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Educational Summer Camps in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Summer Nature Camps

Overview

Summer Nature Camps

Do you remember the joy of spending childhood summers outdoors? Register for Heard Summer Nature Camps and give those wonderful moments and memories to your child. The Heard’s mission is to inspire children to discover, enjoy, experience, and restore our priceless environment.

Heard Summer Camps feature opportunities for children from north Texas and beyond to delve into the wonders of nature on our 289-acre sanctuary, encounter animal ambassadors, investigate nature-themed topics, and more. We’ll spend time both indoors and outside. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors is not only fun for our children, but also plays an important role in many facets of child development.

Summer 2024 information coming soon.

 

Would you like updates when information is available? Please sign up here!

Click here to view the message regarding Heard Summer Camps and COVID-19.

Two friends posing for a picture in the woods at camp

Our Camp Programs

Summer Nature Camp

Wings and Things

What creatures take to the skies, scuttle under leaves, or bask on sun-warmed logs? In our Wings and Things Summer Camp, campers will discover the incredible adaptations of bugs, birds, and reptiles. Through hands-on activities and animal encounters, they’ll uncover how wings, scales, and extraordinary behaviors help wildlife thrive in the warming days of spring. 

Reservations

Sign Up to Get Reminders and Updates

 

Registration Now Open to Public

Registration Coming Soon! 

Ages

(As of June 1, 2026): 5 year olds, 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds, 10-12 year olds

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

Pre-registration is required.

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

 

June 1-5

July 6-10

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

Ology Odyssey

Dive into the world of science with Ologies summer camp.  This unique camp offers an exciting exploration of various scientific fields, ranging from biology, ecology and more!  Campers will become young scientists, engaging in hands-on experiences, interactive demonstrations to uncover the mysteries of the natural world.

Reservations

Sign Up to Get Reminders and Updates

 

 

 

Registration Now Open to Public

Registration Coming Soon! 

Ages

(As of June 1, 2026): 5 year olds, 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds, 10-12 year olds

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

Pre-registration is required.

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

 

June 15-19

July 20-24

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

Marvelous Mammals

Join us for a wild adventure at our Mammals summer camp.  This unique camp is dedicated to exploring the fascinating world of mammals.  Campers will discover the incredible diversity of mammals, learning about their habitats, behaviors, and adaptation through hands-on activities, interactive investigations. 

Reservations

Sign Up to Get Reminders and Updates

 

 

 

Registration Now Open to Public

Ages

(As of June 1, 2025): 5 year olds, 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds, 10-12 year olds

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

Pre-registration is required.

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

 

June 16-20

July 21-25

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

Nature Art Camp

Information coming soon!

Would you like to receive an email notification when more information is available? Click here.

Youth artists will follow in the footsteps of great artists such as Audubon, Beatrix Potter and Anna Atkins, with unique opportunities to create their own art inspired by nature and live animals. Each day, a different type of medium will be explored.

Unleash your creativity in the great outdoors with our summer Nature Art Camp!  This unique camp combines the beauty of nature with the magic of art, offering campers the opportunity to explore their artistic side while surrounded by the wonders of the natural world.  Our nature art camp is designed to foster creativity, imagination, and a deep appreciation for the environment.

Reservations

Sign Up to Get Reminders and Updates

 

 

 

Registration Now Open to Public

Registration Coming Soon! 

Ages

(As of June 1, 2026): 5 year olds, 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds, 10-12 year olds, and 13-16 year olds

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

Pre-registration is required.

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

 

 

June 8-12

July 13-17

Additional Information

All art supplies are included.

Keeper Camp

Campers experience a behind-the-scenes, hands-on adventure with our education and exhibit animals. Learn about our different animals and what it takes to properly care for them. Spots are limited. 

Embark on a compassionate adventure at our summer camp for animal caretakers.  This unique camp offers campers a chance to learn about and care for the incredible creatures that help educate and inspire others in exhibits and educational programs.  From feeding and cleaning to handling and socializing, campers will develop a deep understanding of the responsibilities involved in caring for animals in a professional setting.

Reservations

Registration Coming Soon!

