Summer Camps at Powdermill Nature Reserve

As part of Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s summer programs for children, Powdermill Nature Reserve, the museum's environmental research center, offers full-day camps for children ages 5–8 and 9–12!

Fun-filled days await campers as they explore the great outdoors, view wildlife up close, and make exciting discoveries about the natural world. Each year activities change to give children new experiences, while keeping all of the favorites: a trip to the bird banding station, splashing in the stream, and investigating ponds, forests, and meadows.

Camp Options

Natural Wonders: Ages 5–8
Start your lifelong journey through biodiversity here! Powdermill shares its secrets as children enjoy a week of nature games and activities focused on getting to know the area’s natural habitats. Which species are found in Pennsylvania? Why do some animals migrate and others stay put? And, most importantly, how can we protect our native plants and animals? All of these questions and many more are answered through hikes, age-appropriate explorations, stories, and experiences in the outdoors. Guest appearances include Carnegie Museum scientists studying birds, snails, and other local critters. Come wonder with us!

Outdoor Explorations: Ages 9–12
Explorers only need apply! In-depth, hands-on scientific activities focus on protecting Pennsylvania’s amazing biodiversity. The week’s adventures include introductions to wilderness survival skills, orienteering, forest fire prevention, and shelter building. Through hikes, games, habitat studies, and special guest appearances by Carnegie Museum scientists, campers take their outdoor skills to the next level.

Fee

$200 (Members $180)

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Pre- and post-camp care are not provided.

June 25–29
July 9–13
July 16–20
July 23–7

Location

The reserve is located in Rector, PA, 55 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. Parents/guardians must provide transportation. Click here to visit the Powdermill website for directions and general information about the reserve.

Lunch

Pack a hearty lunch—the kids work hard all day!

• We encourage recycling, so recyclable or reusable containers are appreciated.
• Refrigeration is not available.
• No snacks are provided.
• Please contact us if your child has special needs.
• Weather permitting, children eat lunch outside on picnic tables, under shade trees, or on the grass lawn.
• Children have 15–20 minutes of recess after lunch.

What to Bring

Each child is provided a cubby for personal items. Please be sure to label all items clearly. Items you might store in child's cubby include a change of clothes and shoes in case we get wet, a rain slicker, sweater or light jacket, insect repellent, and bottle of water (preferably refillable).

We will decorate our own camp t-shirts during the week, so please provide a plain white t-shirt on Monday, labeled with child's name.

We spend most of the day outside, rain or shine, and camp activities include hikes through forests and meadows. Sturdy shoes and sunscreen are a must. Flip-flops, sandals, and Crocs are NOT permitted.

Camp includes an investigation of Powdermill Run stream. The water level is low and no swimming is required. Children may wear bathing suits, but please provide a pair of shorts for girls and a t-shirt for boys. Send a complete change of clothes for stream day. Sturdy shoes are required in the stream (no flip-flops, sandals, or Crocs).