Summer Camps 2024 REGISTRATION OPEN NOW
NEW: Optional Friday Field Trips!
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2024
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*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 CANCEL:
- Three weeks of more. There is a $50 cancellation/admin fee
- Two weeks before the camp, there is a $100 Cancellation/admin fee
- Less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds as you were taking up a spot and we sell out unless we are able to cover your spot then we can give you credit minus $100 cancellation fee.
- If you miss the week - no credit or refunds are given. If you tell us ahead of time a make-up day will be given, if you do not tell us ahead of time you will forfeit the make up day. 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 throughout the school year provided we have space availability. This is not credit to your account and must be used for the same program.
*Credits are good for one year from the date given
*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 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.
CAMP 2024 Questions and Answers:
What are the new safety guidelines you will have in order to keep the children safe from Covid?
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.
*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 during the school year. See cancellation policy.
* 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.
- We spray our outdoor areas for ticks. However, it may be an unusually 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.
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 activities and age groups.
- 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. Supplemental Staff are high school-college students.
- 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 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.
Can I make changes to camp dates?
- As soon as you know, please contact us and we can make the changes provided if there is space available. If you cancel a camp for any reason, a make-up day or credit will be given. We ask you to notify us ASAP so we can give your spot away. (Please see the cancellation policy below)
What is your refund policy?
-
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2024
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*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. Credit must be used within one year.
*IF YOU CANCEL:
-
Three weeks of more. There is a $50 cancellation/admin fee
-
Two weeks before the camp, there is a $100 Cancellation/admin fee
-
Less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds as you were taking up a spot and we sell out unless we are able to cover your spot then we can give you credit minus $100 cancellation fee.
*If you miss the week - no credit or refunds are given. If you tell us ahead of time a make-up day will be given, if you do not tell us ahead of time you will forfeit the make up day. 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 throughout the school year provided we have space availability. This is not credit to your account and must be used for the same program.
*Credits are good for one year from the date given
Please see the cancellation policy tab.
How will groupings work?
- Children will be pre-grouped based on age/gender/ allergies/special needs/friend/sibling requests. 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 when registering or by June 1st.
- Friend requests: Keep in mind they will probably be in a mixed age group with other requests. If you give us grouping requests last minute (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. Upon registering, you will receive a “ What to Expect” email with detailed information and one week prior.
How will “drop off and pick up” work?
- Drop off for regular camp hours will be starting at 8:45 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. assistants will be escorting them to the car. If there is someone else picking up your child, we must have a picture of the pick-up pass OR 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 $13 will be collected for aftercare if not prepaid.
What about Before Care and After Care?
- Before care starts at 8:00am and after care ends at 5:00pm ($13 per day for each) with our administrative staff. Campers will be inside watching a movie. Please park and drop off/retrieve your child at the front desk.
- Extended Aftercare is available until 5:30pm for an extra fee ($23).
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, 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 and look for fossils, gems, and shark teeth. 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 (3 day camp). If there is a short hike local field trip, we will let parents know.
- Friday Field Trips: Every Friday we will have a special outing for a small group of campers, that correlated with the theme of the camp. Campers must be 7+ and registered for the full week of camp to attend. Space is limited!
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- The Camp Director will supervise any medication administration such as epi-pens.
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.
What if my child has general health concerns and 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 the 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 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. We encourage you to schedule a tour so we can help you decide if ECO Camps are right for your child as it is a fast-moving, full of activities camp and may not be a good fit for all children.
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?
- We ask that parents pack one snack and a lunch. We feel the kids deserve a little cooling off and a break at the end of the day. As a result, we will be providing a daily afternoon "ice 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, we do ask all campers NOT to bring in peanuts in their lunches. Please let us know of any allergies before camp begins. Snow cones and ice pops are nut-free- please feel free to check if your child is highly allergic.
Where will lunches be?
- Lunches will be starting at 12:00pm. Groups will rotate through the week between inside and outside. Inside we will show a movie until lunch is over.
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.
Can children purchase something from the gift shop?
