Article supplied by Conservation District
Registration is now open for the 2024 Summer Camp Programs at the Vermilion County Conservation District! Pre-registration and payment are required for the camps. Full details, including the registration form, can be found at https://vccd.org/summer-
With almost 4,500 acres between Kennekuk County Park and Forest Glen Preserve, children will gain appreciation and knowledge of wildlife and the great outdoors. Guided by experienced camp counselors, the activities will help children explore their natural world through hands-on discoveries, hiking excursions, and art.
Wonder Bugs
Grades K-3rd, $20/child
June 11, 9am - 11:30am
Environmental Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
Explore the wonderful woodlands of Kennekuk through books, activities, and a nature hike. From rotting logs to tall trees, come out and discover how amazing forests can be!
Creek Stomping Camp
Grades 4th-7th, $20/child
June 13, 9am - 11:30am
Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
Spend the day getting wet while exploring Willow Creek. Follow our Naturalists on an adventure in the creek while searching for aquatic life and observing animal tracks along the way. Participants must wear shoes and clothes that can get wet and muddy. Examples include old tennis shoes or water shoes and
their least favorite shirt. They are welcome to bring a change of dry clothes to put on before leaving.
Toddling into Nature
Ages 3-5, $5.00/child/session 1.25 hours long
Brilliant Butterflies - June 18 at 10:00am or 2:00pm, June 19 at 10:00am
Discover the caterpillar- to- brilliantly colored flying insects' life!
Turtles & Snakes - June 20 at 10:00am or 2:00pm, June 21 at 10:00am
Observe live animals as we learn about our shelled and scaley friends.
Environmental Education Center, Kennekuk County Park
Introduce young children to the natural world by exploring through songs, stories, activities, crafts, and more with a parent or guardian. Each class is organized around a theme and emphasizes active learning through sensory experiences, and movement activities. Toddlers may sign up for one camp or both.
Pioneer Kids
Grades K-3rd, $20/child
June 25 or 26, 9am - 11:30am
Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
What was it like to be a kid in the 1850’s? Join us for Pioneer Kids Camp to find out! Campers will hike to the Pioneer Homestead, make a candle, and prepare their own pioneer snack to enjoy.
Gone Fishin'
Grades 4th-7th, $20/child
July 2 at 9am - 11:30am at the Audubon Barn, Forest Glen Preserve
July 3 at 9am - 11:30am at Horseshoe Pond, Kennekuk County Park
Practice fishing from start to finish: bait your hook and care for your fish
after the catch. Learn to identify common Illinois fish. Campers will see a live ethical demonstration on how to clean, cut, and prepare fish after catching. All fishing equipment will be provided.
Young Explorers
Grades K-3rd, $35/child
July 9 at 9am - 3pm at the White Oak Barn, Kennekuk County Park
July 16 at 9am - 3pm at the Gannett Education Center, Forest Glen Preserve
During this fun-filled classic summer camp, your child will participate in a variety of nature adventure activities. Explorers will take a nature hike, roast a hot dog for lunch, discover wildlife, and create an arts and craft project.
Junior Explorers
Grades 4th-7th $35/child
July 11 at 9am - 3pm at the White Oak Barn, Kennekuk County Park
Junior Explorers will be able to enjoy a classic summer camp program, similar to our Young Explorers camp, but with nature adventure activities geared more to their age range. Explorers will take a 2-mile hike, roast a hot dog for lunch, discover wildlife, and create a unique tie-dye project.
Paddling Around Lake Mingo
Grades 4th-7th, $20/child
July 23 or 24 at 9am - 11am at the Lake Mingo Boat Ramp, Kennekuk County Park
Explore Lake Mingo in kayaks on a guided tour with District Naturalists. Learn about the diversity of fish, birds, mammals, and more that call Lake Mingo home. Kayaking basics will be covered. All participants are required to wear a provided life jacket.
