Positive experiences in nature create lifelong memories. Since 1991, Earth Focus Day Camp has provided outstanding summer nature programs for children. At the Arboretum, campers will gain an understanding of how ecosystems work, develop their sense of wonder, and discover incredible habitats, plants, and animals. Join us to learn, grow, and be a part of this special place.

Registration for 2026 camps will open on Wednesday, February 11 at 12 p.m.

About Earth Focus Day Camp

Camp activities include hikes, hands-on science exploration, nature play, outdoor games, and crafts. Campers are encouraged to wonder, explore, create, and work together. Returning campers will find new and exciting experiences every year. We offer three session types: Wanderers (half-day, entering kindergarten and grades 1–5), Explorers (full-day, entering grades 1–5) and EcoTrekkers (full-day, entering grades 6–8).

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 in mid-February. The registration deadline is three weeks before the camp session begins, but camps may fill before the deadline. Early registration is recommended.

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

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

Waitlist: If you complete a registration for a session that is already full, you will automatically be added to the waitlist. If a spot becomes available, you will be contacted via email to confirm the reservation and complete payment.

Registering multiple campers: Due to limitations on the registration system, only one camper can be registered at a time. If you want to register additional campers from your household, but the session has become full, please complete the registration so they will be added to the waitlist. Then, contact education@arboretum.wisc.edu to discuss options.

Cancellation policy: Cancel before April 15 to receive a 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.

Registration for 2026 camps will open on Wednesday, February 11 at 12 p.m.

2026 Camp Sessions

Wanderers

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

Session 1: Nature Detectives
Monday–Friday, June 15–19

Look, listen, and search for clues that tell us about the secret lives of animals in the Arboretum.

Session 2: Wild Things
Monday–Friday, July 6–10

Take a walk on the wild side through the prairies, forests, wetlands, and savannas of the Arboretum and discover the plants and animals that live there.

Session 3: Beneath Your Feet
Monday–Friday, August 10–14

Discover the wonder of underground life, including roots, critters, soil, fungi, and more!

Explorers

Ages: Entering grades 1–5
Full day: 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m., $375
Campers will be grouped according to age.

Session 1: Incredible Insects
Monday–Friday, June 22–26

Uncover the incredible behavior, habitats, and life cycles of our six-legged friends.

Session 2: Amazing Adaptations
Monday–Friday, July 13–17

Did you know plants and animals have superpowers? Discover how trees, bees, and other organisms have adapted to thrive in Wisconsin and beyond.

Session 3: Winging It
Monday–Friday, August 17–21

Look to the sky and you’ll find many flying friends at the Arboretum! Learn about a variety of winged creatures, including birds, bugs, and bats.

EcoTrekkers

Ages: Entering grades 6–8
Full day: 9 a.m.–2 p.m., $300

Session 1: Pondering Pollinators
Monday–Friday, July 27–31

Become a research scientist at the Arboretum! Campers will design and carry out a unique research project with a small team and mentor. Pollinators will be our focus area, but we’ll explore many habitats and other organisms at the Arboretum throughout the week.