- Children will have time at the end of the day on Thursday to go into the gift shop to make purchases one group at a time. Items are from $.50-$25+. Please no piggy bank coins will be accepted.
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 COVID precautionary safety protocols as we are known as one of the safest camps around! Schedule a tour today.
Important Camp Information BELOW
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)
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.
DISCOUNTS and CODES:
SAWYER REGISTRATION SYSTEM ONLY TAKES ONE DISCOUNT AT A TIME! YOU must choose which discount you prefer! Choose:
**FOR ONE CHILD, USE: * Early Bird Discount use code ECO15: $15 off your total order for FULL week camps (5 days), or $5 off your total order for day camps, use code ECO5. Expires 03/01/24
**FOR SIBLINGS: Use Code SIB for the second, third, or fourth child only
** 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.
**IF you sign up for 9 weeks of camp (FULL SUMMER) it is $400/week * NO other discounts apply- email to set up.
**Please note NO discounts can be applied after the purchase of camps.
*For any questions please email: ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com
| Date | Camp Theme *Field Trips (Optional) | Price |
|---|---|---|
| June 10th - 14th | Fun in the Sun | $105 daily/ $450 weekly |
| June 17th-21st | Eco Sampler 1 * MD Zoo extra $25 | $450 |
| June 24th - 28th | Camp Out! *Bear Branch Nature Ctr extra $25 | $450 |
| July 1st - 3rd | Wild About Art (ages 5-11) & Nature Photography (ages 8+) | $350 |
| July 1st - 3rd | The Ultimate Marine Biology Experience * MD Science Center extra $30 | $350 |
| July 5th | Pokemon: Gotta Catch Em All! | $105 |
| July 8th - 12th | Animal Caretakers & Training 1 *Robinson Nature Center extra $25 | $450 |
| July 15th - 19th | Marine Biology 2: Saving Our Oceans * Annapolis Maritime Museum extra $35 | $450 |
| July 22nd - 26th | The Amazing Life of Pets *MD Zoo extra $25 | $450 |
| July 29th - August 2nd | Wizarding World : Prisoner of Azkaban * Medieval Times extra $50 | $450 |
| August 5th - 9th | Animal Caretakers & Training 2: Creature Careers *Bear Branch Nature Center extra $25 | $450 |
| August 12th - 16th | Wizarding World 2: Goblet of Fire *Medieval Times extra $50 | $450 |
| August 19th - 23rd | Eco Sampler 2 *MD Science Center extra $30 | $460 |
| August 26th - 30th | Kindergarten Camp | $105 daily/$375 weekly |
Let your kids "Go Wild" this summer at Eco Adventures!
Fun in the Sun Camp!
June 10th-14th
Full Week $450 or daily $105/day
Start your summer off with a bang, and see firsthand why we won the local: Best Summer Camp Award! Kids will soak in the early summer sun and unwind from their busy school year at ECO. Every day will include exciting games, crafts, activities, and best of all…live animals...and lots of them! Participants will get to splash around in our Wild West gold panning sluice sprinkler, dig around in our fossil pit, and explore all that nature has to offer on the wild side! This one fills up fast so get after it!!
ECO Sampler Camp Weeks
ECO Sampler I: June 17th-21st & ECO Sampler 2: August 19th - 23rd
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!
Daily Themes: Order Subject to Change
Eco Sampler I- $450: Gold Rush, Mad Scientist, Super Mario, Animal Caretakers, Creatures of the Night ** Friday Field Trip: MD Zoo extra $25. Space is Limited
Eco Sampler 2- $465: Wizarding World, Marine Biology, African Safari, Jurassic Park, Kung Fu Panda ** Friday Field Trip: MD Science Center extra $30. Space is Limited
ECO SAMPLER I & II Themes:
Gold Rush!
Wizarding World
Mad Scientist
Marine Biology
Super Mario
Madagascar: Back to Africa!
Animal Caretakers
Jurassic World
Creatures of the Night
Kung Fu Panda
Weekly Themed Summer Camps 2024
Camp Out!
