Summer Camp - Wildlands Conservancy

It’s SUMMER FUN Out Here!

Where tomorrow’s environmental stewards take root…

Wildlands Conservancy’s summer camp offers an enriching, nature-based environment where children learn, play, and grow through curiosity and discovery, budding both friendships and a lifelong appreciation of our natural world.

ON-SITE CAMP

SATELITE LOCATIONS

BIKE & BOAT CAMP

10 Weeks of Summer Camp FUN

Wildlands’ summer camp offers summer fun at multiple locations. Register your camper to join us at our Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlife Sanctuary in Emmaus, or opt for a convenient satellite location at a park or site close to you:
Hopewell Park (Center Valley) or
Ontelaunee Park (New Tripoli)

LEVELS

PreK: For children ages 3-5
K-2: Just completed kindergarten-grade 2
3-5: Just completed grades 3-5
6+: Just completed grades 6-8

Wildlands Explorers:
Just completed kindergarten-grade 5

FORMAT & FEES

SAVE 10% before May 1
Discount applied automatically

K-2, 3-5, & 6+: $355/child/week
Monday-Friday, 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.
Send a non-perishable lunch.

PreK: $155/child/week
Monday-Friday, 9 A.M. – 12 P.M.

EXTENDED CAMP HOURS

Great for working parents

Morning: Drop off 7:30 – 8:45 A.M.
Afternoon: Pick up 4:15 – 5:30 P.M.

Registration add-on: $40/session/week

Summer Camps at Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlife Sanctuary, Emmaus

This 77.5-acre nature preserve boasts 3 miles of trails. It is an outdoor classroom for thousands of school-age children annually.

Here, along the Little Lehigh Creek, the Lehigh Valley’s backyard oasis provides habitat for 136+ bird species as well as frogs, turtles, salamanders, and deer. Large butterflies find homes with their host plants in our native wildflower meadows.

It’s a WILD place for summer fun.

Listen to the rhythm of nature creaking in an old tree’s branches, in water flowing over a rock or emerging from the throat of a bullfrog. From sounds, to movement, and cycles; everything has a meaning, cause or purpose. Through observation, experimentation, art and music, campers will learn and experience different rhythms unique to nature.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to join our Summer Camp Kick-off Campfire. PreK families will have their own nature sing-along at 11:45am.

REGISTER PREK REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

Outdoor Skills Camp! Hone your survival skills while developing a strong connection to nature. Campers will acquire the techniques needed to survive being lost in the wilderness. Throughout the week, learn to track wildlife, how to use trail markers, administer first aid, and make fire. Our trained educators will introduce these and other basic wilderness skills using fun, hands-on activities.

Special Guest: Joshua Tree arborists join our 3-5th Grade campers for an exciting morning of tree climbing.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to test their outdoor skills against their camper.

No Camp on Thursday, June 19. The fee is discounted for this week. Camp fee $285. Pre- and post-camp $32/session.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

Dive into the wild world of wildlife! Up-close experiences with our animal ambassadors lead to discovery and exploration. Learn about wildlife native to the Lehigh River Watershed, their ecosystem, and how we can make a positive impact on their habitat.

Special Guest and Family Fun Friday Invite: Elmwood Park Zoo joins campers on Friday at 11am with some exotic animal ambassadors. Families are invited to attend the presentation.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

Curiosity, experimentation, and discovery- let your questions guide you during this week of STEAM Camp. Topics ranging from Biology and Ecology to simple Chemistry and Art are used to explore the preserve in a new way. Campers will be challenged to ask questions, collect data, and draw their own conclusions. End the week with a notebook full of knowledge and a greater appreciation for the world around you.

Special Guest: The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission will join our 6th grade plus campers.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to explore the Wildlands Science fair, where campers will share their discoveries from the past week.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5 REGISTER 6+

Water Camp! The tubes are inflated, ponds are alive with movement, and everything in and around the stream is waiting to be discovered. Join in a week of fun and educational games, experiments, and discovery.

This week: Focus on the properties of water through educational games and experiments. Learn about the importance of water to every living plant and creature.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to join in water games. Come prepared to get wet.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

The preserve comes alive with the help of our enchanted forest friends. Using the power of pretend play; follow the lead of woodland fairies as we explore, imagine and engineer the world around us.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm for a theatrical presentation featuring your favorite camper! PreK families will have their own magical visit with the fairies at 11:45am

REGISTER PREK REGISTER K-2

The environment, creatures, and adventures commonly found in video games are often inspired by nature. Using a gamer perspective, we will turn the preserve into a game board filled with quests and mysteries to discover.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm for a theatrical presentation featuring your favorite camper!

REGISTER 3-5

This week: Focus on how humans affect our waterways and things we can do to protect our Lehigh River Watershed.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to join in water games. Come prepared to get wet.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

Our 6th Grade campers will be challenged by the preserve, creating new geocaching trails, and learning wilderness survival skills.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to test their outdoor skills again their camper.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5 REGISTER 6+

This week: Focus on water’s key role in all living things. This week puts a strong emphasis on wildlife.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:30pm to join in water games. Come prepared to get wet. PreK families will have their water games at 11:45am.

