Campers in the Native Plant Garden for Earth Focus Day Camp

Explore and discover at Earth Focus Day Camp

Since 1991, Earth Focus Day Camp has created outstanding summer nature programs for children. EFDC helps children ages 5 to 14 develop an understanding of how ecosystems work, nurtures a sense of wonder for nature, and guides children as they explore the habitats, plants, and animals of the Arboretum. Join us to learn, grow, and be a part of this special place.

About Earth Focus Day Camp

The day camp consists of three programs: Young Explorers, Explorers, and Eco-Trekkers. Camp activities include outdoor discovery hikes and observations, hands-on science exploration, and nature games and activities. Returning campers will find new and exciting experiences every year. Children are encouraged to ask questions, play, and share, create, discover, construct, and cooperate.

Camp happens rain or shine. Campers must come prepared to spend time outdoors. A snack is provided (both morning and afternoon for full-day campers). Full-day campers must bring their own lunch.

Please complete one registration per camper. Registration will open at 8 a.m. on February 13. The registration deadline is three weeks before the camp session begins, but camps may fill before the deadline and early registration is recommended. T-shirts are included for registrations received by May 20, 2024. After May 20, T-shirt availability depends on remaining stock.

Financial assistance: Scholarships are available. If you need financial assistance, please contact education@arboretum.wisc.edu before you register.

Two-session limit: In order to allow more families to participate in the program, each camper can register for a maximum of two sessions.

Cancellation policy: Cancel before April 15 to receive refund of session cost minus $15 processing fee per session. Cancellations after April 15 and up to 3 weeks before start of session will receive a refund of half the session cost. No refunds for cancellations within 3 weeks of the session start date.

Contact: For questions about camp, including financial assistance, please contact education@arboretum.wisc.edu.

2024 Camp Sessions

Camp registration will open February 13 at 8 a.m.

Young Explorers

Ages: entering kindergarten and grade 1
Half-day, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., $125
Great for first time campers.

Session 1: Wildlife Wonders
Wednesday–Friday, June 12–14

Learn all about the animals of the Arboretum, including where they live, what they eat, and how they survive.

Session 2: Habitat Detectives
Wednesday–Friday, June 26–28

Follow clues to learn about the plants and animals that live in our forests, prairies, and wetlands.

Explorers

NOTE – all explorers camps are full

Ages: Entering grades 1–5
Half-day: 9 a.m.–12 p.m., $200
Full day: 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m., $365
Campers will be grouped according to age.

Session 1: Amazing Adaptations
Monday–Friday, half or full day, June 17–21

Discover how plants and animals (including humans) have adapted to survive in the wild.

Session 2: Wild about Water
Monday–Friday, half or full day, July 8–12

Explore Earth’s most important resource: water! Discover water in plants, streams, wetlands, and more.

Session 3: Winged Wonders
Monday–Friday, half or full day, August 12–16

Get to know the animals that make the sky their home, including birds, bats, and bugs.

EcoTrekkers

Ages: Entering grades 6–8
Full day: 9 a.m.–2 p.m., $265

Session 1: Insect Investigations
Monday–Friday, July 29–Aug 2

Discover the incredible patterns, habitats, and life cycles of insects, while developing and carrying out a unique research project.