Patriotic Survival Knots

Sunday, July 1, 2pm to 3:30pm

Join this patriotic celebration of learning knots. Learn useful knot making skills and make an old glory survival bracelet in time for the 4th. Must sign up for this event by calling (910) 646-4748.

Lake Waccamaw State Park
1866 State Park Dr
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450

For more information on Lake Waccamaw State Park, visit: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/lawa/main.php

Ocracoke Outdoor Classroom

Every Monday morning this summer, curious kids (and their parents!) can enjoy FREE Outdoor Classroom programs on Ocracoke Island.

Children in grades 3 through 7 are invited to participate. All programs begin at 10 a.m., last approximately 90 minutes, and are outdoors. Please bring water and a hat.

Programs are held at the NCCAT Outdoor Classroom located at the old Coast Guard station on the harbor, and are taught by Elizabeth Hanrahan, certified wildlife educator, wildlife rehabilitator and local resident!

In the event of rain, “Oysters in the Classroom” will be held at the Ocracoke Working Watermen’s Exhibit located on the dock at the Community Square.

July 2, 2012           Wetland Metaphors
July 9, 2012           Saltmarsh Players
July 16, 2012         Net Gain-Net Effect*
July 23, 2012         How to Read a NC Beach
July 30, 2012         Wetland Metaphors
August 6, 2012      Saltmarsh Players
August 13, 2012    Net Gain-Net Effect*
August 20, 2012    How to Read a NC Beach
August 27, 2012    Wetland Metaphors  

*Gene Ballance, local waterman and researcher, Elizabeth Hanrahan, and Hunter O’Neal, local waterman and student will do a cast net demo or crab pot demonstration.

The Outdoor Classroom programs are sponsored by Ocracoke Foundation, Inc. For more information, visit: http://www.ocracokefoundation.org/

Grandfather Mountain July Programs

The latest issue of the "E-Scape" newsletter has been released by Grandfather Mountain. Get the scoop on programs for children, ranger-led programs, the Highland Games and the first annual Grandfather Mountain Campout. http://www.grandfather.com/about-grandfather-mountain/e-newsletter/escape-2012-june/

Kid's Programming
Every Saturday is a new adventure led by a Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Naturalist! All programs begin at 10:30am and are included in regular admission.
7/7: Clouds!
7/14: Feathers, Flight, and Fun!
7/21: Habitat Discovery!
7/28: Wonders of Bees!

First Annual Grandfather Mountain Campout
Friday, July 27 to Sunday, July 29
A special opportunity to camp in MacRae Meadows and take part in day and night activities led by Grandfather’s naturalists and interpretive rangers.  Additional cost, reservations required.  On-line registration begins May 1.  For more information and registration details call  (828) 733-4326.
To download the online registration form, visit: http://www.grandfather.com/events/the-grandfather-campout/

For more information on programs and activities at Grandfather Mountain, visit: http://www.grandfather.com/

Indoor Activities to Beat the Heat

Looking for some activities to keep the kids entertained indoors this weekend? Check out this list!

1. Build a terrarium
• http://fun.familyeducation.com/activity/plants/39476.html
• http://www.writerbynature.com/2006/04/26/how-to-make-an-indoor-forest/
2. Make a butterfly house: http://www.writerbynature.com/2006/04/28/how-to-make-a-butterfly-house/
3. Play this indoor nature game: http://www.ohio4h.org/afterschoolag/activities/insectinvasion/games/Indoor%20Nature%20Game.pdf
4. Make recycled paper: http://www.writerbynature.com/2008/01/10/naturerecycling-activity-papermaking/
5. Check out books from the library about the ocean or the arctic
6. Rent nature-themed movies
7. Create your own nature-inspired board game
8. Play animal charades
9. Write stories or poems about how insects and animals stay cool on hot days
10. Get wet and stay cool in "Into the Mist," a new outdoor experience, opening June 30 at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, NC: http://www.ncmls.org/visit/events/mist
11. Make solar s'mores: http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/solar-smores-673886/

Beat the Heat! Visit an Environmental Education Center This Weekend!

