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Summer Camps. Outdoor Science in Berlin, CT
Summer 2026 Dates & Rates
Week | Dates | Theme |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 | June 22 - 26 | Farm Fun |
Week 2 | June 29 - July 3 | Forest Frenzy |
Week 3 | July 6 - 10 | Eco Engineers |
Week 4 | July 13 - 17 | Amazing Adaptations |
Week 5 | July 20 - 24 | Invert Investigations |
Week 6 | July 27 - 31 | Earth Explorers |
Week 7 | August 3 - 7 | Around the World |
Week 8 | August 10 - 14 | Wild About Water |
Pricing per week:
Members
Half-Day: $160
Full-Day: $275
Non-Members
Half-Day: $180
Full-Day: $300
The Summer Discovery program at Hungerford Nature Center provides children ages 5-12 with a unique, nature-based day camp experience. Each week, campers engage in a wide range of outdoor activities that promote environmental education, exploration, and hands-on learning.
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Every week is structured around a theme that inspires the activities and lessons, such as animal behavior, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship. Through guided nature hikes, citizen science projects, and outdoor games, campers develop a deeper connection to the natural world and a sense of responsibility for protecting the environment.
Program Overview
At Hungerford Nature Center, our mission is to inspire a lifelong connection to the natural world through hands-on learning experiences. We provide children with the opportunity to explore, discover, and appreciate nature, fostering environmental stewardship and responsibility.
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We believe that fostering a meaningful connection to nature is not only essential for childhood development, but also for the future of our planet. Our philosophy emphasizes creating an environment where campers feel inspired, curious, and empowered to engage with the natural world.
Mission & Philosophy
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the camp hours?
Our full day sessions operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a half-day option from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
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How is attendance managed?
Attendance is taken daily at drop-off, and parents will be contacted by 9:45 am if their child does not arrive without prior notice.
Authorized pick-up individuals must sign out their camper at the end of each day. Campers may not self sign out.
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What should my child bring to camp?
Campers should bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, and any personal items they may need (such as a hat or sunglasses). Campers do not need to bring lunch or snacks, as the camp provides food service for both.
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Can my child bring their own lunch and snacks?
Yes, campers may choose to bring their own lunch and snacks due to being a picky eater or having unique dietary restrictions. If you have specific questions about whether your child’s allergen or dietary restriction warrants bringing their own lunch, please contact the Camp Director. Please note that no discounts to the camp program will be provided for campers who do not participate in the meal service program.​
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What is camp’s policy for allergies?
Parents should inform camp of any allergies or special medical needs their child may have. Camp staff are trained to prioritize the safety of all campers under their care, including allergen exposure prevention and response.
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How are health and safety concerns addressed?
The camp maintains strict health and safety policies. This includes health records for each camper, medication administration procedures, and immediate communication with parents in case of illness or injury.
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​What should I do if my child is sick?
If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them at home. The camp has an illness policy that requires parents to pick up children who exhibit symptoms such as fever or vomiting.
Who will be supervising my child?
As a youth camp licensed by the State of Connecticut Office of Early Childhood, all staff members in direct contact with campers must complete a criminal background check, as well as a be checked in the National Sex Offender Registry.
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All staff undergo a rigorous pre-camp training, covering topics including child abuse prevention, supervision, and emergency preparedness.
We are proud to have a high staff retention rate, with several of our counselors also supporting our school-year education programs. While we may utilize some counselors as young as 16 years old, campers will be supervised at all times by at least one staff member who is over the age of 18.
​​What is camp's refund/cancellation policy?
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Non-Refundable Deposits: Registration deposits are non-refundable. This deposit secures your child’s spot in the program and is retained regardless of cancellation.
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Withdrawal Notice: To withdraw a child from the program, parents must provide written notice at least two weeks prior to the start date of the registered session. This can be done via email to the Camp Director.
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Full Refunds: If a written withdrawal notice is received at least two weeks before the start of the camp session, families will receive a refund of any fees paid, minus the non-refundable deposit.
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No Refunds After Deadline: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than two weeks before the start of a registered camp session.
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Session Tuition: Tuition for the session is not prorated for days missed due to absence or withdrawal.
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Behavioral Dismissal: Campers who are dismissed from the program due to behavior concerns or disciplinary reasons will not be eligible for a refund.
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Unforeseen Circumstances: In the event of an unforeseen medical event or family emergency causing a child to miss camp, we will work with the family to reach a reasonable solution, which may or may not include a partial or full session refund or balance transfer to another program.
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Program Changes: In the unlikely event that the camp must cancel a session or make significant changes to the program, families will be notified immediately and offered a full refund or the option to transfer to another session.
My daughter has attended a summer camp as well as an animal caretakers program. The instructors and activities are not only fun but educational. We highly recommend them!
Nicole D.