NPS kicks off free science summer camp program

Back for the third year in a row, the National Park Service’s Science Summer Camp provides activities for visitors and families looking to make education fun over the summer.

 Beginning June 28, this free program will be offered on six consecutive Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each week, attendees visit different sites within the park to enjoy hands-on science activities and learn about different park resources. Participants may attend as many or as few sessions as they would like.

 Though the content is targeted for youth ages 8 to 13, children of all ages are welcome to attend. These education programs also meet Next Generation Science Standards for grades three through five.

”Science Summer Camp builds a connection between participants and the natural and cultural resources found here in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area,” said Anna Grismer, education technician. “This program provides opportunities for families to learn about the area in an entertaining, immersive, and creative way.”

 The schedule for Summer Science Camp is as follows:

-  June 28 at Dingmans Falls Visitor Center: Learn about the secret superpowers native plants possess! Discover why the wide variety of plant life found at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is important for our environment.

 - July 5 at Peters Valley School of Craft: Do you love hide-and-seek? So do animals! Enjoy activities based on the remarkable characteristics of native animals and how they stay unseen.

 - July 12 at Kittatinny Point Visitor Center: How do you feel about after-school snacks? Aren’t they fun? They give you energy to play and do homework! How do you think animals get energy to play? Learn about ecology and the food web of native animals in a beautiful environment.

 - July 19 at the Hialeah Recreation Site: Did you know that the water you drink every day is the same water that dinosaurs drank over 65 million years ago? This is possible through the water cycle! Learn more about the amazing properties of water near the Delaware River.

 - July 26 at Walpack Center: There is a reason “you rock” is a compliment! Rocks are super cool! Learn how scientists examine the past by studying rock types and fossils.

 - August 2 at Milford Beach: “What we are is what we leave behind.” Protecting our natural resources is everyone’s responsibility, especially park rangers! The National Park Service preserves land for the enjoyment of future generations. Learn how you can help keep these parks safe!

 Visit  bit.ly/3zeVyaS for more details on the program and directions to each site.

For more information on Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area visit nps.gov/dewa; call the information desk at 570-426-2457; or visit Dingmans Falls Visitor Center (closed Tuesdays) from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.