Camps 2024

Please email bgoldentyer@capefearbg.org if you wish to be added to a waitlist for a camp.

SUMMER CAMP AT CAPE FEAR BOTANICAL GARDEN

Uncover the wonders of the natural world through outdoor exploration, art projects, science experiments, and learning games. This year’s summer camps include a mix of one-day, weeklong, and 3-4 day camps. We have new Culinary Connections camps for budding chefs and a growing Therapeutic Horticulture program for children and teens with diverse abilities. All of our camps instill a love for nature and focus on hands-on, fun, and outdoor learning activities.

FEES:
Week-long & Multi-Day Camps: $100/child ($80 for Garden Members)
Week-long Culinary Camps: $130/child ($110 for Garden Members)
Day Camps: $40/child ($30 for Garden Members*)

Summer 2024 Camp Lineup – WEEKLY & MULTI-DAY

SPROUTS CAMPS (AGES 4-6) – Please note that all campers must be fully potty trained to attend CFBG camps.

FULL! ~~Nature’s Treasures May 28th-31st 9am – 12pm~~
Young adventurers will uncover the wonders of nature! Join us as we delve into the world of rocks, flowers, feathers, and beyond! Get creative with decorating your own treasure box and kickstart your very own nature collection!

FULL! ~~Ready, Set Science! July 29th-August 1st 2 – 5pm~~
Prepare for an exhilarating journey into the world of science with our four-day camp designed to ignite curiosity and exploration in our youngest participants. Engage in captivating experiments as we blow giant bubbles, nurture seeds to growth, explore the power of magnets, and even master the art of levitating a ball!

EXPLORERS CAMPS (AGES 5-8)

FULL! ~~Curious Creatures: June 10th-14th 8:30am–12:30pm~~
Embark on a captivating exploration of the wildlife thriving within the Garden. Participants will explore fur, feathers, and scales, interact with live reptiles, participate in pond-side fishing adventures, construct bug jars, and go on thrilling critter hunts.

FULL! ~~S.T.E.M. Lab: June 17-21 8:30am-12:30pm~~
Immerse yourself in hands-on learning at this camp through interactive experiments, construction challenges, and outdoor expeditions. Dive into the world of science as we craft mini-lava lamps, design bridges and towers, explore the wonders of magnets, and unravel the mysteries of nature within the Garden.

FULL! ~~I Want to Be A… July 22-26, 8:30am–12:30pm~~
Imagine your child experiencing a day in the shoes of an astronaut, a veterinarian, a zookeeper or a botanist. Explore fascinating career paths through engaging hands-on activities and insightful guest speakers. Encounter live education animals, craft your very own stethoscopes, unleash your creativity in designing a zoo, and launch miniature rockets into the skies.

FULL! ~~Above and Below. August 19-23, 8:30am-12:30 pm~~
Embark on an adventure that takes you soaring above the clouds and plunging into the depths of the deepest caves! Campers will discover the wonders of both high and low realms through exciting activities such as engineering parachutes, cultivating crystals, experimenting with gooey worms, and exploring the science of balloons.

CREATORS CAMPS (AGES 6-10)

FULL! ~~Nature’s Muse. July 8-12 8:30am-12:30pm~~
Nature serves as the ultimate muse! Campers will delve into a myriad of art projects inspired by renowned artists and their profound connections to the natural realm. Craft nature object art reminiscent of Goldsworthy’s work, capture the essence of impressionism with finger-painted scenes à la Monet, and construct vibrant collages inspired by the iconic paintings of Georgia O’Keeffe.

FULL! ~~Wild Craft, August 5-9 8:30am-12:30pm~~
Create wild art with natural materials like leaves, sticks, and stones collected right from the Garden. Projects will include leaf mobiles, clay impressions, painted stones, and more! Each day will include adventures out into the garden, woodland trails and spending time crafting in the classroom.

