At Camp Dawes, children can expect to journey through a variety of ecosystems, observe nature, create outdoor-inspired crafts and cultivate a sense of curiosity and adventure for the natural world, all while stretching their comfort zones and making new friends. Camp Dawes is The Arboretum’s summer day camp program, where children participate in both structured and self-guided activities under the guidance of our Arboretum educators. Offerings are for ages 5-14.
Camp Dawes hours will be 9am-3pm, Monday through Wednesday. Camp costs per child are $150 for Arboretum members and $188 for non-members. Member discount will be applied once you login and add tickets to your cart.
Click here for the Camp Dawes Scholarship Application.
Learn more about upcoming camp sessions below!
June 12-14
Wilderness Survival | Ages 12-14 | Red Barn Reserve
In this wilderness survival camp, learn the basics of outdoor survival. Some of the lessons will focus on fire building, shelter building, and using natural materials for survival. Practice team-building by completing low ropes activities and sharpen your skills for a treasure hunt that will put your knowledge and abilities to the ultimate test! Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
The Dawes School of Wizardry | Ages 6-8 | Garden Classroom
Calling all young scientists, witches and wizards! Take engaging classes in bugology, herbology and potions. Learn how to perfect your identification of magical beasts in this spellbinding wizardry camp. Be enchanted as you explore the fantastic natural world of The Dawes Arboretum.
June 19-21
Budding Artists | Ages 6-8 | Greenhouse Classroom
Get creative in nature! Explore colors and textures, experiment with natural materials, and use different artistic techniques to create your masterpieces. At the end of camp, show off your creations in an art show for friends and family.
Art in Nature | Ages 9-11 | Garden Classroom
Get inspired by the beauty of nature! Discover new ways to explore the outdoors by creating artwork using different mediums and techniques influenced by nature. Explore the unique colors, textures, and shapes found around The Arboretum. At the end of camp, show off your creations in an art show for friends and family.
June 26-28
Little Sprouts: Nature Explorers | Ages 5-6 | Garden Classroom
Popular children’s literature becomes an avenue for exploring the natural world. Read stories, make crafts and play games in this introduction to camp for our littlest campers. Each day balances opportunities for quiet play and active hands-on fun!
Wet n' Wild | Ages 6-8 | Red Barn Reserve
Cool off in the heat of the summer as you explore water environments throughout The Arboretum. Catch a fish, dip into wetlands and wade through a creek. Discover the diversity of aquatic life and witness the power of water.
July 10-12
Buzz, Flutter, Crawl | Ages 6-8 | Garden Classroom
Dive into the world of insects by catching and identifying bugs in the fields, woods, and ponds of The Dawes Arboretum. See insects up close, make bug crafts and learn all about your favorite creepy crawlies in this exciting insect-themed camp!
July 17-19
Weird and Wacky Wildlife | Ages 9-11 | Red Barn Reserve
Animals are fascinating, but they aren’t all cute and cuddly! Hike through The Arboretum in search of Ohio’s weird and wacky wildlife and the clues they leave behind. In this investigative camp, uncover the hidden wildlife mysteries of scat, owl pellets, decomposers and more!
Green Thumbs | Ages 12-14 | Garden Classroom
Gardening is an adventure in art and science and it’s time to get those green thumbs dirty. In this camp we’ll explore using plants in a variety of creative and unique ways. We’ll build hypertufa troughs, construct organic art installations, create edible containers, and design and install a garden bed for all to enjoy.
July 24-26
History Explorers | Ages 9-11 | Garden Classroom
Seeking a unique twist on the traditional summer camp experience? Look no further! Dive through the centuries exploring prehistoric fossils, the rich history of The Dawes Arboretum, and your own genealogy. Campers will travel back in time to uncover what life was like in the past through exciting hands-on experiences. These experiences will include a tour of the Daweswood House Museum, hikes, crafts, games, and more!