Yampatika's summer programs provide children hands-on opportunities to explore their natural surroundings in a safe, professional atmosphere. Each program is theme-based and designed to inspire environmental stewardship through education. Programs are age-specific and led by experienced naturalists. No two programs are alike so feel free to enroll your child for each camp in his or her age group!
All programs take place at Yampatika's Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch. The Ranch was homesteaded in 1899. Its historic structures provide natural opportunities for learning about our region's agricultural and ranching history. Its 132 acres of hay meadows, pastures, wetlands and riparian areas provide ample opportunity for nature exploration in the field. The Environmental learning Center is located near the intersection of Highway 40 and 131 just outside the city limits.
Each program is open to 8 - 12 participants, depending on the program. Payment is necessary to reserve your spot. A minimum of 2-4 participants is needed for each program. Please review Yampatika's cancellation policy before you begin the registration process.
We offer need-based scholarships and hope that you will apply if you need it. Application forms are available at Scholarships.
Yampatykes for 5 year olds
Age: 5 year olds
Dates: June 28 - July 2, July 26 - July 30
Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Yampatika
Cost: $110 Yampatika members, $125 non-members
Curiosity about the natural world begins at a young age. Let your little one explore their natural surroundings in a safe and engaging environment. This camp is limited to 8 Yampatykes.
Yampatykes for 6 year olds
Age: 6 year olds
Dates: June 21 - June 25, Aug 2 - Aug 6
Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Yampatika
Cost: $225 Yampatika members, $245 non-members
This program builds on Yampatykes for 5 year olds, providing more in-depth opportunities for guided exploration and discovery. This camp is limited to 8 Yampatykes.
Nature Explorers' Camp
Age: 7 & 8 year olds
Dates: June 21 - 25, July 12 - 16, July 26 - 30
Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Drop-off and pick up at Yampatika.
Cost: $225 members / $245 non-members (needs-based scholarships available)
Immerse your child in an interactive program focused on the natural world. Each week will be packed with activities that encourage discovery, creativity, and inquiry. Campers learn about the area's natural and cultural history through off-site field trips. This camp is limited to 10 Nature Explorers.
Junior Naturalists' Camp
Age: 9 - 11 year olds
Dates: June 28 - July 2, July 5 - 9, July 19 - 23 (Optional overnight takes place on Thursdays)
Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Drop-off and pick up at Yampatika.
Cost: $225 Yampatika members, $245 non-members
Kids already possess the tendency to observe and document nature. To build on those skills, a Yampatika Naturalist will guide your child in learning the techniques that they may use throughout their lifetime to be a Naturalist. Campers learn how to use scientific monitoring techniques and equipment at a field site. Junior Naturalists will have the option of spending Thursday night camping at The Environmental Learning Center at Legacy Ranch. This camp is limited to 10 Junior Naturalists.
Wilderness Pioneers
Age: 12 - 14 year olds
Dates: July 6 - 9, July 20 - 23 (Tuesday - Friday, overnight on Thursday)
Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Drop-off and pick up at Yampatika.
Cost: $270 members / $300 non-members
Wilderness Pioneers will focus on teaching your child the skills he or she needs to safely explore our area's public lands. Map, compass and GPS will be used. Wilderness ethics and Leave No Trace practices will be taught to promote stewardship while enjoying the back country. This program ends with a pack in, pack out overnight and is limited to 12 Pioneers.
Wilderness Pioneers II
Age: 12 - 14 year olds
Dates: August 3 - 6 (Tuesday - Friday, 2 night field trip from Wednesday - Friday)
Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Drop-off and pick up at Yampatika.
Cost: $300 Yampatika members, $325 non-members
New in 2010, Wilderness Pioneers II will build on skills learned in Wilderness Pioneers. This program includes a pack in, pack out 2 night field trip and is limited to 12 Pioneers.
Registration
How do I register my child for a Yampatika program?
1. Us the following links to download the forms you will need. Email the forms back or bring them to Yampatika on your first camp day. Please note Yampatika's cancellation policy.
3. Confirm your registration. We will contact you within two business days to confirm your child's registration. If you do not hear from us, please contact us to make sure we have received your registration.
How do I apply for a Yampatika scholarship?
1. Use the following links to download the forms you will need. The form provides information on applicant eligibility.
