Join us for Adventures in the Estuary, an exciting summer camp at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve! Perfect for young explorers, this camp offers hands-on activities, wildlife encounters, and eco-adventures that foster a love for nature and conservation. With expert guides and a cultural exchange program featuring international counselors, campers will enjoy a unique blend of learning and fun while exploring the diverse coastal ecosystems.
Exciting Activities and Unique Opportunities
- Hands-on conservation activities
- Wildlife encounters with animal ambassadors
- Guided trail hikes and beach exploration
- Cultural exchange with international counselors
- Arts, crafts, and environmental games
- Outdoor adventures: kayaking, fishing, and archery
Camp Logistics and Essential Information
Campers will have a fun-filled, educational experience each day at the GTM Research Reserve. To ensure a smooth camp week, we’ve outlined important information about daily schedules and required items for your child.
Summer Camp Information
GTM Research Reserve Education Department at [email protected] or 904-380-8600.
- GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
- Monday – Thursday campers should arrive at 8:00 a.m. (no earlier than 7:30 a.m.) and be picked up at 4:00 p.m. (no later than 5:00 p.m.). Camp will end early on Fridays and campers should be picked up at 3:00 p.m. (no later than 4:00 p.m.).
- Interactive lesson plans and activities focused on conservation and our estuary
- Conservation games and activities
- Live interactions with our animal ambassadors
- Estuary, ocean, and forest themed activities
- Trail hikes focusing on animals and the cultural history of Guana Peninsula
- Guest speakers featuring scientists, conservationists, and community organizations
- Digital detox! No cell phones allowed (phones will be collected at drop off and returned at pick up)
- Campers will also enjoy fishing, kayaking, archery, environmental themed arts & crafts, hiking, and time at the beach with a certified lifeguard!
How do I register my child for camp?
When registration opens, the corresponding buttons will allow you to register your camper. Friends Members will receive exclusive updates on when registration will open and will be able to register before the general public (click here for more information on how to become a Friends Member).
What if a session is full?
If the session you wanted is full, please fill in the Waitlist form and an education team member will reach out to you once an open spot becomes available.
What is your refund policy?
No refunds will be issued for cancellations. If you need to cancel registration, please reach out to us about credit for a future summer camp session.
What should my child bring to camp?
- Lunches – parents/guardians must provide a lunch for their children. We try to encourage campers to bring a litter-less, eco-friendly lunch (reusable items).
- Campers must also bring: A water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, a change of clothes and shoes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and a hat.
- Please be sure to label your child’s supplies since we cannot allow campers to share certain items without parent/guardian permission (e.g. sunscreen and insect repellent). Items such as sunscreen, bug spray, water bottles, and hats can be stored at camp for the week.
- We will provide water and snacks. We strive to provide healthy snacks, however, if your child has dietary restrictions we recommend packing a snack from home.
What if my child carpools or the pick-up adult changes?
Your child(ren) will only be allowed to go home with people you have indicated on the permission list (provided at the beginning of camp).
My children are siblings, friends, etc., want to be together, but are now in different age groups. Can they be together?
6-8-year-old and the 9-12-year-old campers will be in separate classrooms with different age appropriate activities. Please contact us with questions.
