NC Aquarium at Ft. Fisher Summer Camps
Aquarium summer camps provide fun and safe learning opportunities with knowledgeable and competent leadership. Camps run simultaneously for ages 5-6, 7-8, and 9-11. Ages 5-6, known as Aquanauts, become immersed in weekly topics through animal interaction, play, storytelling, crafts, and hands on outdoor activities. Ages 7-8, Marine Detectives, use their investigative skills during animal programs, outdoor excursions, and interactive games to better understand nature. Ages 9-11, Ocean Explorers, participate with staff in experiences outdoors, and behind the scenes at the , to discover each weekly topic. Ages 12-14, Coastal Crusaders, venture farther to explore different coastal environments and learn about animal collection. These campers also interact more directly with staff behind the scenes to assist with animal care. Ages 15-16, Green Teens, investigate our connection with nature, engage in conservation projects to help protect our planet, and explore careers in marine science.
Camp Fees: $250.00 for ages 5-11, $300.00 for ages 12-14, $300.00 for ages 15-16
Summer camps runs June 18-August 10, 2018
Extreme Ecosystems Ever wonder how a penguin can survive in -58°F or how a camel lives in 120°F heat? Discover how animals thrive in complete darkness 36,000 ft. below in the deep sea and 125 ft. above in the treetops of the rainforest. Campers will learn about these extraordinary ecosystems and how local animals compare to their extreme relatives.
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Habitat Heroes Do your kids like to explore the outdoors? If so, then this is the camp for them. By becoming immersed in our local North Carolina habitats campers gain an appreciation and knowledge needed for protecting wildlife and their homes. Campers will learn about our coastal environments and the steps we can take to preserve them.
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Animal Keepers
How do we feed 2,000 animals? What does it take to keep a 235,000-gallon aquarium clean? Where do aquarium animals come from? Campers learn what it takes to be responsible for the daily care and maintenance of aquarium animals. By helping prepare food, clean exhibits, and create animal enrichment campers get a glimpse of the work required to provide proper animal care.
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Amazing Adaptations
How can animals jump so far, run so fast, and fly so high? Why do some animals disappear in front of your eyes while others stand out with bright colors? During this camp your child will discover how animals adapt to surviving in the wild.
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Coastal Crusaders
How can North Carolina's aquatic environments be recreated and maintained in an Aquarium setting? By exploring natural habitats, campers will gain a better understanding of how to investigate and preserve the environment we all share. Activities that campers will enjoy this week include canoeing on the Brunswick River, surf fishing, and visiting the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Ages: 12-14
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Green Teens
How do you measure the health of an ecosystem? What can we do to help keep our planet healthy? Teens will learn about vital environmental concerns while on fishing, hiking, and canoeing expeditions in our coastal habitats. They will also participate in local conservation projects, including oyster reef restorations and beach clean-ups, in order to improve the health of our nearby beaches and marshes. Ages: 15-16
Time: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm