Activities Calendar
Discovery Day Camp
REGISTRATION FOR 2024 DAY CAMPS IS LIVE
Day camps at Morrill Hall are hands-on, minds-on experiences where campers explore various natural history and science topics through engaging activities. Each camp is led by UNSM's educators, with potential opportunities to engage with our museum researchers and guest speakers.
Camps are offered for students who have completed kindergarten through 8th grade during the 2023-2024 school year.
Fall Break Day Camp
Paleobotany: Ancient & Modern Plants | October 14
Ages 9-11
9am - 4pm
Have you ever stopped to think; what was the environment like
in Nebraska 100 million years ago? For this fall break day camp,
campers will learn about paleobotany, the study of ancient plants
and environments. In the morning, we will travel back in time and
explore clues from plant fossils to discover how much our world
has changed. We will also learn about the intricacies of plant
fossils from one of our invertebrate paleontology curators. Then
in the afternoon we will examine the diversity of flowers, shrubs,
and trees that exist today.
This camp is best suited for ages 9-11.
Fall Phenology | October 15
Ages 9-11
9am - 4pm
Signs of autumn are all around us; leaves changing color, birds
and insects migrating, and other animals preparing to hibernate
for winter. But why does this happen every year? In this fall
break camp, campers will learn about Phenology (seasonal natural
phenomena) and how it affects the plants and animals in our outdoor
neighborhoods. Campers will also get to conduct a biodiversity survey
in the outdoor environment around the museum.
This camp is best suited for ages 9-11.
Remarkable Reptiles | October 11
Ages 6-8
9am - 4pm
Did you know Nebraska is home to 8 species of turtle, 10 species of
lizard, and almost 30 species of snake? For this fall break day camp,
campers will become herpetologists as they learn about the remarkable
reptiles that call Nebraska home. Campers will also get to learn about
ancient reptiles that used to rule the oceans and tower over other animals.
This camp is best suited for ages 6-8.
Day Camp FAQ
What is a typical camp like?
Each camp is slightly different, but may include interactive activities,
science exploration, art/craft projects, games, tours through the museum,
guest speakers, and possible opportunities to visit with other museum
researchers (dependent on camp topic and researcher availability).
Are lunch and snacks provided?
Depending on the length of the camp your child(ren) is attending, we
will provide one snack in the morning and afternoon. If your child(ren)
is attending a camp that runs from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., please send
them with a sack lunch that does not need to be refrigerated or
microwaved and is peanut-free.
What is the instructor/camper ratio?
Our camps max out at 20 students and there are two instructors per camp.
I have a child with special needs. Can they still participate?
We welcome all children to our programs. If your child has special needs,
please contact the education department prior to registration so we can
discuss any necessary accommodations to ensure a positive experience in camp.
May I enroll my child in a camp for an older age group?
No, campers must fall within the specified age category. Our curriculum
and daily activity levels are designed to meet the needs of the age groups
listed to ensure a positive experience for all campers. Camps are offered
for students who have completed kindergarten through 8th grade during the summer.
What if we arrive late for camp?
If you arrive after 9:00 a.m., please check in with Visitor Services
at the main entrance.
Do you offer any scholarships or discounts?
Camper scholarships or discounts are not available at this time.
However, we do offer half-day and two-day camps at different price points.
Members of the museum get a $20 discount.
Can my camper bring their cell phone in case I need to get ahold of them?
Electronic devices including cell phones and tablets owned by campers
are not allowed at our camp programs. If you need to contact your camper
during program hours, call the main museum line at (402) 472-2637.
Day Camp Policies
For more detailed information not included below, please refer to our Day Camp Information Packet.
Camp Photography Policy:
The museum may take photos during the camp and activities for purposes
of internal and external communications and/or promotions. A photo
release statement is included with registration, allowing you to opt
in or out of having your child photographed.
Refund Policy:
Camp space is limited, and all camp registrations are considered final.
Refunds or partial refunds will not be issued for any no-shows or missed
days. The University of Nebraska State Museum reserves the right to
cancel camps due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances,
in which participants will be notified and full refund will be issued.