The temperature forecast for NC this weekend could leave any of us feeling under the weather. Beat the heat by visiting an EE Center near you. We've got you covered from Murphy to Manteo!

To see an alphabetical listing or map of all the centers in NC, visit: http://web.eenorthcarolina.org/net/content/search.aspx?s=0.0.108.37430&btid=3&tid=38022. The orange button on the top right corner of the page lets you toggle between the listings and map.

Pollinator Garden Tour- *Canceled*

*THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO THE EXCESSIVE HEAT FORECAST*
Saturday, June 30
2pm to 4pm
Presented by Chatham Conservation Partnership


Join Chatham Extension Agent Debbie Roos and the Chatham County Beekeepers Association for a special look at the wonderful world of bees and pollinator gardens. See honey bees in a hive and learn about their life cycle and beekeeping. Guides will discuss the importance of bees and pollination, and show plants that attract bees and other pollinators. Visit a honey bee hive at the Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) campus in Pittsboro, then tour Cooperative Extension’s demonstration Pollinator Garden at Chatham Marketplace (visit the garden website at http://bit.ly/95ZS1C). The beekeeper will use a "bee cage" which is a screen wire enclosure for a hive of bees. Participants will stay on the outside of the bee cage so there is no need to wear protective clothing. The tour will begin at the CCCC-Pittsboro campus apiary near the Hwy 64 entrance for the bee case demonstration, and then participants will drive to the Pollinator Garden.

Register for this event by calling 919-545-8044.

For more information, visit: http://chathamconservation.wikispaces.com/Announcements.

Biotechnology Day

The NC Museum of Natural Sciences presents "Biotechnology  in Your Daily Life" on Saturday, June 30, from 9am to 4pm.


ISPE and Kelly Services are partnering with the NC Museum of Natural Sciences for the inaugural Biotechnology Day: “Biotechnology in Your Daily Life!” The goal of this event is to educate the public (scientists and non-scientists) about the effects biotechnology has on our everyday lives. Let’s help demystify biotechnology for families around the Triangle! Organizations (companies, educational institutions, non-profits) from around the state will be participating with hands-on demonstrations, experiments and crafts. There will also be speakers throughout the day.

Activities
Mobile Unit: Walk around a hands-on training unit
Color & Name the Nucleotides.
Practicing with Pipettes
Yeast Respiration Demo
Sep-Pak Purple Drink Mix Color Separation.
Micropipette & Gel Loading Station
Kool-aid Column Chromatography

To learn more about this event and get the full schedule, visit: http://naturalsciences.org/programs-events/biotechnology-day

Alphabet Hike

Friday, June 29, 10am to 11am

For a fun way to explore Lake Rim Park, go on an Alphabet Hike with your little ones. Children will enjoy the fun of a scavenger hunt as they search for the letters of the alphabet while walking the Border Trail. Each letter is a clue to something that is found in the park. This is a guided hike with a park ranger. Call to pre-register by the day before the hike. Space is limited. For ages 3-5 yrs.

Lake Rim Park
2214 Tar Kiln Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Phone: (910) 424-6134

International Mud Day

This Friday, June 29th, is International Mud Day! Document the mess you make by visiting the World Forum Foundation's website: http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/initiatives/nature-action-collaborative-for-children/international-mud-day-2011/

You can upload stories and photos about your day and see what others did as well!

Check out the following sites for some ideas

• Chasing Supermom- DIRT!! 5 Ways to Have Good Clean Fun with DIRT!!: http://chasingsupermom.com/2011/04/dirt-5-ways-to-have-good-clean-fun-with-dirt/
• Hands On As We Grow- 30+ Dirty Kid Activities: http://handsonaswegrow.com/2011/06/30-dirty-kid-activities.html

Nature Explorers: A Peek into Ponds

Wednesday, June 27, 2pm to 3:30pm

Many animals and insects live in and by a pond. Dip into the millpond to explore the diversity of life that exists there and get a firsthand look at many pond organisms and an understanding of what it takes to survive in the water. 

