Sonoma Ecology Center Summer Science Camps
Sonoma Ecology Center Summer Science Camps provide children with the opportunity to learn about science and connect with nature through adventures, explorations, and hands-on activities. Each camp is designed and facilitated by our year-round, seasoned team of Environmental Educators who are skilled at crafting a meaningful outdoor experience for each camper.LEARN MORE
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Earth Explorers Camp at Sonoma Garden Park
Ages 6-11, City of Sonoma: We invite you to a week full of discovery, creativity, and PLAY as an Earth Explorer this summer! Against the backdrop of Sonoma Garden Park—equipped with a nature-based playground, multiple child-friendly gardens, and shaded rest areas—campers are given a safe space to explore, learn, build, and create to the beat of their own drum. At Earth Explorers Camp, we believe play is the best way to learn about our environment, so we will have plenty of time to play games, make art, do STEAM experiments, and tell stories—enjoying special moments of team-building along the way that will nurture both new and old friendships.LEARN MORE
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Creek Camp at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Ages 8-12, Kenwood: Join us at Creek Camp and learn all about local plants, animals, and the indigenous Wappo, Coast Miwok, and Southern Pomo peoples who have called Sugarloaf Ridge State Park home for generations, while exploring Sugarloaf’s trails and splashing around in the creek. Each day includes a balance of games, hiking, and storytelling, providing a wonderful opportunity for your child to unwind, recharge, and learn this summer without the distractions of screen time.LEARN MORE
Photos courtesy of Melania Mahoney, Austin Noble, and Marielle V Chua
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Reviews
My three kids have loved going to this sweet little camp at the Sonoma Garden Park for the past several summers! From tye dying, to observing butterflies and bees, making art projects, weaving, picking fruit, and playing in and learning from the natural world, their time spent at the Garden Park feels like a place where they can slow down from the more hectic pace of life during the school year and move at the pace of nature. It's been a wonderful experience for each of them :)
Maria H., Service on Apr 24My son has attended this camp for the past three summers, and it is something we truly look forward to each year. I love knowing he is spending his days outside at Sonoma Garden Park, immersed in nature and a variety of rich, hands-on experiences. He is making friends, creating art, learning through play, and having a fun, grounded day. He comes home happy, tired in the best way, and excited to go back the next morning, and often asks to return on weekends with our family. It has been such a meaningful part of our summers. The instructors are truly amazing as well.
Jeanne-Louise C., Service on Apr 24Both my daughter and son thoroughly enjoyed their time at the Sonoma Ecology Center camps! It definitely had a lasting impact on both of them as they move into adulthood. The time they spent exploring the trails at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and the gardens at Sonoma Garden Park gave them a deep appreciation for the outdoors that has never left them. Whether they were splashing in the creeks, studying local wildlife, or learning about environmental science through hands-on activities, the camp provided a perfect balance of education and pure outdoor fun. These experiences did more than just fill their summer days; they built the resilience and self-confidence that I see in them today. My son, in particular, has very fond memories of his time there. The curiosity he developed while exploring ecological systems has directly influenced his path into the medical field, where he now applies that same spirit of care and discovery to human health. We are so grateful for the 'core memories' and life skills they gained in such a beautiful, natural setting.
Cynthia O., Service on Apr 22