Summer Camp at the Garden
Summer Camp returns to the Garden!
Nurturing a new generation of nature lovers
The Garden will launch our camp program this summer with 2 weeks of piloted programs. Children ages 5-10 are invited to join us this summer for a week of outdoor play, exploration, and connection. Campers will be invited to create, get dirty, ask questions, and seek answers in one of California’s premier native botanical landscapes.
As part of this pilot program, participant families will be asked to provide feedback on their experience to help us evaluate and improve our camp programs. See the Summer Camp Program Guide or the information below for more details on our camp programs and our discounted registrations.
Cost per camper: $250 $175
Our Acorn Adventures Camp (ages 5-7) is sold out, but scholarship spots are still available.
Fill out an application below to apply. If you would like to be added to our waitlist, please click below.Spots for our Plantastic Problem-Solvers Camp (ages 8-10) are still available.
WaitlistIn order to complete your registration, you will need to print and complete each of these forms.
Emergency Contact and Authorized Pick Up Form
Camp Overview
- Camps run Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm
- July 12-16 for ages 5-7
- July 19-23 for ages 8-10
- Camp registration is $175 per participant. Scholarships are available, see above for application.
- Each session will host up to 10 campers each
- Campers will be doing physical activities such as climbing natural materials, hiking trails, exploring the grounds, etc. Campers will need to be adequately dressed for these activities by wearing closed-toed shoes.
- In addition to adhering to the latest county and CDC guidelines, the Garden will have frequent handwashing breaks and a brief health screening upon checking-in. Sick campers will be asked to stay home and will receive a prorated refund, up to 50% of their total fee, for the days they miss.
- Due to the Garden's Conditional Use Permit, the Garden must close its grounds in the event of a Red Flag Warning. If sessions are closed due a Red Flag Warning or another emergency such as COVID-19 or a fire, participants will receive prorated refunds.
Instructor
Michelle Cyr is the Youth and Family Programs Manager for the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Michelle graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with a degree in Earth Science, with an emphasis on biology. Since graduating, Michelle has spent her career connecting youth to nature, with a particular interest in building children’s understanding and love for native ecosystems. She has worked for camp and outdoor programs at UCSB, the Santa Barbara Zoo, United Boys & Girls Club, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. In addition to creating and managing youth programs at the Garden, Michelle is the coordinator for the Garden’s California Naturalist and Project Learning Tree certification programs and is certified herself.
