Clifton Institute Education Programs

Clifton Institute Education Programs includes Young Explorers for ages 5-6, Young Naturalists for ages 7-12, and Young Scientists Research Experience for ages 13-18. Young Explorers is a drop-off program with hands-on activities, a children’s book, and an exploratory walk each day. Young Naturalists is a week-long camp, and Young Scientists Research Experience is a research-focused camp for middle and high school students.

Programs

• Young Explorers — 5-6 · 9:00 am-12:00 pm · $155 per session · Drop-off program; each day includes hands-on activities, a children's book, and an exploratory walk. Cost listed as $155 for 1 camper / $125 for each additional camper.
• Young Naturalists — 7-12 · 9:00 am-4:00 pm · $275 per session · Week-long camp with Week 1: 2026-07-06 to 2026-07-10 and Week 2: 2026-07-13 to 2026-07-17. Cost listed as $275 for 1 camper / $220 for each additional camper.
• Young Scientists Research Experience — 13-18 · 9:00 am-4:00 pm · $350 per session · Research-focused camp for middle and high school students. Dates: 2026-06-22 to 2026-06-26. Cost listed as $350 for 1 camper / $280 for each additional camper.
• Nature Camp for Grownups — Weekend-long at the end of the summer · Weekend-long nature camp for grownups.

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Price range: $155–$350 per session
• General schedule: Four week-long summer programs for children; one weekend-long Nature Camp for Grownups at the end of the summer.
• Facility hours: Tues-Sat: 10:00-16:00; Closed Sunday & Monday

About the provider

The program’s mission is to save Virginia’s native species. It does conservation biology research, restores habitat for native plants and animals, and teaches people about science, conservation, and nature.

Cancellations prior to 3 weeks before camp start receive a full refund minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 3 weeks of camp start forfeit full tuition. If paperwork is not submitted by 3 weeks prior to start, refund is all but the $50 and the spot is offered to the next person on the wait list. Staff and campers must be up-to-date with Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age. Limited to two scholarships per family, with up to 6 given per year.

Last updated October 28, 2026.