June 24th-28th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Bear Branch Nature Center extra $25
Kids, get ready for a throwback, a good ol' fashioned, old-school campout!!! No building a fort in the living room, no backyard snooze fest, but rather a breath of fresh air on the wild side, with legitimate camp-out fun! That's right, we’re pitching tents, reading the stars, navigating with a compass, studying nature, building shelters, and we may even dig a latrine!!! There will be plenty of teamwork, competitions, problem-solving, and group activities, as campers vie for the renowned best "shelter/campsite". Throw in more live animals than you can shake a stick at, and you've got a Camp Out Extraordinaire!!
Nature Photography
July 1st-3rd
$350
Ages 8+
Get your kicks with some wildlife pics! Unleash your inner artist in a 3-day wildlife photography camp, with Eco Adventures' very own photography experts in KinderFarm Park. Campers will use their own digital cameras to capture animal and natural scenes as they work to get that perfect shot. Capture a rainbow of colors in the flower and vegetable garden. Hike through the Bamboo forest to the pond and catch and snap a turtle basking on a rock. What about that ray of sunlight that beams across the barnyard floor or those baby farm animals snuggling with their mom. The possibilities are endless! Campers will design and create a scrapbook of their favorite pictures to take home- a keepsake of their incredible photo shoot camp with Eco experts!
Wild About Art
July 1st-3rd
$350
Get ready to unleash your expressive side and go wild...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 a boring old crayon camp, (no way!) participants will be utilizing watercolors, 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!
NEW! The Ultimate Marine Biology Experience
July 1st-3rd
$350
*Field Trip: MD Science Center extra $30
So you want to be a Marine Biologist...well you're in luck and have come to the right place. With all NEW informative and interactive activities, making it the ultimate experience! This summer we will be taking a BITE of fun, as campers investigate SHARKS, WHALES, and other marine animals as never before. Campers will test their skill at tonging for oysters like our very own Chesapeake Bay watermen, search for shark teeth, and dig for fossils. Many of our oysters contain pearls, and campers will learn how to open them up, locate the pearl, clean it up, and wait for it…they get to keep it! A real Pearl! In addition, our young marine biologists will get to enjoy sea turtle-tacular activities with live animals, experience marine animal rescues, learn about sea creature misconceptions, perform experiments, learn from expert guest speakers, and take part in loads of marine-based activities, all under the direction of our credentialed marine biologists!! Salt is in the air this week, so get ready to dive into the deep blue sea. Sign up quickly, because this is one of our most popular camps every summer...space goes fast!
Pokemon: Gotta Catch 'Em All!
July 5th
$105
This camp is for all Poke Masters, Trainers and aspiring trainers! Travel through different regions to discover and collect as many Pokemon as you can. Keep track of your pokemon in your Pokedex, battle trainers to level up your pokemon and learn to care for your pokemon! But make sure you keep a lookout! Team Rocket could be lurking behind every corner waiting to cause CHAOS!
Animal Caretakers and Training 1
July 8th-12th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Robinson Nature Center extra $25
If working with animals has been your dream, this is the camp for you! In this popular camp you will learn about caring for Eco’s wide variety of animals! Throughout the week campers will learn from our animal keepers how to feed, train, design an enclosure and make enrichment for our animals. Do you want to be a veterinarian, zookeeper, herpetologist, entomologist or any other -ologist? Hear from professionals in the field about their careers, responsibilities and some of the most fun things they do in their jobs! All week long campers will be assigned an Eco animal to take care of, feeding, cleaning, giving toys to and training! See if you have what it takes to be a responsible pet keeper. 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 enrichment toys for a kinkajou or a macaw, and feeding gators and crocs. Sign up today and get a head start in these amazing creature careers!
