Summer Day Camp

Olbrich Summer Camps are a week-long exploration of the diverse communities of animals and plants living at Olbrich for children ages 7-12. Campers will learn from experts in horticulture and entomology, dive into the world of scientific journaling, create art inspired by nature, and connect with the natural world. Campers will have an opportunity to engage in activities in the Frautschi Family Learning Center, outdoor gardens, Bolz Tropical Conservatory, and the Children’s Kitchen Garden.

Camp days start at 9 am and end at 2:30 pm. Aftercare is available for 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm. During this time, campers can participate in outdoor games, explore, play, or relax in the Children’s Kitchen Garden. For other questions or concerns, please email [email protected]

All of our camps are now full for Summer 2024; please contact [email protected] to be put on a waitlist for other weeks of camp.

Garden Naturalist Camp

Ages 7-12

Anyone can be a garden naturalist! In this camp, young naturalists will explore the diverse animal and plant life at Olbrich and how it connects to their own lives through observation and reflection. Campers will engage in a variety of nature-based activities including plant and tend to seeds, create unique art, and record their discoveries and questions in journals to bring home. Join us for a week full of fun!

$300/$275 member

Week 1 (June 10-14) - FULL! Week 2 (June 24-28) - FULL!

Week 5 (August 5-9) - FULL! Week 6 (August 12-16) - FULL!

Entomologists in Training Camp

Ages 7-12

An entomologist is a scientist that studies insects, so if you are into critters that crawl, creep, and fly, this brand new camp is for you! We will explore pollination in the gardens, learn from bug experts, examine insects that call Olbrich home, create bug art, and even get special access to the Blooming Butterflies exhibit in the Bolz Conservatory! We will also be spending time in the Children’s Garden snacking on fresh food pollinated by bees and exploring all parts of the garden for critters. Observation and respect for all living things are key components of this camp, so join us with your scientist cap and enthusiasm to explore!

$325/$300 member

Week 3 (July 15-19) - FULL! Week 4 (July 22-26) - FULL!

Camp Information

Camp Snacks

Campers are encouraged to bring a snack for the afternoon. Please do not pack peanuts or food with peanut butter. Olbrich will provide snacks including fresh fruits and foods that avoid common allergens.

What to Bring

Please wear comfortable clothing that can get dirty and closed toe shoes. Please bring a water bottle, lunch (nothing that needs to be refrigerated or reheated), a snack, sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and a sweatshirt or rain jacket.

Camp Pricing

Garden Naturalist Camps: $300/$275 member

Entomologist in Training Camps: $325/$300 member

Medical Forms

Health History

After you register, you will be sent additional information including an Authorization to Administer Medication form.

Cancellation Policy

General Cancellation Policy - All cancellations must be made 6 weeks in advance to receive a refund minus a 20% processing fee. Cancellations made after this date are not guaranteed a refund.

Weather Info

Olbrich Summer Camps take place in the Frautschi Family Learning Center, outdoor gardens, Bolz Tropical Conservatory, and the Children’s Kitchen Garden. In the event of inclement or hazardous weather, all activities will be moved indoors. Campers will be informed of emergency procedures related to weather during the camp introduction on the first day. Campers should come prepared for light rain, hot temperatures, and cooler temperatures as we will try to continue with planned outdoor activities.

Writing Camps

Available to students entering grades 3-8 and 9-12

Each summer, The Greater Madison Writing Project, in partnership with Olbrich Botanical Gardens, hosts camps for young writers (entering grades 3-8) and high school writers (entering grades 9-12). With the guidance and support ofthe Greater Madison Writing Project Fellows and experienced teachers, participants use the beautiful environment of the outdoor gardens and tropical conservatory for inspiration for their writing. At the end of each camp, young writers will share their favorite pieces of writing with their families and friends at an evening celebration and to be published in an anthology. For questions or to register, please email [email protected].

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