REGISTER PREK REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5

Discover how knowledge and action can start a movement. Together we will learn how to adjust our simple everyday habits to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. With hands-on activities and experiments we will explore ways we can protect the environment we live in.

Special Guests: Local Ecowarriors will teach campers about what they do for the planet, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

A local ornithologist will join our 6th grade plus campers on Thursday for a bird banding demonstration.

Family Fun Friday Invite: Families are invited to the pavilion at 3:15pm to join in our end of summer campfire.

REGISTER K-2 REGISTER 3-5 REGISTER 6+

Questions about summer camp?

View our Frequently Asked Questions or contact:

Denise Bauer, Director of School Programs and Summer Camp: 610-965-4397 ext. 131
dbauer@wildlandspa.org

Arianna Kohler, Environmental Education Coordinator: (610) 965-4397 ext 152
akohler@wildlandspa.org

Work with us!

We’re seeking passionate, seasonal environmental educators and assistants.

APPLY

Summer Camps at Satellite Locations:

Wildlands Explorers

Get the perks of a more convenient summer camp by opting for a satellite location that is closer for you:
Hopewell Park (Center Valley, Upper Saucon Township) or
Ontelaunee Park (New Tripoli, Lynn Township)

Plus, extended hours are still available for satellite locations!

Unearth the thrill and beauty of nature found in forests, rivers, your local park, and your own backyard! Wildlands Conservancy is bringing you a week of exploration, experimentation, and creativity with the best parts of our summer camp. Activities will range from survival skills, wildlife, art, and science all wrapped up in a fun week at your local park.

Located at: 4695 W Hopewell Rd, Center Valley, PA 18034

REGISTER YOUR CAMPER

Located at: 7344 Kings Hwy, New Tripoli, PA 18066

REGISTER YOUR CAMPER

Bike & Boat Adventure Day Camps

Enjoy hands-on learning bout about local waterways and ecosystems.

Each day, our expert guides will take campers along the Lehigh River for an adventure you can only get with Wildlands Conservancy.

Join us to make memories that will naturally last a lifetime!

LEVELS

ALL Bike & Boat Adventure Camps: Just completed grades 6+

Campers must know how to ride a bike. No prior paddling or science experience is required.

FORMAT & FEES

$89/child/day

9 A.M. – 4 P.M.
No extended camp hours

Drop-off and pick-up:
Charles A. Brown Ice House
57 River St., Bethlehem

WHAT TO BRING

A reusable water bottle, lunch, and snacks.
A backpack or drybag, comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes for biking/paddling, and a change of clothes if desired.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

Pedal Through Nature:
Kick off the adventure with a guided bike ride along the scenic D&L Trail. Explore the Lehigh River’s ecosystem as you pedal past lush forests, vibrant wildlife, and historic landmarks, all while learning the importance of preserving natural spaces.

Paddle the Lehigh River:
Switch gears and hop into canoes for an exciting river paddling experience! Led by our outdoor recreation guides, campers will navigate the gentle currents of the Lehigh River, discover local wildlife, and practice paddling techniques.

Learn Outdoor Skills:
Throughout the day, campers will engage in hands-on activities like basic map reading, learning to identify wildlife tracks, fire building, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. These essential outdoor skills are infused into biking, paddling, and exploration activities to build confidence and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.

Teamwork & Adventure:
This camp isn’t just about learning skills—it’s about making memories, building friendships, and working together to tackle outdoor challenges like trail navigation and waterway exploration.

MORE INFO & REGISTER

Bike the Trail:
Start the day with a 4.5-mile bike ride along the historic D&L Trail, winding through beautiful scenery along the Lehigh River. Along the way, campers will stop to learn about watersheds, pollution prevention, and the interconnected ecosystems that depend on healthy waterways.

Paddle the River:
Hop into canoes and paddle the gentle waters of the Lehigh River. Guided by outdoor recreation experts, campers will observe the river’s biodiversity up close while learning paddling skills and exploring the relationship between river health and local wildlife.

Science on a River Island:
The highlight of the day takes place on an exclusive river island where campers will:

-Test Water Quality: Use tools to measure pH, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen to determine the river’s health.
-Conduct Macroinvertebrate Studies: Collect and identify aquatic critters like dragonfly nymphs, crayfish, and mayflies to assess the river’s ecosystem.
-Climate Change Exploration: Compare water temperatures in stagnant and flowing areas of the river, discussing how climate variability impacts water quality and ecosystems.
-Citizen Science: Record their findings and learn how to contribute to real-world environmental research projects.

Teamwork & Discovery:
Campers will work together to solve nature-based challenges, make observations, and think critically about environmental solutions. Whether analyzing data, navigating the river, or spotting wildlife, this day is all about collaboration and exploration!

MORE INFO & REGISTER

Bike the Trail:
Kick off the adventure with a 4.5-mile ride along the scenic D&L Trail. Campers will explore the river’s edge, learn about the ecosystems that thrive there, and build a connection with the natural beauty surrounding the Lehigh River.

