Howell Nature Center’s Excursion Camps offer campers in grades 9 through 12 an exciting opportunity to challenge themselves and learn new skills in a wilderness setting. Choose your adventure from our four exciting 2023 excursions.
“Be Wild” Project
Entering Grades 9 – 12
June 25 – 30
Days are spent being “WILD” experiencing incredible behind-the-scenes tours of nature centers and zoos that excel in conservation education and animal care. Evenings are spent enjoying nature and evening campfires at beautiful campsites around Michigan. Campers explore the challenges involved with captive animal care and apply their learnings by returning to Howell Nature Center at the end of the week and working with our dedicated staff to create their own contribution to HNC’s conservation and education mission.
South Manitou Island
Entering Grades 9 – 12
July 9 – 14
South Manitou Island and the Sleeping Bear Dune National Lakeshore provide the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery in this six day backpacking adventure. Campers will start their first night at a campground bonding with one another, packing their backpacks, and getting comfortable with their gear. The next day, campers will ride the Manitou Island Transit ferry to embark on their adventure. With a shipwreck, the “Valley of the Giants” grove of cedars, expansive dunes and beachfront to explore, . Whether your camper has been backpacking before or not, our Manitou Island excursion is inclusive of all abilities and expertise!
Dune Discovery
Entering Grades 9 – 12
July 23 – 28
The Sleeping Bear Dunes provide the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery in this week-long adventure. Campers will explore this one-of-a-kind landscape, while climbing up (or rolling down) the tallest sand dunes in the Great Lakes. Campers will have a chance to cook their own food and engage in classic recreation activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and hiking.
Mighty Mackinaw
Entering Grades 9 – 12
August 13 – 18
Campers head to the Mackinac Straits to hike, swim, and explore the region’s state parks and beaches. The adventure begins with a rafting trip down the Sturgeon River and stargazing at the International Dark Sky Park. Campers explore Mackinac Island, gather with friends around the campfire and create memories to last a lifetime.
SOA Scholarships-Tuition Assistance
Because we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience summer camp regardless of their inability to pay, the Howell Nature Center has a Tuition Assistance Program graciously funded by The Spirit of Alexandria Foundation. If your family is in need of financial assistance for your child(ren) to attend summer camp, please start by creating an account and register your campers. Complete all required forms, then fill out the SOA Scholarship Application- this electronic form is located in Step 3 of the online registration process. Then pay required deposits. You will be notified of your award amount via email after your application has been reviewed. Applications are reviewed on the first Monday of every month, January-May.
Please Note: SOA Scholarships are available based on financial need.
