Nature Day Camps
Register for Nature Camp!
Register for Nature Camp: July 21 - 25
Register for Field Biology Science Camp: August 4 - 8
Overview:
Nature is all around us, and here in San Ramon we have so much to explore!
From solar oven s'mores and animal tracking to splash days on the playground; campers learn real life skills and explore nature with games, crafts, and fun lessons on wilderness survival, natural history, field biology, environmental science, and more! No week is the same, come back all summer for nature-filled fun!
Field Biology Camp Details:
For ages 6 - 14
This is a full-day camp from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Crow Canyon Garden (114 Park Place, San Ramon)
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a field biologist? Wonder no longer! Campers will be led by trained, professional biologists in this week of engaging, fun science camp that also builds real life science skills and provides a window into career options for field biologists.
Kids learn science skills while drawing upon the natural world to solve real life engineering challenges through games, crafts, and hands on science experiments. Some topics that are included are biomimicry (like beavers and animal shelters), ecological engineering (like plant root systems, erosion, and water purification), learning about animal and plant biology, and using real scientific techniques. This unique field science camp is not only a ton of fun, it also prepares children for careers in STEAM.
Here are some sneak peaks of activities planned for this full day science camp:
Sound Mapping
Campers will slow down and tune into the natural world by using their ears! During this peaceful yet powerful activity, kids sit quietly outdoors and draw a "sound map" of everything they hear—birds calling, wind rustling, maybe even a buzzing bee! This builds focus, directional awareness, and a deeper connection with their surroundings.
Nature Shelter Challenge
Kids work together in teams to engineer small shelters using only natural materials. This challenge builds problem-solving, teamwork, and outdoor survival thinking—just like real field scientists preparing for remote research!
Cyanotype Plant Prints
Young scientists will harness the power of the sun to create beautiful blue-and-white botanical art. Using light-sensitive paper and collected leaves or flowers, campers make stunning cyanotype prints while learning about the science of light, photosynthesis, and observation.
Bug Jars
Exploration meets hands-on discovery! Campers use their homemade bug jars to safely observe insects up close, learning to identify local species and practice gentle, respectful handling. It's a perfect mix of curiosity, science, and fun!
Animal Tracks
Campers become wildlife detectives by making and identifying animal tracks using clay and guide sheets. They’ll learn how to “read the ground” for clues, just like real biologists in the field. Who’s been here before us? Let’s find out!
Nature Camp Details:
For ages 6 - 11
This is a half-day camp from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Monday / Tuesday / Thursday / Friday camp is held at Amador Rancho Center (1998 Rancho Park Loop Road, San Ramon, CA 94582) where there is access to air conditioning and water playground features for hot days.
Wednesdays are held at Crow Canyon Gardens (105 Park Pl, San Ramon, CA 94583). This historic 8-acre garden was once the MUDDs organic farm-to-table restaurant. The garden is a biological treasure and boasts one of San Ramon's few breeding populations of Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly. The garden also has access to San Ramon Creek for creek study activities, and dozens of edible and native plants for campers to practice plant identification with. It's an ideal spot for nature play.
Each Friday of Camp is "Splash Day" where the day's activities will be water themed, and campers will have an opportunity to get wet.
| Day |
Location |
Activities |
| Monday |
Amador Rancho Center |
Natural History, local history,
and biology themed activities. |
| Tuesday |
Amador Rancho Center |
Environmental science, field
biology, and botany themed activities. |
| Wednesday |
Crow Canyon Gardens |
Garden and Creek Exploration |
| Thursday |
Amador Rancho Center |
Camping skills and wilderness
survival themed activities |
| Friday |
Amador Rancho Center |
Splash Days! All Water themed
activities |
|
|
|
Did you join us last year at Nature Camp? This year will include new activities/curriculum and some of last year's favorites!