Marine Biology: Saving Our Oceans
July 15th-19th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Annapolis Maritime Museum
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 camp focuses on creating young caretakers for our oceans through creativity, imagination, and engineering in countless ways kids can assist our seas! The journey begins in our own backyard, the Chesapeake Bay, where we will learn about wetlands, tong for oysters, and even dissect an oyster with a real pearl (you get to keep the pearl!!)! Campers might even come across a pirate along the way...they love to hang out around the Bay! The week-long adventure continues as we wade into the shallow waters of coral reefs and explore its many creatures, like sea stars, colorful fish, sea urchins, and crabs found in the Caribbean… Young marine biologists will also get to create their own bioluminescent marine deep-water creatures, learn about SHARKS and even dissect one! YIKES! Also on the agenda, is a dive into our fossil dig to uncover ancient marine fossils and real shark teeth! There will even be a mock animal rescue with a real life marine biologist on hand! Lastly, they will also have a group project to get their imagination juices flowing by creating some equipment or machine prototypes with recyclables to help prevent plastics from entering our oceans and making reusable items from recyclables! The winners will be judged by our special guest: Mr. Trashwheel! Salt is in the air this week, so get ready to dive into the clear, blue sea.
NEW! The Amazing Life of Pets
July 22nd-26th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: MD Zoo extra $25
Pets are some of our best friends, so why not dedicate a summer camp to them?? That's exactly what we have done in this brand-new summer adventure. No matter whether your pets are puppies, kittens, lizards, snakes, or even spiders, they give us so much happiness and enjoyment, however, that enjoyment has a price, and they require a lot of attention and care. Every animal has specific needs and relies on its caretaker to survive, thrive, and be happy! In this camp, we will talk about what animals make good pets and what animals don't. The pros and cons of pet ownership. What do they need? What foods do they eat? When do they need to go to the vet? Enrichment and training requirements? Is it difficult to take care of them? All the questions will be answered in this animal lover week-long adventure. Each day will have a different theme with loads of LIVE animal friends! Get ready for puppy/dog day, cat/bunny/small mammal day, reptiles and amphibians, birds, fish, and other aquatic animals...and much more!! At the end of the week, campers will use all that they have learned about being a responsible pet owner, and receive a special certificate, acknowledging their expertise in all things pets.
Wizarding World: The Prisoner of Azkaban
July 29th-August 2nd
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Medieval Times extra $50
Grab your boomsticks, cauldrons, and owls, and board the Hogwarts Express! Here at the Eco School of magic, students will design their own magic wands, learn to cast spells, brew potions and much more! Don’t forget about our FAVORITE class, Care of Magical Creatures, where campers will meet all sorts of marvelous and magical animals! This year at the Eco School of Magic you may notice a few dementors lingering around campus, but don't be alarmed, for we have spells for protection. Campers will have to be vigilant this week and be on the lookout for an escaped prisoner from the wizard prison, Azkaban! Maybe we can even catch him!!! This year students will be permitted to visit Hogsmeade Village, where they can try Butterbeer at The Three Broomsticks Emporium, and also try their hand at identifying the flavors of Berty Botts Every Flavor Bean when they visit Honeydukes Sweet Shop! And, word on the street is, that our young wizards will get a top-secret lesson in the magical arts from a visiting Master Magician!
Get your wand out and sign up now!!! (Muggles will also be allowed to attend....but PLEASE no House Elves!)
Animal Caretakers & Training 2: Creature Careers
August 5th-9th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Bear Branch Nature Center extra $25
This is one of our most popular camps and it fills up so fast we had to add another! Welcome to Animal Caretakers and Training 2: Creature Careers! If working with animals has been your dream, then this is the camp for you! This week, campers will get to experience different careers 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. There will be plenty of guest animal career experts to inspire young animal caretakers! 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 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!
Wizarding World 2: The Goblet of Fire
August 12th-16th
$450
*Friday Field Trip: Medieval Times extra $50
Calling all 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 our magical world, it’s the 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 also get to meet magical creatures like a real unicorn (yes you read that right), Scabbers the rat, Trevor the Toad, and even the giant snake Nagini!! 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 butterbeer and Bertie Botts every flavor of beans (including ear wax and snot) --YUM! End the week with a special magician celebration with all the winners of the Goblet of Fire! (Muggles are encouraged to attend!)