Admission: $4/child
For ages 9-13
Registration is required

Historic Yates Mill County Park
4620 Lake Wheeler Road
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: (919) 856-6675

To learn more about Yates Mill County Park, visit:www.wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill

Bat Houses and Sunsets

It's going to be a busy day for the rangers at Lake Waccamaw State Park this Saturday! Go check out the park and participate in these two events!

Saturday, June 23

Build a Bat House
11am to 12:30pm
Did you know that the United Nations has declared this year as the International Year of the Bat? A bat house is a great way to provide cover for wildlife, as well as to help control the insect population and pollinate flowers. Join a ranger to find out more about bats and their habitats. Meet at the picnic area. Must sign up for this event!

Saturday Night Sunset Opportunity
8pm to 8:45pm
Stay late tonight and view the sunset from the Lake Waccamaw State Park Pier. A ranger will be available to answer questions and talk about how unique the bay really is.

Lake Waccamaw State Park
1866 State Park Dr
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
Phone: (910) 646-4748

For more information on Lake Waccamaw State Park, visit: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/lawa/main.php

For more information on the International Year of the Bat, visit: http://www.yearofthebat.org/

Pollinator Party

Saturday, June 23, 2pm to 5pm

Come celebrate National Pollinator Week and the opening of the pollinator garden at Raven Rock State Park. There will be fun educational activies to learn about pollinators including face painting and art and poetry contests. Bring your artwork of pollinators or flowers and win a prize. If you would like to plant a flower in the pollinator garden please call the park office for a list of the different native plants to choose from and suggestions on where to purchase. Educational videos on bees and butterflies will be available for viewing. Fun for all ages. Learn why pollinators are so vital to our well being. Come dressed in a pollinator or flower costume, even dress up your pet.

Raven Rock State Park
3009 Raven Rock Road
Lillington, NC 27546
Phone: (910) 893-4888

For more information on Raven Rock State Park, visit: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/raro/main.php

Tips and Tricks for Hiking with Children

Think your days of hiking and backpacking are over now that you have little ones? Think again! Eco-Smart Parent has compiled a list of resources dedicated to getting you back on the trail and keeping your children entertained and happy. Don't let your kids miss out on some special family time while getting back to nature yourself! Check out the links below!

• Article in MSN Travel in Today with some tips and tricks to keep kids motivated
• http://todaytravel.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/01/11941049-hit-the-trails-backpacking-with-kids?lite=

• Washington Trail Association site dedicated to hiking with kids - includes a free newsletter and tips for hiking with toddlers and young children
• http://www.wta.org/hiking-info/children

• REI site with user submitted tips on everything from planning to gear to generating enthusiasm
• http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/kids+hiking.html

Nature Journals for Kids

Saturday, June 23 - 1pm to 2 pm
Creation Station: Nature Journals for ages 7-12

A nature journal is a diary or personal journal that records your responses to, and reflections about the world of nature around you. Create your own hand crafted journal and then practice using your observation skills to fill your journal with fun words, drawings and other nature notes. Registration is required.

Admission: $8/child

Crowder District Park
4709 Ten Ten Road
Apex, NC 27539
Phone: (919) 662-2850

Creepy Crawlies Give You the Heebie Jeebies?

Ever wondered about the smudge on your hand after swatting something without looking? Of course not! After all, what are mosquitoes good for anyway? For something, it turns out. Come find out what in this program about obnoxious bloodsuckers and other things with too many legs.

The Creepiest of Crawlies
Saturday, June 23 - 9am to 11am

Lake Crabtree County Park
1400 Aviation Parkway
Morrisville, NC 27560
Phone: (919) 460-3355

To register, visit: http://www.wakegov.com/parks/lakecrabtree/programs/default.htm

Great American Backyard Campout

Saturday, June 23

The Great American Backyard Campout is a one-night event for families, youth and individuals to camp out in their backyards or local parks and to discover the fun of being in the great outdoors.

