderness Survival Camp
July 26th - 30th
$380
Join us for a week full of outdoor and survivor fun! What would you do if you were stranded on a tropical island...or in the middle of the great wilderness?! Would you know how to make a shelter or build a fire? Would you be prepared to find your own food, or even have to eat worms (yuk!) to survive? This fun-filled week will be full of mental and physical challenges, outdoor adventure, and team-building games that will teach campers how to be the ultimate survivors. We will learn pitch tents, build shelter or how to build a fire and reward ourselves with a s’more’s treat! We will learn how to survive in teams and compete against each other to test our skills. Dept. of Natural Resources will be here to do a “Hug a Tree” program that teaches kids how to survive should they get lost in the woods. Campers will also get hands-on experience with exotic animals you might encounter in the wild, so they are prepared for anything! This week we will truly discover the meaning behind the survival of the fittest!
*Most activities will still take place at Eco Adventures and the surrounding property with field trips to local trails.
Treasure Quest: Lost Idol
August 2nd - 6th
$380/Week
The legend goes that there was a lost idol that was buried somewhere near Eco Adventures. Recently mysterious pieces of a map were found between the pages of a dusty old book in the EcoAdventures’ library. The pieces of the map hint at a famous tale of Black Beard's lost treasure! But first, you must find the idol for clues. There’s sure to be lots of surprises and mishaps along the way because tale has it- there are slithery, creepy, animal guardians and booby traps that guard this lost treasure. You must prove your bravery, teamwork, and knowledge and follow your instincts as you will be put to the test..in the ultimate scavenger hunt of a lifetime!! In this Treasure Quest, kids will embark on an epic journey as they follow all the clues, decipher the mysteries, solve the riddles, and avoid the pitfalls as they search for the real buried treasure. Magicians and a Captain/pirate appearance is a must! Riches may await those brave enough to attempt this challenge.
NEW World of Wizarding: Triwizard Tournament
August 16th - 20th
$395/Week
Calling all returning and first years witches, wizards, and muggles!! Eco’s school of magic is SUPER excited to announce that it’s time for the biggest test of strength and skill in the magical world (like the Olympics, but better). You guessed it-we’re hosting our very own TRIWIZARD TOURNAMENT!! First years are welcome to get caught up in the excitement of these crazy times--and even try out the challenges themselves!! Can you defeat a dragon, brave the mysterious Great Lake, and find your way through the maze in time?? Eat, drink, and be merry during this all-week wizarding celebration. Wizards in training will be sorted with our talking sorting hat, and also get to meet some "familiars" creatures like “Trevor the Toad”, meet a dragon and try speaking “parsel tongue” with GIGANTOR our 25 ft snake. By the end of camp, all the sorcerers will know just what it takes to cast the perfect spell, how to conjure up a charm, or block an unwanted hex! And of course, in the Great Hall there will be plenty of magical snacks, like chocolate frogs, 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, ...Whichever houses you are sorted into, you will be dueling off, show your house spirit for the tournament of champions challenge! (Muggles encouraged to attend!)
*Register up by May and get a School of Magic acceptance letter in the mail….lookout for the owl!
Creature Careers
August 23rd - 27th
$395/Week
If working with animals has been your dream, then this will be the camp for you! In this camp, we will take a look at all the different jobs that relate to working directly with our animal friends. Learn what it takes to be a vet, taking care of sick or injured animals, or a park ranger, making sure their habitat is safe and people respect the outdoors they call home. 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. With all these exciting options out there, your kids will get guidance from our professional team and even some experts from these incredible jobs. Each day, kids will meet guest speakers from a field and enjoy a fly Ball dog competition, famous Dog Show, Fidos for Freedom service dogs, and more!! Complete your career training with hands-on animal interactions, and you have a recipe for success. So sign up today to get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
NEW Marvelous Marine Biology II
August 9th - 13th
$395/Week
So you want to be a Marine Biologist you say? This camp all NEW informative and interactive activities mixed with fun! We will take a BITE into fun as we learn all about SHARKS and other marine predators. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty as older groups will get to dissect a squid, while younger campers will race their favorite crab with Hermit Crab races. In addition, young marine biologists will get to enjoy sea turtle-tacular activities, – learn about our Chesapeake animals like terrapins, the ins and outs of marine animal rescues, and real stories from scientists, sea creature misconceptions, experiments, and marine-based activities. Tong for oysters, and even dissect an oyster with a pearl! A guest speaker from DNR will talk about water safety, meet marine biologists and divers...and even see a real yellow submarine! Fossil digs will uncover ancient marine invertebrates and shark teeth! Salt is in the air this day, so get ready to dive into the deep blue sea. Oh and sign up quick because it is our most popular camp...goes fast!! * We will have many different activities and speakers for both camps.