Early Bird Registration

Ends 3/1

Ages

(Age as of June 1, 2026): 5 year olds, 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds,10-12 year olds, and 13-16 year olds

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

 

Pre-registration required.

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

 

June 22-26

July 27-31

Additional Information

Attendees of Keeper Camp 2 must have attended Keeper Camp 1.

Jr. Jobs Teen Camp

Information coming soon!

Discover your passion for nature, science, and conservation at our summer career exploration camp for teens!  This immersive camp offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the diverse job opportunities in natural science museums and wildlife sanctuaries.  From learning about animal care to understanding the importance of research and public outreach, this camp is designed to inspire and empower the next generation of conservation leaders.

Reservations

Registration Coming Soon!

Ages

13-16 years old

Price

Member Rate: $225

Non-Member Rate: $250

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

July 13-17

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

 

Extended Care Program

Information coming soon!

Need a little more flexibility in your day? Our Extended Care program at the Heard provides a relaxed cool-down after camp. Campers can unwind with quiet games, reading time, and fun activities in Laughlin Hall. 

 

Please note that this program is not available for Roly Poly Camp or Summer Mini Camps. 

Reservations

Registration Coming Soon!

Ages

5 years old, 6-7 years old, 8-9 years old, 10-12 years old, and 13-16 years old

Price

$100

Schedule

2:30 P.M. – 5:30 P.M.

 

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

 

Camp Roly Poly

Based on our popular Nature Explorers preschool program, each day, campers will meet one of the Heard’s live animal ambassadors and take a nature hike to explore different habitats from wetlands and forests to prairie and ponds.  We will also explore museum exhibits, participate in hands-on science activities, sing songs, listen to stories, and play nature theme-games!  A simple snack (such as animal crackers, goldfish, or pretzels with water) will be served.

Reservations

Registration Coming Soon!

Ages

For 3-4 year olds (as of June 1, 2025)

Price

Member Rate: $125

Non-Member Rate: $150

Schedule

9:30 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.

June 1-5

June 15-19

July 6-10

July 20-24

Additional Information

Spots are limited.

Summer Mini Camps

Fit a little more fun in nature into your summer! Spots are limited. Register today.

  • Scales and Trails – 6/29
    Campers will explore the different kinds of reptiles through hands-on activities and close-up encounters with our animal ambassadors, getting a chance to touch real scales and observe their behaviors in real time! Campers will also practice spotting reptiles outdoors through a guided hike and explore the ecosystems they call home.
  • Legs, Legs, Legs  – 6/30
    Discover the fascinating world of invertebrates at our summer camp. Our campers will dive into the diverse and incredible realm of animals without backbones. We will use engaging activities and hands-on investigations to inspire curiosity and excitement about invertebrates. 
  • Nature Art – 7/1

    Unleash your creativity in the great outdoors with our summer Nature Art Camp! This unique camp combines the beauty of nature with the magic of art, offering campers the opportunity to explore their artistic side while surrounded by the wonders of the natural world. Our nature art camp is designed to foster creativity, imagination, and a deep appreciation for the environment. 

Reservations

Heard Museum* Members-Only Registration

Through 2/15

Ages

(Age as of June 1, 2026): 3-4 years old, 5 years old, 6-7 years old, 8-9 years old, 10-12 years old, and 13-16 years old

Price (per mini camp)

Member Rate: $35

Non-Member Rate: $40

 

Pre-registration required

 

Schedule

(9:30 a.m. – noon)

Wednesday, July 5 – Amazing Amphibians
Thursday, July 6 – Fossil Finds
Friday, July 7 – Bird Basics

Registration Coming Soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A completed registration form
  • payment in full
  • immunization forms
  • Deadline for 100% refund less a $20 admin fee – May 1
  • Deadline for 50% refund less the $20 admin fee – May 22 (no refunds available after this date).
  • Before May 22, if space is available, rescheduling from one camp week to another may be offered without an admin fee.
  • Rescheduling of camp weeks may be possible after May 22 only as available
    • Please note that a $20 admin fee will apply for any modifications to registration after May 22.
    • Participants will also be responsible for any applicable additional fees that may be required for different camp type selection. No refund will be available for camps of a lesser price.