Discover why it’s called the great outdoors. It’s because there’s room to breathe, room to grow, room to talk and connect. It’s because there’s no limit to what you can discover when you reconnect with nature. And the most amazing thing of all is that all that can happen inside a 4x6 foot tent.

Camping out in the backyard is an excellent introduction to this favorite pastime and the first step families can take to get outdoors and explore nature. Spend time watching for wildlife, listening for nocturnal creatures, gazing at the stars and telling stories around the campfire or lantern.

For more information, visit: www.backyardcampout.org

Jordan Lake Summer Camps

Register for summer camp at Jordan Lake for fun-filled days that include water quality studies, wildlife and woodlands activities, games, arts/crafts and encouraging stewardship of Jordan Lake and beyond.

Ages: Rising Kindergarten – 8th Grade (6-11 year-olds)
Cost: $275/week - call for discounts and scholarship opportunities
Dates:
Session 1 – June 25 – 29
Session 2 – July 23 – 27
Session 3 – August 6 – 10

Time: Monday – Friday,   8:30am – 5:30pm

Jordan Lake Environment Education
1434 Farrington Rd.
Apex, NC  27523
Phone: (919) 360-6418

For more information and to register, visit: www.jordanlake.co

Father's Day Weekend Roundup

Father's Day is just around the corner, and we've gathered up some great Daddy-centered activities for the entire family! Treat Dad to a great day in the great outdoors!

Noah's Landing Father's Day Fest
Saturday, June 16, 10am to 5pm
Sunday, June 17, 1pm to 5pm
Admission: $8/person | Dads visit half price

Forget ties and cologne. Introduce dad to more than 60 species at the Noah’s Landing Father’s Day Fest! Families are invited to tour the non-profit zoo and dig into family-friendly activities and games like a Dino Dig and a game to learn more about dads in the wild. The event will feature raptors from the Wildlife Rescue Center in Sanford.

1489 Live Oak Road
Coats, NC 27521
Phone: (910) 897-6624

For more information, visit: http://noahslanding2x2.com/Fathers.html


Father's Day Hike
Historic Yates Mill County Park
Sunday, Jun 17, 11am to 12pm
Admission: $5/family

Spend some quality time enjoying the great outdoors with your family while getting some fresh air and exercise. Develop your child's interest in nature and explore some of the tools that can be used to investigate nature. All ages welcome with accompanying dad. Registration is required.

4620 Lake Wheeler Road
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: (919) 856-6675

For more information, visit: www.wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill


Dad 'n Me
Durant Nature Park
Sunday, Jun 17, 1pm to 2pm
Admission: $3

Moms are always welcome, but this one is especially for dads. Spend an hour learning about dads in nature, take a walk to see what kind of dads you see, and make a craft especially for dad. Register 4 days in advance at reclink.raleighnc.gov. Ages 3-5 years.

8305 Camp Durant Road
Raleigh, NC 27614
Phone: (919) 870-2871

For more information, visit: http://www.raleighnc.gov/search/content/PRecRecreation/Articles/DurantMainPage.html


Daddy and Me Game
Crowder District Park
Sunday, Jun 17, 2pm to 3pm
Admission: $5/family

Hop, skip and jump over to Crowder District Park as we celebrate Father's Day! Bring the whole family out for an afternoon of games related to nature. Afterwards you can cool off with some refreshments. Ages 5 & up with accompanying adult. Registration is required.

near the intersection of Ten Ten Road and Holly Springs Road
4709 Ten Ten Road
Apex, NC United States 27539
Phone: (919) 662-2850

For more information, visit: www.wakegov.com/parks/crowder


Paddle Your Dad - Father's Day Canoe Trip
Lake Waccamaw State Park
Sunday, Jun 17, 4pm to 5:30pm

Join a ranger for a relaxing paddle down Big Creek. This is an excellent opportunity to show dad how much you care. Must sign up for this event.