Kindergarten Camp
August 26th-30th
$105 Daily or $375 Full Week
*Price includes staggered day back
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
Registration NOW OPEN!! SPACE IS LIMITED! Go...go...go!
"Walk on the Wildside" Field Trip Camp
July 1st-3rd
8:30am-3:30pm
$360 Ages 7+
3 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! 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 Patapsco State Park, Sandy Point and Severn River
**Field trips subject to change at anytime
Fossil Beach Trip- St. Leonards
July 17th
8:30AM - 4:30PM
Ages 7+
$120
Space is limited!
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 12.
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
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
Wonder what it is like to be a zookeeper? Led by one of our animal keepers, this in-depth experience is for 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 also 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 six participants per day!! Perfect for aspiring Jr. Assistants
Camp Policies
Please let us know of any allergies in advance. Child must have Doctor's form filled out for any EpiPens or medications. We can only administer life saving medications. Parents must administer any non-life saving medicines.
*Please note that we do have some animals that eat peanuts/nuts but will not be around any human eating areas.
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. 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 (parents must administer any non-life saving medications), 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 saving 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 school year if space is available. Please note: there may be a price difference.
Thank you for your understanding and your honesty.
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2024
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*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. Credit must be used within one year.
*IF YOU CANCEL:
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Three weeks of more. There is a $50 cancellation/admin fee
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Two weeks before the camp, there is a $100 Cancellation/admin fee
- Less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds as you were taking up a spot and we sell out unless we are able to cover your spot then we can give you credit minus $100 cancellation fee.
- If you miss the week - no credit or refunds are given. If you tell us ahead of time a make-up day will be given, if you do not tell us ahead of time you will forfeit the make up day. 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 throughout the school year provided we have space availability. This is not credit to your account and must be used for the same program.
*Credits are good for one year from the date given
Please see the cancellation policy tab.
*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 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.
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 admin fee as you were taking up a spot.
Eco Adventures 2024 Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy- see top of the page and click on the button
Current Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy 2024
*If you need to cancel a camp, kindly let us know as soon as possible so we can release your space.
*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.
*There is a $25 cancellation/admin fee if you cancel over 3 weeks out.
*If you cancel less than 3 weeks before the camp, there is a $50 fee.
*If you cancel less than 1 week, there are no credits or refunds.
*If you cancel 2 weeks before, you lose half the value of the camp credit as you have taken up an eligible spot and a $50 cancellation fee will apply. 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.
*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. If you tell us ahead of time a make up day will be given, if you do not tell us ahead of time you will forfeit the make up day. 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 throughout the school year provided we have space availability. This is not credit to your account and must be used for the same program.
*Credits are good for one year from the date given
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*Before Care starting at 8am Or After Care until 5pm
Price is $13/day (please inquire)
Both Before AND After Care is $125 for the week.
Extended after care is now an option until 5:30pm for $10 additional fee - please inquire as it is not an option online....email us ecoadventureslydia@gmail.com
* This will be indoors. A movie will be provided
Our TAX EIN # 80-0921094. Your registration email receipt can be used for tax purpose and has our tax ID number.
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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.
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.
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 7th 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.
*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!
*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!
*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 "ice 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.
*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.
DISCOUNTS and CODES:
SAWYER REGISTRATION SYSTEM ONLY TAKES ONE DISCOUNT AT A TIME! YOU must choose which discount you prefer! Choose:
**FOR ONE CHILD, USE: * Early Bird Discount use code ECO15: $15 off your total order for FULL week camps (5 days), or $5 off your total order for day camps, use code ECO5. Expires 03/01/24
**FOR SIBLINGS, the better discount is the sibling discount, which 6% is automatically taken off for the SECOND sibling and after. 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.
**IF you sign up for 9 weeks of camp (FULL SUMMER) it is $400/week * NO other discounts apply- email to set up.
**Please note NO discounts can be applied after the purchase of camps.
*For any questions please email: ecoadventuresmd@gmail.com