Join the fun at our week-long environmental education camps! Discovery hunts, hands-on science experiments, puppet shows, stream investigations, hikes, nature crafts and new friends are all part of the fun. On-line registration begins in March for these popular camps.

In Garden Earth I, campers explore pollinators, soil critters and food chains in the gardens and forest at the Botanical Garden. Children meet puppet characters including Suga Magnolia who is in charge of the flowers, Oli Earthworm who takes care of the soil, and Madame Squirrel who runs a woodland restaurant for all the creatures who live at the Garden. Indoor gardening projects, solar cooking treats and crafts projects complement the exciting outdoor adventures!

In Garden Earth II, campers investigate water, insects and trees. Visits to the Middle Oconee River and Orange Trail stream (both on the grounds of the Garden) bring the world of the water critters to life. Children explore insects in carnivorous pitcher plants, pitfall traps, and through fun discovery hunts. To top off the week children meet Old Man Spruce who takes campers on a tour of his Air Cleaning Factory though puppet shows, interactive games and forest investigations. Craft projects complement each day's activities.

Campers will engage in the scientific and artistic aspects of nature while exploring the cultivated areas and trails of the State Botanical Garden. Junior Explorers will spend mornings as teams of citizen scientists collecting data contributing to long-term evaluation of Garden ecosystems. Afternoons will be enjoyed observing and experiencing the Garden as naturalists while plant collecting, journaling and exploring natural history and plant lore.

Developed specially for young nature lovers and their parent or grandparent helpers, the Sweet Pea Club offers a marvelous introduction to the natural world. Each day focuses on a different "earthy" topic. Sample daily topics include A Visit with Old Man Spruce Tree!, Adventures with Oli Earthworm in the Soil, and Who's Eating at Madame Squirrel's Restaurant! Programs involve puppet shows, storytelling, indoor and outdoor learning games, nature crafts and garden explorations.

The State Botanical Garden is pleased to offer volunteer camp counselor positions. These positions afford adolescents opportunities to build confidence, serve as a role model for younger children, and learn new skills. If you have a child between the ages of 13 and 18 would like to apply to be a Botanical Garden Summer Camp Counselor, please contact the Education Coordinator at (706) 542-6156.

For additional information, dates and registration forms, see this page.