1866 State Park Dr
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
Phone: (910) 646-4748

For more information, visit: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/lawa/main.php

Sssssssssssnakes!

Crowder District Park will be presenting four snake programs next week! Get in on all the slithery fun!

Tuesday, June 12
Nature Watchers - Friendly Snakes: 1pm to 2 pm
Ages 3-5
Fee: $4/child
Snakes are amazing creatures once you get to know and understand them. Learn about some of the common snakes that are found in the park, meet a friendly live snake, and find out why we should look and respect but not touch these helpful reptiles. Registration is required.

Nature Friends - Charming Snakes: 4:30pm to 5:30 pm
Ages 6-9
Fee: $4/child
Beautifully ornamented, snakes are silent and move slowly, until roused when they can really hustle! The fear of snakes is a serious phobia for many people. Learn about the snakes that are found locally, meet a live snake, and find out why we should look and respect, but not touch, these helpful reptiles. Registration is required.

Wednesday, June 13
Nature Watchers - Friendly Snakes: 1pm to 2pm
(same details as above)

Nature Friends - Charming Snakes: *2:30pm to 3:30pm*
(same details as above - *note the time difference*)


Crowder District Park
near the intersection of Ten Ten Road and Holly Springs Road
4709 Ten Ten Road
Apex, NC 27539
Phone: (919) 662-2850
For more information, visit: http://www.wakegov.com/parks/crowder/default.htm

Summer Adventures Camp

Lake Rim Park Summer Adenvtures Camp - Ages 9-13
Session I: June 18-22
Session II: July 9-13
Session III: July 30-Aug 3
Each session runs Monday through Friday from 9am to noon

Campers will develop outdoor adventure skills like orienteering, kayaking, fishing, archery and rock climbing. Your child will learn about nature and explore the environment while having fun and building confidence. Register by calling the number below.
Fee: $35+ entrance fee for rock climbing gym

Lake Rim Park
2214 Tar Kiln Drive
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Phone: (910) 424-6134

For more information, visit: http://www.fcpr.us/outdoor_programs/lake_rim_park.aspx

Marine Mammal Day

Discovery Place
Saturday, June 9, 10 am to 6pm

What makes warm-blooded, ocean-dwelling marine mammals so unique? Learn all about these special mammals including feeding behaviors, echolocation, identification, adaptations and more. Catch a chat from North Carolina Zoo and Roper Mountain Science Center experts about dolphins and even polar bears, or step inside the traveling inflatable GeoDome™ to experience a film about how Earth’s climate is changing.

Discovery Place
301 N. Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
Phone: (704) 372-6261

Free with museum admission.

For more information on Discovery Place, visit: http://www.discoveryplace.org/

World Oceans Day

Friday, June 8

On World Oceans Day people around the planet celebrate and honor the body of water which links us all, for what it provides humans and what it represents. This year, the focus is on inspiring young people. The future of ocean conservation is in their hands!

World Oceans Day was first proposed by the Canadian government at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. As a result of a United Nations General Assembly resolution passed in December 2008, World Oceans Day is now officially recognized as June 8th each year.

The Ocean Project and the World Ocean Network help coordinate events and activities with aquariums, zoos, museums, conservation organizations, universities, schools and businesses.

Celebrate World Oceans Day here in NC! Visit an EE Center along the coast or participate in an ocean program like the one below!



Out to the Ocean
Crowder District Park
Friday, June 8, 2pm to 3pm

Did you know that more than half of all life on Earth is found under the ocean surface? Discover how healthy oceans are able to support plants, animals and people for generations to come and explore how what we do at home impacts the oceans far away. Ages 8-12. Registration is required.

Admission: $4/child

Crowder District Park
near the intersection of Ten Ten Road and Holly Springs Road
4709 Ten Ten Road
Apex, NC 27539
Phone: (919) 662-2850

For more information on Croweder District Park, visit: http://www.wakegov.com/parks/crowder/default.htm

Transit of Venus Viewings

Tomorrow (Tuesday, June 5) an exciting astronomical event is happening!