Paddle the River:
Next, campers will hop into canoes and navigate the Lehigh River’s calm waters. Guided by experienced instructors, they’ll learn paddling techniques, how to read the river’s currents, and how to safely explore the waterways—key skills for any aspiring River Rat.

Snorkeling on a River Island:
Dive into the adventure on an exclusive river island! Campers will snorkel in safe, shallow waters, uncovering the river’s underwater world. They’ll spot fish, freshwater mussels, and other aquatic life that call the river home.

Macroinvertebrate Study:
While on the river island, campers will roll up their sleeves and become river scientists, collecting and studying macroinvertebrates like crayfish, mayflies, and dragonfly nymphs. These tiny creatures provide big insights into the river’s health and ecosystem.

Teamwork, Skills & Fun:
Throughout the day, campers will tackle challenges, build confidence, and make new friends—all while gaining the knowledge and skills that every true River Rat needs.

MORE INFO & REGISTER

Paddle to Wildlands Conservancy’s Freemans Island Preserve:
The adventure begins! Campers will paddle tandem canoes along the Lehigh River to reach Wildlands Conservancy’s secluded river island preserve- Freemans Island. Along the way they will gain valuable paddling skills and insight into river ecology. They’ll learn about:
-Water quality and conservation efforts to keep waterways healthy.
-The role of rivers in supporting biodiversity and human communities.

Island Exploration & Stewardship Challenges:
Once on the island, campers will dive into exciting, hands-on activities that showcase the importance of stewardship and habitat protection. Activities may include:
-Habitat Maintenance: Campers will work as a team to design and construct a model habitat for a specific species using natural materials.
-Pollution Patrol: Engage in an activity to locate and identify “pollutants” on the island and discuss how to prevent them in real-world scenarios.
-Citizen Science in Action: Conduct a macroinvertebrate water quality study and contribute findings to conservation efforts.

Teamwork & Leadership:
Through activities like these, campers will work collaboratively, practice leadership, and develop a sense of responsibility for the natural world.

Bike the Trail:
Once back at shore campers will take part in a 5-mile bike ride along the picturesque D&L Trail. Along the way, campers will stop to explore key conservation topics.

MORE INFO & REGISTER

Summer Camp Parent Checklist

-Please complete these important forms and bring them with you on the first day of your campers’ session!
-Make sure you have paid in full. Your child is not registered until full payment is received.
-Keep an eye on your email for your registration confirmation email.
-Pack all recommended camper items.
-Mark all of your child’s items with their full name.
-Talk with your child about all the WILD FUN they’re about to have!

PARENTAL INFORMATION PARENTAL AGREEMENT FORM FOOD ALLERGY FORM

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring this page on the quest for an answer? Our FAQ section might have what you’re looking for, including our Refund and Cancellation Policy!

If you’re unable to find your answer, please contact our Education department:

Denise Bauer, Director of School Programs and Summer Camp
610-965-4397 ext. 131 | dbauer@wildlandspa.org

Cancellation Policy
– Payment is due in full at the time of registration, any exceptions must be approved by Wildlands Conservancy staff
-Cancellations made at least 3 weeks before the start date of the program will receive a full refund. Cancellations made 8-20 days before the start
date will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made within a week of the start date will receive a 25% refund.
-If you cancel with less than 72 hours’ notice, your entire registration fee will be forfeited.
-An additional processing fee may be applied to some cancellations. Additional changes to the reservation date will incur a processing fee.
-In the event of a medical emergency and/or participant illness, a pro-rated refund will be issued only upon written request accompanied by a physician’s statement.
-There are no refunds issued for inclement weather. Full refunds are given for any program Wildlands Conservancy cancels.
-If a class is not full, a one-time reservation change can be accommodated.
-Wildlands Conservancy reserves the right to use discretion when issuing refunds.

Wildlands does not offer a registration discount for multiple weeks. We offer an automatic 10% discount through May 1. Simply add our Early Bird tickets to your shopping cart.

Please register your child for the grade they most recently completed. For example, if you child just completed 2nd grade, register them for the K-2 level.

Absolutely! Simply use the “Summer Camp” button from within the cart screen in the registration system to sign up for multiple summer camp weeks in one transaction.

Wildlands summer camp registration is only for full weeks of summer camp — no partial weeks or part-day options. If necessary for your family’s schedule, our team can accommodate late starts or early pick ups at the Air Products Environmental Education Center.

Yes! We love summer-camp friends! Log in to your portal to view your dashboard and select “view and update account numbers” and edit your child’s name, and enter the friend’s name under “my child wants to be in camp with.”

Yes, … To have your child added to the waitlist, use the link at the bottom of the page within the registration system or contact:
Denise Bauer, Director of School Programs and Summer Camp: 610-965-4397 ext. 131, dbauer@wildlandspa.org
Arianna Kohler, Environmental Education Coordinator at 610.965.4397 x152, akohler@wildlandspa.org

If you need to pick up your child early from camp, please give a note to the team member who escorts your child from the car at morning drop-off, and we will accommodate your early pick up at the Air Products Environmental Education Center.

Yes. All educators require a clear criminal background check, child abuse clearance, and FBI fingerprint check.