The Howell Nature Center’s Camp Wonder Overnight Camps offers the opportunity for children to unplug from technology and connect with nature!
Classic Overnight Camps
Overnight Camp offers the opportunity for children to unplug from technology, make lasting friendships, and connect with nature in a unique and transformative overnight experience!
Explorers
Entering Grades 4 – 5
July 7 – 12, July 21 – 26, July 28 – August 2, August 4 – 9, August 11 – 16
Campers explore nature’s wonder through a combination of exciting experiential-based activities, along with fun and traditional camp favorites. Campers develop lasting friendships, a sense of belonging, and a connection to nature.
Adventurers
Entering Grades 6 – 8
July 7 – 12, July 21 – 26, July 28 – August 2, August 4 – 9, August 11 – 16
Adventurers choose much of their own camp experience while growing in a challenging and supportive atmosphere. Through inquiry-based programming and adventurous fun, campers develop skills, establish friendships, and build confidence.
Trailblazers
Entering Grades 9 – 10
July 7 – 12, July 21 – 26, July 28 – August 2, August 4 – 9, August 11 – 16
Unique e to this age group, campers blaze their own trail of adventure! Trailblazers broaden their horizons and expand their comfort zones while learning the joys of outdoor exploration, challenging them to grow as individuals.
Specialty Overnight Camps
Our Specialty Overnight Camps are truly unique in that they offer a well-rounded, traditional summer camp experience mixed with specialized programming related to nature and animals.
Junior Zookeepers
Entering Grades 4 – 6
June 30 – July 3
Junior Zookeepers will teach your wildlife lover about what it takes to care for animals, including observing animal behavior, exhibit design, zookeeper games, diet preparation, feeding, and much more.
Naturalist in Training
Entering Grades 7 – 9
June 30 – July 3
For nature-lovers who want an in-depth nature experience, we collaborate with our naturalists to provide great outdoor, hands-on FUN! Unique programs include stargazing, owl feeding and calling, a service project in the Wildlife Park, zoo enrichment, and much more.
New Overnight Camp Themes for 2024!
Star Wars Week
July 7 – 12
Are you a fan of Star Wars? Do you know someone who is? If so, you might be interested in attending or sending your child to a Star Wars week overnight camp! During this unique experience, campers will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe through a variety of fun and engaging activities.
Camp Wonder Carnival
July 21 – 26
Whether your camper is a seasoned carnival game pro or a first-time player, they are sure to have a great time at the Camp Wonder carnival games. These games offer campers a chance to test their skills and win prizes while having a blast with their fellow campers.
Superheroes Unite
July 28 – August 2
During this week, campers have the opportunity to unleash their inner hero by participating in various activities and challenges that test their strength, agility, and creativity. Superhero week is also a great time for campers to learn about cooperation and teamwork. Many of the activities require campers to work together to solve problems and complete challenges. Through these activities, campers learn important life skills that will help them in the future.
Camp Wonder Olympics
August 4 – 9
This year, during the actual Olympics the day campers and overnight campers join together to race to the finish line during Olympics week. The event is filled with energy, excitement, and friendly competition. Kids from both camps will work together to complete challenges, cheer each other on, and have fun. It is a reminder that even though we may come from different backgrounds, we all have the ability to work together and achieve great things.
The Stars of Hollywood
August 11 – 16
During this week, campers get to experience the glitz and glamor of Hollywood by participating in activities such as a film screening and even a red carpet event where campers get to dress up and walk down the carpet while paparazzi take their pictures. This event is a fun way to wrap up the week and allows campers to feel like they are truly part of the Hollywood scene.
SOA Scholarship Opportunities
The Spirit of Alexandria Foundation (SOA) was created in honor of the legacy of Alexandria Bennett, a little girl who was passionate about exploring the mysteries of the natural world and selflessly sharing those wonders with others. Through her inspiration, the SOA Foundation was formed with the simple goal of connecting thousands of children to nature. The SOA Foundation offers sponsorships on a first come basis. Campers must submit a short essay describing why they are interested in attending camp. SOA sponsorship applications can be accessed online during the camp registration process.