Witness one of the rarest of predictable astronomical phenomena: the transit of the planet Venus across the surface of the Sun!

Ten Solar transits of Venus have been known to occur since the year 1396, with only SIX transits observed since the telescope was invented in the year 1608.

Don't miss the LAST of these events in the 21st Century on June 5, 2012 from approximately 6:10–8:30pm (sunset).

Here are five locations that are holding "Transit of Venus" events in North Carolina!

Discovery Place
301 N Tryon St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
5pm to 8pm - Level 3 - Museum Parking Deck
Information: http://www.discoveryplace.org/events/event/136/Transit-of-Venus

Museum of Natural Sciences
121 West Jones St. 
Raleigh, NC 27601
5:30pm to 8:30 pm - Daily Planet theater and 9th floor of the Green Square Parking Deck
Information: http://naturalsciences.org/programs-events/transit-venus

Morehead Planetarium
250 E. Franklin St.
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
5:30pm to 8:30pm
Information: http://www.moreheadplanetarium.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=news_item&id=665

Town Creek Indian Mound
509 Town Creek Mound Rd.
Mount Gilead, NC 27306
6pm to 8 pm
Information: http://www.nccultureevents.com/events_detail.php?g=8b268eac3ecb
http://www.nchistoricsites.org/town/town.htm

A Time for Science with the Carolina Skies Astronomy Club
Greenville Town Commons
Near the Amphitheater
6pm
Information: http://www.atimeforscience.org/2012/06/04/venus-transit/
http://www.atimeforscience.org/programs/carolina-skies-astronomy-club/

If you can't make it to one of these events you can watch NASA's live webcasts tomorrow!
http://sunearthday.nasa.gov/2012/transit/webcast.php

You can also learn more about the transit of Venus here: http://www.transitofvenus.org/

Intergenerational Veggie Garden in Greenville

This article by Michael Ambramowitz highlights a community garden at Greenville's Lucille Gorham Intergenerational Community Center. People of all ages plant and tend together while learning the basics of gardening. The garden is also integrated into the children’s applied math and science programs and serves as a source of fresh produce for the community.
http://www.reflector.com/ap/staten/nc-veggie-garden-used-teach-kids-who-shun-books-1088955

To learn more about the Lucille Gorham Intergenerational Community Center, visit: www.ecu.edu/che/igcc.

Get "Buzzy" This Saturday!

Johnston County Pollinator Festival
Saturday, June 9, 9am to 2pm

In preparation of National Pollinator Week, June 18-24, 2012, Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center and Johnston County Cooperative Extension Service will host a day of fun and educational activities for the whole family. Events include tours of pollinator gardens, "Create Your Own Bee" craft, the Great Sunflower Project-including planting your own sunflower in an environmentally friendly container, building your own native bee nesting bundles, bee story time, "What is Pollination" movie, visiting with vendors and beekeepers and viewing honeybee observation hives.
Bring a picnic lunch, see the live animal exhibits, explore the nature trails and experience the beauty and awe of Howell Woods.

Please wear the appropriate outdoor clothing and bring any additional gear that will make your outdoor experience more pleasant.

Contact Katrina McDougald at mcdougaldk@howellwoods.org or 919-938-0115 ext. 225 with questions. No registration required.

Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center
6601 Devils Racetrack Road
Four Oaks, NC 27524

For more information on Howell Woods ELC, visit: www.johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods/

Become a Naturalist at Prairie Ridge

Young Naturalist and Junior Naturalist Summer Camps
Prairie Ridge Ecostation
*(see dates and times below)

Exploring 38 acres of grassy prairie, lowland forest, ponds and a stream is the perfect pastime for budding young naturalists in this full-day program based at Prairie Ridge. Campers will have the opportunity to have a true field experience as they investigate hands-on the diversity of plants and animals living in these different habitats. Young naturalists will sharpen their observation skills and leave camp with a deeper appreciation and understanding for the natural world around them.
Prairie Ridge is located off Reedy Creek Road, close to Blue Ridge Road and the NC Museum of Art. All children must be dropped off and picked up at Prairie Ridge. No transportation is available between the Museum and Prairie Ridge.