ADVENTURERS CAMPS (AGES 8-12)

Seeds of Civilization. June 17-21 1:30pm-5:30pm
Get ready for an adventure through time with plants! Did you know that plants have been shaping history for thousands of years? From providing food and fabrics to creating medicines and even supporting military tanks with their tires, we journey back in time and explore into the fascinating world of plants. Campers will get to create their own papyrus hieroglyphics, craft healing herb sachets, weave beautiful baskets, and uncover incredible inventions made from plants.

Fungi Discoveries. July 15-19 8:30am-12:30pm
Embark on an extraordinary journey into the enchanting realm of fungi! Often mistaken for plants, these fascinating organisms are actually more closely related to us humans. Fungi play a vital role in supporting life on Earth, growing to enormous sizes, emitting mesmerizing glows in the dark, and even aiding in communication among trees. In this captivating camp, prepare to dive deep into the world of fungi as we explore their remarkable characteristics. Campers will create spore prints, cultivate their own fungi specimens, and unveil the astonishing diversity of mushrooms. Uncover the secrets of these mysterious organisms in a camp like no other.

Fantastic Flora. July 22-26 1:30pm-5:30pm
Prepare for a magical journey as we uncover some of the most enchanting plants from around the globe! From the stunning and mysterious lotus flower to the eerie and fascinating parasitic ghost plant, campers will explore the wonders of nature like never before. Activities will be packed with fun and excitement as we plant our very own mythical garden, concoct fizzing potions that bubble and brew, experiment with the secrets of herbology, and let our creativity soar as we invent our very own fantasy plants!

NEW FOR 2024! CULINARY CONNECTIONS CAMPS (AGES 9-13)

FULL! ~~Seed to Table. July 8-12 1:30pm-5:30pm~~
Campers will go on a delicious journey to uncover the secrets of how food grows, from tiny seeds and delicate flowers to the vital role of pollinators and sprawling farm fields. Tantalize your taste buds each day as campers cook and prepare exciting new dishes! Wait…that’s not all – we’ll also roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty as we grow and harvest food straight from the earth. Together, we’ll compile our culinary adventures into a recipe book to take home. Plus, you’ll hone your kitchen skills in the basics of culinary magic: measuring, chopping, seasoning, and sautéing. Discover the joy of food from seed to plate in a mouthwatering fun experience you won’t forget.

FULL! ~~Global Tastes. July 29-Aug 2 8:30am-12:30pm~~
Calling all young chefs for a culinary journey around the globe! Let’s whip up delicious recipes from various countries while exploring the rich tapestry of their geography, culture, and customs. Each day brings a new adventure as we journey to a different corner of the world. From experiencing exotic dishes to crafting souvenirs inspired by diverse cultures, we’ll immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of far-off lands. The fun doesn’t stop here! We’ll also share stories, games, and traditions from different cultures, unlocking the mysteries of some of the most incredible places on Earth. Join us for an amazing exploration filled with flavors, friendships, and fantastic discoveries!

SUMMER NATURALIST CAMP (AGES 11-15)

Naturalist Adventure. July 1-3 9am-3pm
There will be three days packed with excitement and discovery at our multi-faceted camp! We’ve curated diverse activities that blend science, art, nature, and adventure for an unforgettable experience. Campers will unleash their creativity with nature-inspired art projects, come face-to-face with live reptiles for an up-close encounter, unlock the hidden treasures of geodes as we break them open, and embark on a scenic hike along the picturesque Cape Fear River Trail. From experimenting with science to being immersed in the beauty of nature, each day will be filled with new experiences and opportunities for learning and fun. Let’s embark together on this thrilling three-day adventure!

FEES:
**Week-long & Multi-Day Camps: $100/child ($80 for Garden Members*)
Culinary Connections Camps: $130/child ($110 for Garden Members)**

Don’t Forget to Check out our Camp T-Shirt Deals when you register.

