MetroParks offers free virtual nature camps

While things slowly begin to reopen, Erie MetroParks is maintaining a high level of caution when it comes to in-person programming, according to a news release.

This includes the annual summer Nature Camps, which the park district offers to ages 6-12 in June and July.

This year, Nature Camps are going virtual with an all-online format.

In a typical year, Nature Camps at Erie MetroParks are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., cost $20 per day per child for Erie County residents and can accommodate 20 participants per day, the release said.

Going virtual has allowed those limits to relax significantly, according to the release.

Within the first week of registration, over 125 children of all ages had signed up to participate, and there was no registration fee required.

Virtual Nature Camps will consist of emails sent directly from naturalists that include personalized videos, crafts, games and fun nature facts, the release said.

Campers also will have access to a private Facebook group where they can interact with Camp leaders and participate in group activities.

Each video and activity is designed to be do-atyou-own-pace and encourages campers to spend more time outside than in front of a screen.

Also, over 100 “swag bags” are being personally delivered to campers by park district staff.

These bags consist of a drawstring backpack filled with camp items like a water bottle, compass, magnifying glass, a kit for making a mason bee house and more.

Virtual Nature Camps will begin June 15 and continue through July.

Registration will remain open throughout the duration of the camps.