Truckee Young Scientist Exploration Camp

2026 Dates:
Session 1: Plants & Wildflowers Week, July 6th – July 10th
Session 2: Animals & Insects Week, July 13th – 17th
Session 3: Water Week, August 17th – 21st

Times:
Drop Off 8:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. daily
Pickup: 3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. daily

Location: Truckee Springs with field days at Donner Memorial State Park

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

Price: $455 per week (includes Headwaters T-shirt), CIT $230

Meals: all campers should pack a bag lunch, snack, and water bottle for each day of camp.

Camp overview:

Give your child the opportunity to explore nature this summer. This hands-on science camp is designed for children to have fun while exploring the unique ecology of the area.

Campers will explore Truckee ecosystems, hiking, splashing in the river, and participate in other fun activities. Science is fun and engaging when children get to ask the questions that they are curious about. This program will show your child that science is all around them, while forging a unique connection to the flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada region.

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

Financial assistance application can be submitted here

Session 1 – Plants & 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 –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.

Session 3 –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 will need to bring an old white t-shirt or some other piece of clothing to dye.

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.