School is almost upon us, so let’s have one more week of Fun in the Sun! This week will be full of fun outdoor activities, in addition to our usual animal interactions, crafts, creative snacks, and games. We will go outside for fun summer games, and even have turtle or alligator races! Bring your bathing suits for our Field Games Days where we have fun with a variety of different water games, and even 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.
See ECO Sampler description for the first week. Hurry! not many camps are open through the last week of school....so grab your spot today!
$400 for last week of camp.
Specialty Summer Camps-
Animal Keeper Apprentice
Every Friday in the Summer and some Wednesdays.
Ages 9+
10 AM - 1 PM $70
10 AM - 4 PM $100 Full day on Fridays only
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 three participants per day!! Perfect for aspiring Jr. Assistants
Eco Explorers Outdoor Walk on the Wild side Fieldtrip Camp- FULL
August 2nd - 5th
$390
4 days
Space is Limited to 10 campers
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 wild side and explore the great outdoors. We will get the ins and outs of navigating trails, using a compass, identifying animal tracks, beach clean-ups, scavenger hunts, seining, fishing, and more! Campers will venture into nature each day to look for wildlife, search for fossils and artifacts. Transportation will be provided in the snake van with limited space for 12 campers. 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 Sandy Point State Park, Patuxent State Park, KinderFarm Park
Fossil Beach Trip-FULL
July 15th
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Ages 7+
$110
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
SUMMER CAMPS 2021-ARE YOU READY??.... BECAUSE your kids deserve some much-needed FUN !!!
Like a facility tour? Call us 410-987-1300
Each camp is themed and is 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 nature hikes, outdoor classrooms, animal interactions, crafts, games, field trips, guest speakers to learning about careers animal training, and animal care. Do your child a favor and let them take a walk on the wild side at Eco Adventures this summer! Go ahead... "Experience the Extraordinary"!!
* Scroll down for policies
Why Eco Adventures Camp? 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 animal rescuers, naturalists, animal trainers, and more! We are professional, trained educators. The Executive Director has 24+ years of experience with leading, organizing, and developing camps from the Miami Seaquarium, Parrot Jungle and Gardens, National Audubon Society, National Aquarium and more!
We also have mentored many previous campers 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 and never any SAFETY violations ever! Lastly, all of our staff has been additionally trained on the new CDC safety guidelines and safety procedures for preventing illness.
The safety of your children, our staff and animals are the upmost priority. We had a successful 2020 summer camp with the new COVID protocols and procedures. Here are just a few guidelines.
We have had already one very successful camp 2020 in the pandemic and are ready for 2021! Based on guidance by the Governor of Maryland and in consultation with county officials, we are thrilled to announce that camps will continue with lesser restrictions this summer. 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.
IMPORTANT PROTOCOL AND PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES WE ARE TAKING TO ENSURE A SAFE HEALTHY FACILITY:
1. Eco Adventures will have groups of 15 kids or less with the same instructor each day. There will not be any mixing of groups and social distancing will be enforced in a competitive, but fun manner when other groups are around in the same area.
2. Eco Adventures staff will be the same staff the entire camp. All staff and volunteers ages 16 and up will be vaccinated and wear masks indoors. Children are also required to wear masks indoors only. Masks outside are optional.
3. The facility will be thoroughly disinfected several times throughout the day and after each rotation.
4. Every child will be screened/have their temperature taken, before admittance each day. Any child running a fever or showing signs of illness will not be admitted. There will be staggered outside car drop-offs and pickups.
5. Parents will be required to sign a pre-screening health questionnaire.
6. All persons entering Eco Adventures will be required to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before entry, which we will provide.
7. 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.
8. Parents are not allowed inside ECO adventures in order to ensure the least amount of exposure indoors. Guests will follow same protocols.
There are many more changes, and safety procedures that we have implemented, to ensure a fun yet safe learning environment for all, in which the details will be forthcoming.
