Photo submitted to the Times Observer Campers from a past summer are pictured.

“A Little Dirt Doesn’t Hurt” is the theme for this year’s outdoor adventures. Summer fun is just around the corner, and the Warren County Conservation District is excited to announce that space is still available for its 2025 Summer Conservation Camps. With the theme “A Little Dirt Doesn’t Hurt,” these camps are designed to get kids outside, exploring nature, making new friends, and discovering the wonders of the world around them.

The camps will be held at the Hatch Run Conservation Demonstration Area on Hatch Run Road and are tailored to specific age groups to ensure age-appropriate learning and activities.

Children’s Nature Camp (CNC) is open to students entering grades 1 through 6 in the 2025-2026 school year. These day camps run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include educational activities focused on water, soil, plants, and animals, as well as hands-on outdoor fun like fishing in the pond and splashing in the stream.

CNC is divided into three sessions: CNC I: July 22-23 for children entering 1st and 2nd grade, CNC II: July 10-11 for children entering 3rd and 4th grade, CNC III: (currently full) July 7-8 for children entering 5th and 6th grade.

Each session is limited to 32 children to provide an engaging and safe experience, so early registration is encouraged.

Kindergarten Nature Camp (KNC) is a special one-day event held on July 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for children entering kindergarten this fall. This camp includes nature-themed games, crafts, and exploration, with an emphasis on getting wet, dirty, and having fun while learning about water, plants, animals, and soils. KNC is limited to just 10 participants, making it a cozy and interactive introduction to nature for young explorers.

The application deadline for all camps is June 18, and the cost is $40 per child for CNC and $20 per child for KNC. Scholarships are available for families in need.

For more information or to download application forms, visit www.wcconservation.net. You may also call 814-726-1441 or email Sherry Moore at smoore@wcconservation.net.