Join us for many fun and educational adventures this Spring as we explore, collect and create. Learn about local nature and wildlife, create art and build structures as we move our bodies and discover more about ourselves and our greater community. 100% of our days are spent outdoors!
Our camp days are filled with adventure and no two days are ever the same! We spend time exploring China Camp Beach, Miwok Meadows and the Back Ranch Meadows Campground.
Monday: I can't think of a better way to kick off our camp week than by learning about snails. Campers will even be making their own snails! We'll also be going on an oyster and clam shell hunt as we explore the wonderful world of mollusks. Campers will have fun working in the mud kitchen using all sorts of tools.
Tuesday: Tuesday is all about trees, leaves, flowers and seeds. We'll be at focusing on oaks, bay laurels and California buckeyes. We'll also learn what types of animals make their dens and nests in trees! Campers will have fun completing a nature triathon where they will run, ride and climb their way through the meadow.
Wednesday: Wednesday will be spent exploring the campground. Campers will work together to set-up our tent. We'll explore the wooded habitat and learn about local wildlife. Campers will also learn about birds, butterflies and insects. We'll make nature journals to keep track of our observations.
Thursday: We'll finish our week together back where started but this time we'll explore another nearby beach. Campers will learn about sand and discover more about shape, weight, capacity as they construct waterways and build structures using ramps, funnels and sieves. We'll learn about the salt marsh and the animals that call it home, including two endangered species.
Here are just a few of our favorite camp activities -
Nature Hikes - Campers have fun going on short hikes, observing wildlife and collecting sticks and leaves that we'll later turn into nature paintbrushes. They discover the different textures of leaves, bark and rocks as we hunt for items of a certain shape or color. Campers learn the names of our local trees and their leaves, as well as plants, birds and bugs.
Scavenger Hunts - Campers explore the varied landscapes at China Camp as we search for hidden items. We work as a group while searching for both natural and man made items. We may discover a Western Fence Lizard, the nest of the Dusky Footed Woodrat or a hawk along the way!
Animal Observation - There are many species of animals that call China Camp home and we often notice wild animals during our camp week. We read books and make crafts that teach us more about many of these animals.
Nature Art & Crafts - Collecting natural materials like leaves, sticks and stones is a very popular activity at camp and turning these found objects into works of art is a highlight of the week. Noticing the beauty of nature inspires all of us!
Nature-Based Play - This is the heart and soul of our program and campers have plenty of time to explore and discover independently, with a friend or as a group. Campers can be found climbing trees, building forts, making nests or just quietly observing.
Storytime - We begin each day gathered together in a morning circle where we read a story or two that sets the tone for the day. Stories might be about animals, nature or friendship. We have a little library where campers can learn more about leaves, trees and wildlife throughout the day.
Snails & Turkey Tails is a nature-based preschool enrichment program for ages 3-5 years old. Each camp has a 1:4 adult/child ratio, with a max of 8 campers weekly. Camp meets Monday - Thursday from 9am-1:30pm. (Optional extended day until 2:30pm at no extra cost)
Snails & Turkey Tails