In closing, we understand these are scary and stressful times, and that our children have been deprived of much during social isolation (we are parents too), being away from school, their friends, youth sports, support groups, etc, and we also realize the importance of inching out of isolation and moving forward for our children's mental health, if only in baby steps. In saying this, we are confident that Eco Adventures has several areas to spread out to both indoors and outdoors for your safest summer camp option, and are confident that Eco Adventures is taking every step to offer you and your child the safest camp experience during these unprecedented times. Please fee 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
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 are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of your children, and are taking into consideration all of your concerns and suggestions, as we move forward with our summer camps. We look forward to creating much-needed memorable experiences during a difficult time for all and we thank you for your continued support and patience.
Sincerely,
Mei Len Sanchez- Barr and Dr. Brady Barr
We will be splitting up campers into age-appropriate groups of 15 or less with one instructor and one Counselor in training or Junior Assistant. We try to accommodate sibling requests and friend requests when needed. Each group will be with their own instructor the whole time without mixing groups. They will rotate from station to station (crafts, games/activity, animals, snacks, inside air-conditioning downtime) following one-way only directions and will travel to each station. Instructor's aides and admin staff/interns/volunteers will also assist in the stations as well and will get campers from a station and take them to the restroom inside/help with the next station set up and sanitation in between stations. Lastly, the Director and Assistant Camp Director will be there to oversee the camp and her administrative staff to assist with the logistics and the safety of the camp.
What to Expect- Eco Adventures Camp
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 *SEE YOUR SPECIFIC ASSIGNED DROP OFF TIME BELOW
• 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 $10 per day for one or the other, or $17 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 while observing social distancing. Drop off and pick up at the door. Show pick up pass. Ring doorbell on the left.
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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. We are required to perform a daily screenings and temperatures. If your child is exhibiting a temperature 100.4 or greater or any signs of illness, he/she will not be allowed at camp. 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 mask, backpack, water bottle, ALREADY applied sunscreen etc so you do not hold up the line.
• DROP OFF TIMES BY LAST NAME:
• A-E 8:40-8:45 F-I 8:45-8:50 J-P 8:55-9:00 Q-S 9:00-9:05 T-Z 9:05-9:10
• 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 or ask for another copy.
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CAMP SAFETY AND COVID PROTOCOLS
• FORMS ONLINE: You must have filled out all ONLINE forms at campdoc.com no later than one week before the start of camp. Any child under 5 or any age with a medical condition MUST have a note from their physician stating that they are clear to attend camp.
• COVID UPDATES: Please note all of our staff (16 and over) has been vaccinated but will continue to wear masks indoors and whenever we cannot social distance outside.
• FACE COVERINGS: As mandated by MD Youth Camp Association, ALL children must wear a mask inside and practice social distancing of 3ft inside. Outside, masks are optional but will practice 2ft social distancing whenever possible. Please be sure they keep it readily available. If your child forgets a mask, they can use their bandanas that will be given to them on the first day. We have extra ventilation, HEPA filters in the rooms, sanitize and open the doors for fresh air throughout the day.
• SPECIAL 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. New this year: 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.
• Each week, depending on the theme, we will have guest speakers and entertainers. All visitors will be pre-screened, required to wear masks, and practice social distancing.
• 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 requested to be together by the parent. If your child wants to be paired with a friend or relative, PLEASE LET US KNOW NOW. Please email requests to ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com. After that, we will do our best to meet requests but cannot guarantee it if it’s one week away. Staff Child ratio 15:2 There are 15 campers per 1 lead instructor and Jr. Assistant volunteer/CIT, plus an instructor aide at each station Although there will be no mixing of groups, each group will receive a group color and will be competing por 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, spray sunscreen if needed, and one snack. 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.
• 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. 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 WEDNESDAY, we will announce jungle shopping, you may bring $ for small souvenirs items are .50-$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 $13. 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 full camps, so this year we have 3-4 camp 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. Blue 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 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 8:15am4:30 pm Please drop off at the door.
*If your CIT would like to stay until 5pm to work with animals. Please let us know.
*If your CIT missed the training last Saturday, it is Ok and we will catch him/her up when they come in on the first day.
*If they would like a white ECO shirt(not required), please bring $13 on the first day or email us with size. All other information above also pertains to the CITS except the drop off times and procedures.
We realize the past year 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 Lydia Shreeve
Director Assistant 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 all new 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!
New this year: Aladin's Market Place exhibit: This interactive touch station will exhibit will show some cool animals in a middle eastern setting of a market place.
For ages 11+ . 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 5 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 ZOOM meeting training prior to camp in June 5th 9:00-11:30am. MUST be 11 years old or older.
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!
2020 changes: *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! Winner gets extra special treasure box gift at the end of the camp. (all of them get something at the end) and a picture with their group and trophy to post winners on our FB page.
