NATURE CAMPS
Heinrich Ecological Services has facilitated a series of engaging weeklong nature camps at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, Brooker Creek Preserve, and Weedon Island Preserve for over ten years. These popular, hands-on, science-based camps are designed for children (ages 7-11) with a strong interest in nature. All camps are facilitated by George L. Heinrich with support from other environmental educators, as well as high school and college interns. Unsolicited comments received after past nature camps include:
“This was by far the best camp that we have ever done. My sincere appreciation to you and to all those involved with designing and facilitating the camp! We will look forward to next summer.”
“They had an AWESOME time with you! You are so enthusiastic about what you do, and they got so much out of the class... thank you very much for sharing yourself with my children! We will definitely do another camp when you have one.”
“Ethan had an awesome time at your camp; it’s all he talks about. Thanks for all your time and effort!”
“Hannah had a great time this week - she learned so much. I was really impressed that you held her attention so well. We will definitely be back next summer.”
Herpetology Camp
Campers explore the fascinating world of amphibians and reptiles through a blend of classroom and field sessions. Up-close encounters with a variety of animals, such as gopher tortoises, frogs, lizards, and snakes, help campers learn about the ecology and conservation of amphibians and reptiles. Daily hikes provide an opportunity to search for gopher tortoises, alligators, and other wildlife from the safety of the preserve’s trails and boardwalks.
Holding snakes is one of the favorite activities during Herpetology Camp (photograph by GLH)
Mammalogy Camp
This nature camp introduces the scientific study of mammals with an emphasis on diversity, ecology, and conservation of Florida species. Campers learn about food chains and webs, predators and prey, skull and fur identification, determining diets, reading tracks and sign, co-existing with wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Assembling manatee bones on loan from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (photograph by GLH)
Nature Detectives Winter Camp
This engaging camp focuses on wildlife tracks, bones, snake sheds, roadkills, feathers, eggs, scat, seeds, and other bioartifacts. Children learn how to find, identify, and interpret wildlife signs and natural objects. Hands-on activities allow campers to practice their nature detective skills along the preserve’s trails.
Identifying scat found on the trails at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve (St. Petersburg, Florida; photograph by GLH)
Wildlife Ecology Camp
Campers explore the ecology and conservation of Florida’s wildlife and wildlands, and learn about the relationships between living things and their environments. A blend of classroom and field sessions includes hands-on activities, guest presentations, and exploration of the preserve’s diverse habitats, where campers practice their nature detective skills.
Enjoying the trails and boardwalks at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve (St. Petersburg, Florida; unknown photographer)