Summer is the perfect time for kids to unplug, explore, and build confidence outdoors. Pottawattamie Conservation’s 2026 Summer Nature Camps offer hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity, skill-building, and a lasting connection to the natural world.
The Environmental Education team has been hard at work planning another season of engaging camps designed to get kids outside and learning through adventure.
Registration for Pottawattamie Conservation’s summer nature camps is now open for members, with general registration beginning February 2. Not a member yet? Becoming a Pottawattamie Conservation member comes with great benefits, including early access to summer camp registration and the opportunity to secure a spot before camps fill. Camps are held at either Hitchcock Nature Center, Botna Bend Park, or Arrowhead Park, giving campers the chance to explore multiple beautiful outdoor locations.
Those who wish to support Pottawattamie Conservation can make a donation, purchase an annual park membership for as little as $25, or become a volunteer. Contributions help provide access to public lands, support outdoor recreation, and fund habitat restoration throughout Pottawattamie County.
2026 Summer Nature Camps
Wildlings
Wildlings camps are designed for preschool children ages 3–5 and introduce young learners to the outdoors through exploration and play, nurturing natural curiosity in a supportive environment. These three-day, unaccompanied camps take place at Hitchcock Nature Center and are offered in either a morning session from 9–11 AM or an afternoon session from 1–3 PM. The cost is $30 per camper, with sessions running July 28–30.
Wild Ones
Campers entering 1st and 2nd grade, ages 6–7, will experience immersive outdoor fun through activities like fort building, water exploration, hiking, outdoor games, and nature crafts. Each three-day camp is packed with hands-on learning and adventure and runs from 8 AM to 1 PM each day. The cost is $75 per camper, per camp, with sessions offered June 2–4 at Arrowhead Park, June 9–11 at Botna Bend Park in partnership with the East and West Pottawattamie County Soil and Water Conservation District, and July 21–23 at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Wild Seekers
Wild Seekers camps invite students entering 3rd and 4th grade, ages 8–9, to explore Iowa’s wild side while building new outdoor skills such as archery, primitive fire starting, orienteering, and nature crafting. Each three-day camp runs from 8 AM to 1 PM and costs $75 per camper, per camp. Sessions are offered June 9–11 at Hitchcock Nature Center, July 7–9 at Botna Bend Park in partnership with the East and West Pottawattamie County Soil and Water Conservation District, and July 14–16 at Arrowhead Park.
Wild Wanderers
Wild Wanderers campers, for students entering 5th and 6th grade (ages 10–11), embark on deeper outdoor adventures while developing skills in archery, primitive fire building, orienteering, whittling, and more. Each three-day camp runs from 8 AM to 1 PM and costs $75 per camper, per camp. Sessions are offered June 16–18 at Hitchcock Nature Center, July 7–9 at Arrowhead Park, and July 21–23 at Botna Bend Park in partnership with the East and West Pottawattamie County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Into the Wild
This advanced outdoor adventure is designed for students entering 7th, 8th, and 9th grade (ages 12–14) and invites older campers to take their outdoor skills to the next level with kayaking, water safety training, and an overnight camping experience along the West Nishnabotna River Water Trail. The three-day camp begins with training from 8 AM to 1 PM, followed by a two-day overnight adventure, and costs $100 per student. This session will be held June 23–25 at Arrowhead Park and Botna Bend Park.
Survive the Wild
Designed for high school students ready for a challenge, this overnight experience focuses on backcountry hiking, survival skills, and self-reliance at Hitchcock Nature Center. The two-day camp begins at 8 AM and concludes at 10 AM the following day, with a cost of $75 per student. This session will be held June 2–3 at Hitchcock Nature Center.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
From first-time explorers to seasoned outdoor adventurers, Pottawattamie Conservation’s summer nature camps offer experiences that build confidence, spark curiosity, and create lifelong memories. Each camp is thoughtfully designed to help kids discover new skills, make friends, and connect with the outdoors in meaningful ways.
Spots are limited and camps fill quickly. Member registration is now open, with general registration beginning February 2. Secure your camper’s place early and give them a summer filled with adventure, discovery, and time well spent outside.