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* we will be bringing in some FUN entertainment, whether it is a Magician, Training/DNR/park ranger guest speakers, a submarine, Rescue Dogs, or Dog Show...
*Fridays will be FIELD Days- where kids can play fun, outdoor field games and have Mr. Rob's Famous Snow cones!
This year, unfortunately 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 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, Owls from Irvine Nature center, and more!
All guests entering the building will be prescreened, temp checked and masks will be worn.
Or performers will be outdoors whenever possible.
Discounts: PLEASE ONLY USE ONE DISCOUNT PER REGISTRATION
$20 off each sibling discount per week of camp . Please use CODE: SIB20. CANNOT use on first child. Only siblings.
*Sign up for all 11 weeks of camp $300 per week/ $275 sibling * no other discounts apply
*Please note adjustments will be made if there are two codes used. We will give you the better discount.
We have a limited number of scholarships for those in financial need. Please send us an email explaining why your child is in need and deserves a chance at the scholarship. First come first serve. Deadline is April 1st, 2020.
Camp Policies
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.
*We charge a $15 non-refundable registration yearly campdocs fee.
*There is a $50 cancellation or change fee if you cancel within 3 weeks of the camp 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. Cancellation insurance IS available through camp docs. 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 2021 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.
This year as well, our sick policy is extremely rigid in order to keep your children and our staff safe. We will be prescreening campers and temperature checking daily. If a child shows up exhibiting cold or flu-like symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, fever, or stomach bug we cannot let your child participate.
*If your child has seasonal allergies (and thus a runny nose) or an underlying medical condition, we must have a doctor's note stating this and permission to participate. No exceptions.
*If your child gets sick during camp, the child will be isolated in the triage tent where he/she will wait with an adult to be picked up.
*In the past, we have been very flexible with make-ups but this year, we are not allowing make-ups unless the child has a doctor's note to come back and there is availability in another camp. No refunds or credits will be given. You may still purchase camp insurance should your child get sick during the camp (not COVID related reason to cancel). Please see campdocs.com for details.
* Make-up days are NOT credit and the make-up days must be made up by the end of the summer camp or next school year.
*If your child or a family member has tested positive, please contact us ASAP.
We will then contact trace and notify all parties of possible exposure.
*If a family member has contracted COVID- but your child is negative, you still have to keep your child home 2 weeks after the family members have completely recovered. We thank you for your understanding as we enforce this rule as so much is at stake.
We thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this very serious policy.
Before Care from 8am Or After Care until 5pm
Extended after care is now an option for $15 per day until 5:30pm
New Before & After Care Hours For Summer Camps:
Before Care from 8 am- After Care until 5:00 pm- this will be indoors. A movie will be provided- campers will be social distanced 3ft apart. Please let us know if you need until 5:30pm.
Price is $10/day or Both for $18/day
or $15/day for extended aftercare until 5:30pm
Our TAX EIN # 80-0921094. You can print out your campdocs account receipt with 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.
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 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 special 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, we are not trained professionals for special needs. 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 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.
PLEASE ONLY USE ONE DISCOUNT PER REGISTRATION
*For example: you can use either sibling or early bird whichever is greater. As a small family business, we thank you for helping us keep our costs down. Receive 2 free open play/Jungle Express/Earth Passes if you pay by cash or checks. (value of $26) Payment plans are available, please call to inquire.
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*Sibling Discount: $20 off for ADDITIONAL siblings for week long camps (not first child).
*Open House Disscount: April 10th $20 off each week-long camp online all day ONLY valid for this day -and automatically be taken off.
(no other discount can be applied)
*Early Bird Discount: of $10 off each week-long camp until March 15th . EB10 code
*Sign up for all 11 weeks of camp $300 per week/ $250 sibling * no other discounts apply
*Please note adjust.
ments will be made if there are two codes used. We will give you the better discount.
Out of State travel policy:
If your child is exhibiting any cold-like symptoms, nausea, or fever, or has traveled outside of the state, 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 7-10 days from the first sign of symptoms or upon return of travel OR bring us negative COVID test results.
If your child or family member has tested positive, please contact us ASAP.
If a family member has contracted COVID- but your child is negative, you still have to keep your child home 2 weeks after the family members have completely recovered.
There are no credit/refunds applied to your account but your child can make up the week of camp during the summer season of 2021 if space is available. please note: There may be a price difference.
Thank you for your understanding and your honesty.