Camp Dawes 2024 will be here in no time! Join us this summer to explore, learn and have fun on our grounds. We will have something for every age range (5-14) that will spark curiosity regarding the great outdoors! 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. Experience all of this while stretching comfort zones and making new friends!
Early registration for members will open on January 15. For non-members, registration will be open on February 1.
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.
Scholarships are available. Click here for the Camp Dawes Scholarship Application.
CAMP SESSIONS:
June 10-12
Garden Design Challenge| Ages 12-14| Zand Garden Classroom
Come grow your green thumb as we get down and dirty with the art of gardening. Each team will develop a design pitch and together we’ll create a new garden within the Arboretum while we also explore how to use plants in fun and unique ways. Design and build planters to also enjoy at home. Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
Weird & Wacky Wildlife| Ages 6-8| 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!
June 17-19
Imagine, Create, Play| Ages 9-11| Red Barn Reserve
Embark on a journey of imagination and creativity! Experience a vibrant blend of art, movement, music, history, nature and more. From creative construction to discovering the magic of storytelling, this camp encourages young minds to explore their unique talents.
Garden STEM| Ages 6-8| Zand Garden Classroom
Adventure to the beautiful gardens on The Arboretum’s grounds through the lens of science, technology, engineering, and math! Through a variety of experiments, games, crafts, and projects, campers can expect to gain skills in thinking scientifically and observing the world around them. What will you discover in the garden?
June 24- 26
The Dawes School of Wizardry: Magical Creatures| Ages 6-8| Zand Garden Classroom (SOLD OUT)
Calling all wizards! Be enchanted as you explore the fantastic natural world of The Dawes Arboretum! You will study owls, make wands and learn all about fantastic beasts big and small.
July 8-10
Little Sprouts| Ages 5-6| Zand 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 youngest campers. Each day we balance opportunities for quiet play and active hands-on fun!
Wilderness Survival| Ages 9-11| Red Barn Reserve (SOLD OUT)
In our wilderness survival camp, you will learn basic skills that will prepare you for experiencing the outdoors. Lessons will focus on navigation, wild edibles, shelter building, and more! Sharpen your skills for a final challenge that will put your knowledge and abilities to the ultimate test.
July 15-17
ArtVenture| Ages 9-11| Zand Garden Classroom
Venture around The Arboretum to inspect the unique colors, textures, and shapes that can be found in nature. Create artwork inspired by the beauty of the outdoors and show it off at the end of camp during an art show for friends and family.
NSI: Nature Science Investigation| Ages 12-14| Red Barn Reserve
Do you have a passion for plants, wildlife, and the environment? There is so much you can learn from nature when you dig deeper and investigate! In this camp session, gain hands-on experience in nature observation, practice species identification, and learn about sustainability.
July 22-24
History Explorers| Ages 9-11| Zand Garden Classroom
Venture aboard a time-traveling journey for curious minds! From prehistoric times to recent history – learn how clues from the past can tell us stories today. Let the past come alive through hands-on exploration, hikes, tours, crafts, old-fashioned games and more! Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
Buzz, Flutter, Crawl| Ages 6-8| Red Barn Reserve (SOLD OUT)
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 during this exciting insect-themed camp! Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.