Serene Lakes Young Scientist Exploration Camp

2026 Dates:

Session 1: Water Week, July 20th – July 24th
Session 2: Plants & Wildflowers Week, July 27th – July 30th (only 4 days)
Session 3: Animals & Insects Week, August 3rd – August 7th

General registration: Ages 5-12
Counselor-in-training program: Ages 13-15

Price: $455 per Session (includes a Headwaters tshirt), $230 for CIT Program

Camp overview:

Give your child the opportunity to explore Serene Lakes this summer. This hands-on science camp is designed for children of Serene Lakes families to explore the unique ecology of the area.

Day campers will explore the natural spaces around Serene Lakes, ask scientific questions, and design and conduct experiments to answer their own questions. Science is fun and engaging when children get to ask the questions that they are curious about. This program will show your child science is fun and all around them while forging a unique connection to the Serene Lakes area.

Registration now open! 

Have questions? Need more info? contact our Camp Manager: Baylee Goodwin baylee@headwatersscienceinstitute.org

Session 1 –Plants and Wildflowers

Campers will learn about the diversity of wildflowers and plants in the surrounding area. We will compare and contrast the plant diversity in the various local habitats. Campers will learn to use scientific tools, like quadrats, to identify differences in plant communities. They will come up with questions that they can answer by collecting data using the skills they learn. Take home craft: Nature’s wind chime – Students will design and make their own wind chime out of natural objects found during our time spent exploring the area.

Session 2 –Water, the Source of Life

We will explore the water resources in the surrounding area. Campers will learn about water quality measures used by scientists. They will also learn about macroinvertebrates found in the local streams and lakes and how those communities potentially change with water quality. There will be plenty of time to enjoy splashing around in the water! Take home craft: Tie dye students can bring something white from home to tie dye if they want to upcycle it!

Session 3 –Animals and Insects

Students will learn about the many animals and insects found in the area. We will hike and observe wildlife and wildlife signs (i.e., footprints), and learn how scientists observe wildlife. Campers will learn about the diversity of insects by going out and catching and observing insects in the different surrounding habitats. Campers will learn about insect pollination and how insects may blend into their surroundings via camouflage or sometimes stand out from their surroundings as a potential warming. Students will ask questions and answer them through observations made while exploring the area. Take home craft: Bug nets – Students will make their own bug net so that they can continue to observe insects even after camp is over.

Counselor In Training (CIT) Program

The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is available to students ages 13–15 and allows teens to attend camp at a reduced rate while building valuable leadership and teamwork skills. During camp, CITs support our staff of science mentors by assisting with group management, leading games and art activities, and helping create a positive camp experience for younger campers. This program is a great opportunity for teens to gain hands-on experience working with groups, build confidence, and develop skills that translate to future leadership roles.