Medication Policy

 

Our Medication Policy is for the protection and safety of your child while he/she participates in Museum Programs. Your cooperation with this policy is necessary for the safety of all participants. We appreciate your consideration.

  • Only those prescriptions indicated by a physician as necessary for a child’s medical care and that cannot be administered outside of class time will be given.
  • Medication (except for epi-pens and rescue inhalers) will be kept in the First Aid station and administered by the Camp Health Care Officer.
  • Prescription medications, including inhalers and epi-pens, must be in the original container, with the pharmacy label, and placed in a clear baggie with a note that includes the child’s name, parent(s)’ name(s), physician’s name, and date attending summer camp. If the pharmacy label is not available, a signed note from the doctor’s office stating the name of the medication, dosage and usage will be accepted. Medication will be administered only as stated on the label directions. If the medicine has an expired expiration date, the medication will not be administered.
  • Asthma Inhalers and Epi-pens will be permitted in the classroom and may be carried outside by camp staff. Written medical authorization from a physician and parent/guardian must be on file in the Education Office. If your child is used to using their inhaler on their own, please let them know that they MUST notify their summer camp teacher prior to each use.
  • Injectable medications, such as insulin, will only be administered with medical authorization from a physician and parent/guardian on file in the Education Office.
  • As with other medication, it will be kept in the First Aid Station and dispensed by the Camp Health Care Officer.
  • Non-prescription medication will only be administered with written instructions, authorization and signature of both a physician and a parent/guardian. Medication must be in the original container, and placed in a clear baggie with the physician’s authorization, dosage, and parental authorization as well as the child’s name, printed parent(s)’ name(s) and physician’s name, and date attending summer camp. Medication will be administered only as stated in the physician’s written instructions. If the medicine has an expired expiration date, the medication will not be administered. The medication will be kept in the First Aid Station and dispensed by the Camp Health Care Officer.
  • Food Allergy Information: Please be aware that summer camp participants eat lunch together. Children with peanut butter or other food allergies cannot be separated from other classmates.

 

*Please note that the reciprocal admission agreement that the Heard has with the Perot Museum, Fort Worth Museum of Nature & Science and ASTC Passport Program participants does not apply to education programs or special events.

Heard Member discounts are applicable only to persons covered under a Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary membership. Learn more here.

A Message About Covid-19 & Heard Summer Camps

We do not know what the coronavirus situation will be when camp actually occurs. But assuming conditions are the same as they are now, the following procedures, based on CDC guidelines, will be implemented to help reduce potential exposure for campers and staff. If community conditions improve or worsen, we will adjust our policies accordingly.

 

What About Face Masks?

  • Currently, face masks will only be required to be worn only when live animal ambassadors are visiting class (about 10-15 minutes) or when visiting the mammals on the animal trail.
  • They are welcome to be worn at any time if desired.

What Else Are We Doing?

  • Daily health screening for all camp staff and campers. (See below)
  • Social distancing practices will be maintained during camp as much as possible.
  • Soap and/or hand sanitizer will be available at all times in all camp classrooms and restrooms.
  • Ongoing sanitizing/cleaning in classrooms and public areas.
  • All live animal visitors and some specimens will be “look only.” Masks must be worn by everyone in the room when animal visitors are outside their carriers.

Health Screening

  • Pre-arrival Health screening by family – please keep your camper at home if:
    • They have any COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, fever, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, sore throat, chills, aches, new loss or change of smell or taste, etc.
    • They have recently had close contact with anyone who has tested positive for or has symptoms of COVID-19.
    • If the answer is yes to either question or they have tested positive, campers will not be allowed to be at camp for at least 5 days from onset of symptoms or exposure and/or have had a negative covid test.
    • A health screening may occur at check-in for all campers and staff which could include a temperature check. Anyone with a temperature of 100 oF or higher will not be allowed to attend camp, and may not return until fever has been normal for at least 24 hours if there are no other COVID-19 symptoms.

(Policy current as of 1.24.23)