Summer 2024 – DAY CAMPS

Day Camp: Inventors Workshop (Ages 11-15) – August 13 9am-3pm
Hey there, young innovators! Are you ready to dive into the world of eco-friendly inventions? Prepare to roll up your sleeves and unleash your creativity! Explore the realm of environmental protection by crafting a functional water filter, dreaming up a hurricane-resistant abode, and crafting your very own mini-solar car. Let’s turn those imaginative gears and make a positive impact together!

FULL! ~~Day Camp: Scales and Slime (Ages 5-8) – June 3 9am-3pm~~
A day filled with the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians at Cape Fear Botanical Garden! This is an adventure where you’ll encounter slithering snakes, slimy salamanders, hopping frogs, and bumpy toads. Our camp is packed with exciting activities; meet live animals up close, concoct your own slime creations, feel the texture of snake skin and turtle shells, and explore the Garden in search of these incredible creatures.

FULL! ~~Day Camp: Color Explosion (Ages 5-8) – July 5 9am-3pm~~
Join us for a vibrant adventure as we explore the colors of the rainbow at Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s one-day camp! Dive into a world of colorful fun as we craft our own rainbows, use prisms to create dazzling spectrums, venture into nature to discover its vivid hues, and experiment with the magical art of color mixing. Let your creativity soar as we journey through a kaleidoscope of hues in this captivating and colorful experience.

FULL! ~~Day Camp: Secrets of the Earth (Ages 6-10) – August 12 9am-3pm~~
Begin on an exciting journey to unravel the mysteries of our ever-changing Earth at Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s immersive one-day camp! Engage with hands-on science experiments and nature explorations as we uncover the secrets of our planet’s formation and transformation. From modeling the Earth’s layers to investigating the causes of earthquakes, exploring rocks and minerals, and even building our very own exploding volcano, this camp promises an adventure filled with discovery, learning, and plenty of excitement!

FULL! ~~Day Camp: Legends and Lore (Ages 6-10) – August 14 9am-3pm~~
Investigate the realm of myths and legends at Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s captivating one-day camp! Explore the rich tapestry of ancient stories that have inspired generations and offered explanations for the wonders of the natural world. From crafting our own mythical dragons to engaging in a fairy tale-inspired STEM Challenge, we’ll embark on a quest across the Garden in search of hidden treasure, this camp promises an immersive and magical experience that spark the imagination and wonder of every camper.

Day Camp: Fabric Creations (Ages 8-12) – June 4 9am-3pm
Experience the colorful world of fabric arts at our camp, where creativity knows no bounds! Campers will have a blast weaving on looms and crafting hooked rugs, with each camper taking home fabulous projects. That’s not all – we’ll also explore the fascinating realm of natural materials and plants used for fabrics and dyes. Enjoy a hands-on journey where imagination meets craftsmanship, and where every creation tells a unique story!

FULL! ~~Day Camp: River Journeys (Ages 8-12) – August 15 9am-3pm~~
Explore the wonders of the Cape Fear River, the largest river system in North Carolina, as it flows right through our Garden! We’ll trace the river’s journey and discover the vibrant life teeming within its waters. Campers will have the opportunity to use nets to search for fish and tadpoles, embark on a hike down to the river’s edge, and even construct their own floating rafts. It’s an adventure-packed experience that promises exploration, discovery, and plenty of fun near the water!

FEES:
**Day Camps: $40/child ($30 for Garden Members*)**

Don’t Forget to Check out our Camp T-Shirt Deals when you register.

Therapeutic Horticulture Camps – Ages 8-13

Engage in the healing power of nature with our Therapeutic Horticulture Camps, designed to promote health and well-being for children and teens of all abilities. These camps offer a nurturing
environment so participants can connect with the natural world and experience its restorative benefits with adaptations as needed. Through interactive activities, campers will not only develop critical thinking skills and hand-eye coordination but also gain a newfound appreciation for nature’s beauty. Join us as we explore the outdoors through an artistic lens, fostering creativity, relaxation, and a deeper connection with the world around us.

