Summer Nature Day Camps

Summer camps return to McCloud Nature Park and W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park in 2026, and they are better than ever! All camps focus on one topic for that week and include hands-on activities, games, crafts and more! All camps are taught by Hendricks County Parks & Recreation naturalists who have passed background checks and have experience teaching campers of all ages.

Advance registration is required for all camps. Registration opens March 1, 2026. On-site registration is not available.

Many of our camps fill up very quickly, so don't delay in signing up!


Tadpoles

Young children and their parent/guardian will participate together in age-appropriate nature activities. Children must attend with a parent or guardian.

  • Ages 2-6 with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 7-8 may also register and attend)
  • Tuesdays
  • 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Fee: $15/camp (includes camper and guardian)

Frogs

The park naturalists are taking young adventurers to the next level for these camps! These are drop-off programs.

  • Ages 7-12
  • Thursdays
  • 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (campers must pack their lunch)
  • Fee: $30/camp

2026 Summer Nature Day Camps

Fishing Frenzy (W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park)

Join us as we dip our toes into the vast waters of fishing. Campers will learn some of the different types of fish they could find in our pond, and will get the opportunity to learn how to use some real fishing equipment. There will also be fun fish themed activities. Equipment is provided, but feel free to bring your own!

Tadpoles: Wednesday, June 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Frogs: Friday, June 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.


Exploring Nature (McCloud Nature Park)

Join us for a day of nature filled fun! There is so much to explore and discover in the outdoors at McCloud Nature Park! We'll start the day meeting the critters in the nature center, then we will set off on a hike around the park. Our naturalist's will guide campers on activities, such as games and nature journaling.

Tadpoles: Wednesday, June 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Frogs: Friday, June 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.


Water Warriors (McCloud Nature Park)

Uncover the hidden world beneath the water’s surface. We’ll learn about ecosystems, collect samples, and observe creek life up close and then end the day with a super fun water slide!

Tadpoles: Wednesday, July 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Frogs: Friday, July 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.


Get Messy! (McCloud Nature Park)

Time to get your hands dirty! Make mud pies, paint with sticks, and play games that WILL earn a few grass stains. Bring a change of clothes for this one!

Tadpoles: Wednesday, July 22 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Frogs: Friday, July 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.