Camp Dawes 2025 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 9-11
Urban Farming Revolution: Grow it, Eat it, Rock it! | Ages 12-14 | Zand Education Center
Young gardeners, do you want to learn the secrets of growing your own food? We'll dive deep into the world of urban farming, from sprouting seeds to nurturing seedlings. Learn how to grow a variety of delicious veggies, herbs and even some tasty fruits right in your own backyard. Plus, we'll turn our harvest into an amazing meal, proving that growing your own food is not only rewarding but seriously delicious.
Budding Artists | Ages 6-8 | Zand Education Center
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.
June 16-18
Wet ‘N Wild | Ages 9-11 | 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!
Nature Explorers | Ages 6-8 | Zand Education Center
Calling all budding nature enthusiasts! Venture into the woods, dip into the pond and peek into our gardens. Learn to use tools like binoculars, nets and magnifiers to explore the wonders of nature, big and small.
June 23- 25
Imagine, Create, Play | Ages 6-8 | Zand Education Center
Embark on a journey of imagination and creativity, fueled by fun! Experience a vibrant blend of music, history, nature and more. From creative construction to imaginative storytelling, we encourage you to explore and share your unique talents.
Wilderness Survival | Ages 9-11 | Red Barn Reserve
In this beginner's wilderness survival camp, 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. Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
July 7-9
Little Sprouts | Ages 5-6 | Zand Education Center
Popular children’s literature becomes an avenue for exploring the wonders of the natural world! Watch your child grow as each day we balance opportunities for quiet play and active hands-on fun. Engaging stories, open-ended crafts and non-competitive games are highlighted in this introduction to camp for our youngest explorers.
ArtVenture | Ages 9-11 | Zand Education Center
Adventure around The Arboretum to explore the unique colors, textures, and shapes that can be found in nature. Create artwork inspired by the beauty of nature and show it off at the end of camp during an art show for friends and family. Please note: If you have attended this program in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
July 14-16
Ultimate Wilderness Academy | 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 final outdoor challenge 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.
Water, Water, Everywhere | Ages 6-8 | Zand Education Center
Dip into water exploration in a whole new way! Hunt for water habitats. Search for critters. Play water games. Create water- inspired art. Discover the amazing role of this precious resource in our world.
July 21-23
Mad Scientists | Ages 6-8 | Zand Education Center
Discover your inner scientist as you conduct different experiments each day. Ask questions, collect data and draw conclusions all while exploring the natural world!
STEAM Through Time | Ages 9-11 | Zand Education Center
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through time and innovation! The past and present come alive in this fun activity-filled camp. Explore history topics through hands-on STEAM challenges, hikes, tours, crafts, old-fashioned games and more! Please note: If you have attended History Explorers in a previous summer, some themes and activities may be repeated.
Waitlist Available
Is the camp your child is interested in sold out? Don't worry! Select your camp and join the waitlist, and we will reach out to you when and if a spot becomes available. Click the link to access the waitlist: Camp Dawes 2025 Waitlist