2010 Summer Science Camp Descriptions

Fledgling Naturalist (Ages 8-9) June 27-29

Fledgling Naturalist Camp is a great way to introduce young nature enthusiasts to the wonders of the outdoors. Campers will spend 3 days and 2 nights learning about nature on ONSC's trails, competing in Nature Olympics, and cooling off in the Kings River. A campfire and moonlit hike highlight this experience.. Cost: $275

Junior Naturalist I (Ages 10-11) July 7-10

Campers will spend 4 days and 3 nights exploring ONSC's trails, creating nature art, and learning about biology, geology, and astronomy. Campers will learn the basics of field observations and practice their skills while keeping their own nature journals and plant presses. Participants will take a day trip to the nearby Kings River to learn about river ecology and to cool off, then they'll get an introduction to caving in Keizor Cave. Cost: $400

Junior Naturalist II (Ages 10-11) July 21-24

This 4-day, 3-night camp includes an overnight camp-out at nearby Pine Creek and exploration of Pine Creek Cave. Campers will learn terrestrial ecology and geology. Participants will become wildlife biologists for a day by learning about animal tracking techniques and then tracking transmitter-equipped turtles in ONSC's box turtle research program. Participants will cool off in the Kings River and enjoy campfire experiences and reflections at the end of each day. Cost: $400

Senior Naturalist (Ages 12-14) June 13-17

Campers will get more in-depth lessons in biology, ecology, and geology along the trails and streams of rural Madison County in this 5 day, 4 night camp. Participants will camp 2 nights along the Kings River and explore the beauty and diversity of the stream while swimming and canoeing. Day hikes to nearby Fishtrap Bluff and a collapsed grotto with a hidden waterfall will provide students with an experience they will never forget. Following a cave ecology and safety lesson, students will venture into Whippoorwill Cave for an intermediate caving experience and investigation of underground fauna and ecosystems. Cost: $500

Ozark Field Expedition (Ages 13-17) June 14-19

Hike through the woods, paddle down the river, and crawl under the mountain in a unique 6-day, 5-night camp. ONSC's Ozark Field Expeditions Camp provides a unique experience for older summer campers to completely immerse themselves in the wonder of the Ozarks. Each year this camp takes participants to new places and offers new experiences. We will spend 3 days backpacking on the Ozark Highlands Trail, canoe down the Buffalo National River, and head underground for a caving trip (optional). Students will develop a deep appreciation for our natural world while experiencing the best the Ozarks has to offer! All safety equipment and most backpacking equipment will be provided. Space is limited and special registration is required; please call 479-789-2754 for more information and to register. Cost: $650

Ozarks Underground (Ages 13-17) July 12-18

Join the dark side and explore parts of the Ozarks rarely seen except by bats, salamanders and other cave critters. This intensive 7-day, 6-night event for older participants will be an event to remember! Campers will establish a base camp and make daily ventures into some of the most spectacular underground environments in the Ozarks. Special guest speakers and experienced cavers on ONSC's staff will provide more in-depth instruction in proper caving techniques, safety, and cave ecology then we???ll head underground to explore. Campers will learn about cave surveying and mapping and then practice their new skills while assisting in real cave survey projects. All safety equipment will be provided. Space is very limited and special registration is required; please call 479-789-2754 for more information and to register. Cost: $650

Art in Nature I (Ages 8-10) June 23-26

New for 2010! Campers will follow in the footsteps of great nature inspired artists at this 4 day/3 night camp that blends art, field science, and nature to create a unique experience. Participants will explore ONSC trails and creeks and then return to the studio to create from their nature experiences. Art classes include the Frank Lloyd Wright Way, Georgia O'Keeffe's Flora & Fauna, Let's Go Creeking, Ansel Adams Nature Photography and Color in Nature. ONSC and ArtCamp staff join together to offer an inspired camp experience. Cost: $450

Art in Nature II (Ages11-14) July 13-17

This 5 day and 4 night camp for middle school campers offers the same class selections from Art In Nature I (see above) with more in-depth lessons and additional classes such as What Would An Architect Do? and Abstract 3D. Participants may also have an opportunity for a caving experience and investigation of underground fauna and ecosystems. ONSC and ArtCamp staff join together to offer an inspired camp experience. Cost: $550

Ozarks River Odyssey (Ages13-17) June 21-26

New for 2010! Spend a week exploring the Buffalo and Kings rivers. Campers will learn about river ecosystems and conservation while paddling down the river and hiking on side-trips to waterfalls and other special destinations. Camp will include lessons on trip planning, safety, and camp craft. Special guest instructors will teach about the history of local settlers and the story of the Buffalo National River. Space is very limited and special registration is required; please call 479-789-2754 for more information and to register. Cost: $700

Dads in the Woods (Families) June 19-20

Wondering what to get a dad (or grandfather!) that has everything? How about a weekend outdoors with the family? This camp will feature guided hikes in Bear Hollow and the McIlroy-Madison County Wildlife Management Area. Learn about the amazing biodiversity of the Ozarks while exploring the hidden beauty of Tea Kettle Falls. Your family will join our team of turtle trackers and collect valuable information to help conserve these critters. No children under 6 years of age, please. Cost: $125/person

Right-click and save the registration form or flyer from the links below to register.