Summer Nature Day Camps

Summer camps return to McCloud Nature Park and W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park in 2025, 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 Feb. 1, 2025. On-site registration is not available.

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

Little Explorers

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: $12/camp (includes camper and guardian)

Young Adventurers

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: $25/camp

2025 Summer Nature Day Camps

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!

Little Explorers: Tuesday, June 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Young Adventurers: Thursday, June 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Survivors Camp (W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park)

Gear up for Survival 101! We’re diving into essential survival skills, mastering map and compass navigation, and tackling thrilling wilderness challenges. Ready for an adventure? Dress for the elements and prepare for some wild fun at this action-packed survival camp!

Little Explorers: Tuesday, June 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Young Adventurers: Thursday, June 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Naturalist for a Day (W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park)

Become a Naturalist for a Day! Join us as we dive into the world of naturalists, exploring animal care, and discovering the basic ecology of Indiana. Campers will get hands-on experience with local wildlife, learn to observe and identify plants and animals and understand the role of a naturalist in preserving our environment. It’s a day of adventure and learning in the heart of nature!

Little Explorers: Tuesday, July 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Young Adventurers: Thursday, July 10 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!

Little Explorers: Tuesday, July 22 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Young Adventurers: Thursday, July 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.