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Secrets of our Museum

There is more in our Museum than exhibits! Behind the scenes, the Museum is home to collections of thousands of natural objects and specimens. From mammals to meteorites, discover how museum specimens are collected and preserved as well as the important role they play in helping us understand the world around us. Join us for… Read More >

It’s Our Water

Water, amazing water. It quenches our thirst, cools our bodies, cleans our clothes, grows our food and so much more. It is 97% of us and is made from a combination of two different atoms: oxygen and hydrogen. Spend the week experimenting and exploring the wonders of water and why it is so important to have access to clean water! Create your own hydroponic system, calculate… Read More >

The Art of Doing Science

Do you love science? How about art? Join us to find out how bring them together! From hands-on activities and sampling all the “ologies,” to discovering how scientists use art and other media to experience the excitement of science in all its forms, you’ll discover a whole new way to “do science.” Explore how different… Read More >

Junior Scientist

Plan to get wet, dirty and completely immersed in the world of field research. This camp offers a true field experience as you spend each day using the tools Museum researchers use to investigate the natural world of Prairie Ridge Ecostation. We will work with researchers to investigate a new topic daily such as geology,… Read More >

Digging Up Dinosaurs

Calling all dinosaur fans! Come spend a week exploring the world of dinosaurs! Just how big, small, old, colorful, smelly, and hungry were dinosaurs? How did they move, find food, and escape predators? Which ones lived in North Carolina? We will explore these questions and more; even going behind-the-scenes to see fossils and meet paleontologists…. Read More >

Wildlife Illustrators

Explore nature and learn how to draw from real-life observations. Each day we will search Prairie Ridge’s ponds, streams and prairie for plants and wildlife to inspire your creativity. Local artist and educator, Courtney Cappa, will show you how to illustrate scientific drawings of plants and animals using contemporary watercolor techniques. You will even learn… Read More >

Healthy Habitats

Explore the wilds of Prairie Ridge Ecostation. Take an in-depth look at what thrives in Piedmont prairies, forests, streams and ponds. Discover how native plants and animals adapt to local conditions and how you can help wildlife in your backyard. Along the way we will build your skills to champion healthy habitats in your neighborhoods… Read More >

“Ology” Camp

Discover the wonderful world of “ologies”! Explore zoology (animals), entomology (insects), ichthyology (fish) and “grossology” (things that make you go eww). Each day we will explore a new ology with real specimens, models, live animals and behind-the-scenes tours. Questions: Please visit the Summer Camp Frequently Asked Questions page for more information or contact summercamps@naturalsciences.org.

Woodland Adventure

From groundhogs to rabbits, tree frogs to rolly pollies, we will explore the “wilds” of Prairie Ridge Ecostation. Come make mud pies, roll in the grass and crawl though the groundhog tunnel. This outdoor adventure launches from Prairie Ridge’s Nature PlaySpace and outdoor classroom with forays into the prairie, pond and woods surrounding the Ecostation…. Read More >