Registration information: Registration required. Please visit the Summer Camp Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

If you have questions, please contact Megan Chesser at 919.733.7450 x 534 or megan.chesser@ncdenr.gov

*Young Naturalist - Grades 4-5
June 11-15, 8:30am to 3:30 pm
June 18-22, 8:30am to 3:30pm

*Junior Naturalist - Grades 6-7
June 25-29, 8:30am to 3:30pm

For more information on summer camps presented by the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, visit: http://naturalsciences.org/programs-events/summer-camps

Prairie Ridge Ecostation
4301 Reedy Creek Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
Phone: 919.733.7450 x675

Summer Camps in the Great Smoky Mountains

There are some exciting camps this summer in the Smokies. The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont has been offering youth and family programs to encourage individuals to explore the most popular national park in the United States! Make sure to check out these three camps below!

Smoky Mountains Family Camp
July 2-7

Spend your family vacation in the middle of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Surround your family with the magic of the mountains as you hike ridges, study wildlife, explore secret places, and take afternoon dips in the Middle Prong. This week-long adventure is designed for families that are ready to leave their cares behind in exchange for a week of unending family fun. Each day brings new activities in which to choose; hike in the high country, explore Cades Cove, search for salamanders, and enjoy fantastic evening entertainment.
Cost: $1,158 for a family of four ($243/each additional person). $100/person deposit required at registration.
NOTE: Although younger children are welcome, activities are geared toward ages 6 and up.

For more information and to register, visit: http://www.gsmit.org/familycamp.html

















Teen High Adventure Camp for 13-17 year olds
July 9-19

Venture into the heart of the Great Smoky backcountry, spending 7 days and 6 nights among a community of teenage outdoor enthusiasts like you! Grow as a leader among your generation in understanding outdoor living ethics, as well as learning firsthand about the animals and plants that call these mountains home. Become accustomed to the peace and pace where the sound of cars and civilization don’t intrude – where you can fall asleep to the sound of a wild mountain stream. At trail’s end there’s a hot shower waiting as well as a day of whitewater rafting...

Slip into the swirling mists of the “place of blue smoke” for a 10-day program that includes a 7 day/6 night backpacking adventure, whitewater rafting, and the chance to learn outdoor living skills. Wildlife, good friends, spectacular views, and great backpack leaders will accompany your journey. Program lasts from Monday mid-afternoon through the second Thursday morning.

Cost: $1,045
For more information and to register, visit: http://www.gsmit.org/TeenHighAdventure.html



Field Ecology Adventure
July 9-19

Come to Tremont and experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park from a field
scientist’s perspective. You will swim with the fishes and identify the myriad species that thrive in the Smokies or hold a live bird in your hands before it takes off to the treetops. Then after a day chock-full of adventure, you can sit under a starry sky and identify the frogs you hear calling to each other.
This camp is an opportunity for you to learn about the natural world and the methods scientists use to study it by participating in real science projects in the park. You will experience hands-on studies of everything from bugs to bears and fungi to birds. A camping trip and team projects make this a unique and exciting experience. Expect a mixture of field science and fun—swimming, hiking, stories around the campfire—all in the Great Smoky Mountains!

Cost: $1,045
For more information and to register, visit: http://www.gsmit.org/fieldecology.html

Lions and Tigers and...Ocelots? OH MY!

Big Cat Safari Summer Camp
Carolina Tiger Rescue

June 11-15
9am to 3:30pm

Dorothy and Toto would not be envious of these campers! Spend your days learning about tigers and other cool cats while hiking and exploring your creative side. Please register via the website - download an application and fax it back. Limited enrollment.

Fee: $300
Link: http://www.carolinatigerrescue.org/education/2012summercamp.asp