We highly recommend that Therapeutic Horticulture (TH) camps operate as “drop-off” programs. However, if a caregiver is required, accompanying adults are welcome to stay.

FULL! ~~Natural Materials. June 19-21 9am-12pm~~
From foraging for natural treasures like small rocks and snail shells to crafting artistic projects, there’s something for everyone. Join us as we create pressed flower clay ornaments, woodland nature boxes, natural wind chimes, handmade paint brushes, and indulge in healthy snacks. Summer is a season of creativity, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Pollinator Friends. June 24-26 1pm-4pm
An enriching experience where we’ll create seed balls to support the environment and pollinators! Dig into the Heritage Vegetable Garden as we gather aromatic herbs like lavender, thyme, and sage to include in your nature journal, a keepsake of your botanical adventures. Embark on a tour of the Butterfly Stroll, where we’ll discuss the vital role of pollinators, and cap off the day by crafting your very own hand-rolled beeswax candle. It’s a hands-on journey through nature that promises to ignite your curiosity and deepen your connection with the world around you!

Junior Gardening. July 29-31 9am-12pm
Discover the world of summer vegetables and the art of gardening in an immersive camp experience. Gain insights into starting your own garden and understand its significance for the future. Attendees will learn valuable tips and tricks for successful seed starting, the best plants for a thriving summer garden, and master the concept of self-watering containers. There will be hands-on gardening projects and as part of the camp, we’ll visit the Heritage Garden. Campers should come prepared with closed-toed shoes, hats, sunscreen, and other essentials for an enjoying outdoor exploration.

Nature Expressions. August 5-7 1:30pm-4:30pm
Escape the heat and join us for Nature Expressions. Step indoors and dive into the intricate beauty of nature through an artistic lens. Get up close and personal with natural wonders as we study detail, create prints using materials sourced from the environment, sketch dragonfly wings, and craft unique jewelry inspired by the colors of nature. Nature Expressions is designed for art enthusiasts who seek to explore the natural world in creative ways. This is a captivating journey where art and nature intertwine, leaving you with newfound inspiration and appreciation for the world around us

ITEMS OF NOTE

Membership discount applies at Household Membership level, to include children. (To become a Member, click HERE.) To receive the member discount, parents and guardians registering the camper must be a current Garden member at time of registration and throughout the entire camp season.
Full payment is due at the time of registration. Scholarships may be available. Please email bgoldentyer@capefearbg.org or call 910-486-0221 x 43 for more information.
Camps will be canceled no later than one full week out if a minimum of six children is not met. Maximum of 12 children per session.
Children must be the minimum listed age as of the first date of the camp session – age exemptions with staff approval are sometimes made within one year of the age range.
CFBG provides a 90% refund of paid registration fees if requested up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the camp. A 50% refund is available for requests made up to 4 weeks before the camp start date. Refunds will not be issued within 4 weeks of the camp start date.
A wait list will be started if camp sessions fill up. If space opens in your desired camp session, you will be contacted and given the opportunity to accept or decline the space. Upon accepting the space, registration fees and forms will be due to secure your camper’s spot. Please email bgoldentyer@capefearbg.org if you wish to be added to a waitlist for a camp.

WHAT TO WEAR & WHAT TO BRING

All camps will go outside every day, weather allowing. Please send children dressed for the weather, with sunscreen and bug spray pre-applied and close-toed shoes (no flip-flops or sandals please). Dress to get messy exploring outdoors, creating art, and doing science.

All camps include a snack provided by the Garden with a fresh fruit or vegetable. For week-long camps we provide a reusable water bottle. Please bring a reusable water bottle for day camps. Campers may bring their own snack if they prefer. If the camp is from 9 am-3pm, there will be a lunch break. Please bring a packed lunch.

BEHAVIOR POLICY

Please review our Camper Expectations & Policies HERE.