Let's get wild. Summer camp is here!
We offer full-day camps for grades 1-8. Our nature-themed summer camps offer hands-on activities, opportunities to explore the Museum and Balboa Park. Science has never been so much fun!
Registration opens March 6 for members and March 13 for non-members.
Registration has now SOLD OUT for grades 1–5. There is limited space available in grades 6–8. In the event of a cancellation, you can join our wait list by emailing reservationcoordinator@sdnhm.org with your contact information and desired camp. Our (needs based) scholarship program has a few spots left, see details below for how to apply. Thank you!
A souvenir T-Shirt is included with each registration. Please note your camper’s size when filling out the registration form. T-Shirts will be given to your camper on the first day of camp.
Have a question? Check out our quick reference guide and FAQS.
Camp is NUT FREE. Please plan snacks and lunches accordingly.
As we begin 2023 summer camp season, The Nat’s number one priority continues to be the health and well-being of our campers, staff, and volunteers—ensuring that everyone can safely participate in each day of the camp program. The Nat follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guiding principles and state and local guidelines for COVID-19. All camp staff and volunteers are required to provide proof of vaccination or exemption when hired or starting at the organization.
Face coverings are recommended for campers, volunteer,s and staff; however, masks may become required at any point during the camp season based on CDC guidelines or internal policies. Our camp capacity will not exceed 20 campers in a classroom to allow for social distancing. Throughout the day, campers will wash their hands and will have time to participate in outdoor programming.
As a reminder, campers should not attend their program if they are feeling sick or experiencing symptoms of any cold-like virus, until those symptoms start to improve and there is no fever for 24 hours (without use of fever-reducing medication). If any camper tests positive for COVID-19, please do not attend camp and notify our Reservation Coordinator.
In addition, campers are expected to show respect for their fellow campers, instructors, staff, the Museum, and the environment. Disruptive behavior and physical aggression are not permitted. If a problem persists, campers may be removed from the program with no refund. Please review behavior expectations with your child before their first day of camp. We want everyone to make friends and memories that last a lifetime and look forward to sharing the wonders of the natural world with your child.
Scholarships are available for grades 1–8 through a generous donation from the Robert and Helen E. Grant Foundation. We will begin accepting applications on Monday, March 6. We encourage families to send their application in as soon as possible. Once all available scholarships are awarded, new applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
Download application (English) Download application (Spanish)
Do you know a teenager age 16 or older who would like to earn community service hours in a fun environment working with children? We are now accepting applications for summer camp volunteers.